Grammar News no 96 June 2008

grammar news Print Post PP344276/00024

Number 96 – June 2008

The Old Melburnian Cadet Catafalque Party mount in the Sanctuary in The Old Melburnians War Memorial Hall for the ANZAC Commemoration

Grammar News is published for the Melbourne Grammar School community.

Published by: The Development Office Melbourne Grammar School 355 St Kilda Road, Melbourne Victoria 3004 Telephone: (03) 9865 7555 Facsimile: (03) 9865 7577 Email: newsletter@mgs.vic.edu.au Edited by: Vanessa Whatmough Desktop Publishing: Drew Gamble Mailing and Distribution: Data Connection Photographs: Kevin Baker, Marc Bishop, Drew Gamble, James Grant, Sarah Jessup, Mark Leslie, Amanda Louey, Trevor Mein, Jennifer Pratten, Kylie Witt Front Cover: Students, staff and guests gather on the Wadhurst Oval and watch as the Hon John Brumby, MP, Premier of Victoria officially opens The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership on 7 April, the School’s 150th anniversary

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

In This Issue 4 From the School Council 5 From the Headmaster 6 News 11 Obituary 12 In Focus 14 Grimwade House 16 Wadhurst 18 Senior School 20 Sesquicentenary 24 Out and About 27 Professional Development 28 Boarding 29 The Grammar Foundation 30 The Old Melburnians 32 OMs Around the World 34 Community News 36 Friends of Grammar 38 Community Diary Dates 39 New Parents Welcome

From The Editor Welcome to the first edition of Grammar News for 2008.

This year is an incredibly special and busy year for the School as it celebrates its Sesquicentenary. To suitably acknowledge Melbourne Grammar’s 150 year history, the School has already held a number of memorable events, with many more on the calendar.

On April 7 (Melbourne Grammar’s Foundation Day), the Hon John Brumby, MP, Premier of Victoria, officially opened The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership. Many of you have toured the Centre during the Community Open Day and the Talents Committed Exhibition.

The School welcomes a number of new staff including Director of Admissions Julie Girdwood and Property Manager John Phillips. You can read about their first impressions of the School on page 8.

This year we will be producing two bumper editions of Grammar News, so please stay tuned for the November issue.

Vanessa Whatmough

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.

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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From the School Council a longstanding member of the Risk Management and Audit Committee where his medical expertise was most valuable, and served on the Building and Grounds Committee.

Michael Bartlett has accepted our offer to join the Council.

An Old Melburnian, with three boys at Grimwade, Michael has had a career in merchant banking and specifically in asset management. Michael also taught languages at Wadhurst from 1978 to 1981 and has recently returned to university for further study of Classical Greek.

Sport

Sandy Clark

The Sesquicentenary In 1958, my first year at the Senior School, I remember being part of the Centenary Service in St Paul’s Cathedral.

Fifty years on, in the Cathedral, the whole School, including past Headmasters, Chaplains and Council Chairmen celebrated our Sesquicentenary. It was a very stirring occasion presided over by the Archbishop, the Most Revd Dr Philip Freier and the Dean, the Very Revd David Richardson, the latter describing the Service as very emotional. The singing was magnificent. Incidentally David has recently been appointed to Rome, as the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Representative to the Holy See and Director of the Anglican Centre. On behalf of the Council and the whole School I thank David for his friendship and wise advice over the years.

Another grand occasion was the dinner for major donors in The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership, where the Headmaster surprised us all by singing, unaccompanied, a verse of ‘Ora et Labora’, the words of which were written by the Revd A W Tonge, MGS Chaplain 1906-1911. It is most pleasing that the new building has received praise from all quarters, including the students. At the dinner, the architect John Wardle described the building site, with views over the Domain, across the Wadhurst Oval, and back to the bluestone and the Witherby Tower, as the most challenging and exciting, of his career.

It is fitting that, in Paul Sheahan’s last year as Headmaster, the First XI, led by Charles Shaw has won the APS title, our first cricket Premiership in 32 years. Undefeated throughout an arduous season, victory was assured before the last round of matches.

The present strength of Grammar sport in all age groups, on the cricket field, the running track, the river, the pool or on the tennis and volley ball courts, is a credit, not only to those competing, but also to the dedicated coaching staff.

Sandy Clark Chairman

School Council 2008 The Most Reverend Dr Philip L Freier Reverend Dr Richard S Treloar Mr N (Ross) Adler AC Mr Peter M Beaumont Mr Michael E Bartlett Mr C G (Sandy) Clark Dr Barbara A Fary OAM Dr Vince W J FitzGerald Ms Louise M Jenkins Professor Richard G Larkins AO Mrs Lelde R McCoy Mr J (Bruce) Parncutt Mr Ian M Vaughan

Council Changes After being a Director for nine years, Associate Professor Peter Danne retired from the Council in January. Always a deep, and at times provocative, thinker, Peter’s wide-ranging contributions to Council debate will be missed. He was also

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Headmaster Mr A Paul Sheahan Secretary Mr David A H Temple

From the Headmaster Sesquicentenary and Milestones In a world where we are all encouraged to grow up a tad faster than we should, it is right and proper to observe milestones along the way and to take our time.

In terms of change, from birth we are all probably on an exponential learning curve in which changes happen so fast in infancy and childhood; they slow down through adolescence (with a few ‘spikes’ here and there, it must be admitted!); and then they assume a comfortable, walking pace through late adulthood. If the rhythm is upset for any reason, though, all sorts of discontinuities and difficulties can arise. The child that is plunged into adolescence before its time finds social interactions taxing; the child who experiments with things normally associated with adulthood comes to grief all too often; and, of course, no-one wants to be pushed too quickly into old age, though to attempt to avoid the inevitability leads to some curious anomalies, too!

Celebration of proper transitions to the next phase of life is important. We have ceremonies that signal those movements, sometimes referred to as ‘rites of passage’, and denial of those rites of passage can have a significant effect on the human need to deal properly with, say, childhood before moving on to adolescence and then adolescence to adulthood. One contention of the American poet, philosopher and author, Robert Bly, in his seminal work, Iron John1, is that the American male of the late twentieth century has suffered from absentee fathers, thereby denying the emerging adult son an insight into maleness and manhood before tackling that difficult stage of life. In a nutshell, Bly talks about the importance of initiation rites but that is a story for another day!

The celebration of the Sesquicentenary – Melbourne Grammar’s 150th anniversary – is another of those milestones that must not be overlooked. Whilst not wishing to wallow in nostalgia and recognising that not all that happened in the past was good, it is important for the institution to step back, applaud its most significant achievements and ponder what it was that made the place so good.

It is also a salutary exercise to ponder the things that have not stood the test of time and to jettison them rather than hang on grimly “because that’s the way we’ve always done it”!

In recognising the time-honoured and valuable traditions, we will see a veritable cavalcade of MGS occasions throughout the year that helps us to remember that we are all part of a rich and complex mosaic.

1 Robert Bly (1990), Iron John: A Book About Men, Addison-Wesley, ISBN 0201517205 : 9780201517200

2008 student leaders, from back left: Wadhurst Vice Captain Dane Pineau, Headmaster Paul Sheahan, School Captain Charles Shaw, middle: Wadhurst Captain Chris Lam, School Vice Captain Luther Ellis, bottom: Grimwade House Co-Captains Ellie Grigoriadis and Peter McIntosh

We were delighted that the Old Melburnian, the Hon John Brumby, MP, Premier of Victoria, declared open officially The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership on Monday 7 April, the first day of Term II. This physical structure draws together in a most impressive manner all of the elements that support and enhance an academic education as well as encouraging emerging adults to engage with some of the preliminary stages of what it means to be a leader and what can be achieved in a community sense by the proper exercise of leadership. I am hoping it becomes a centre in which students can joust with ideas and explore interesting byways that might otherwise ‘disappear into the ether’.

Happily, students, often the sternest critics, have given the Peck Centre the ‘thumbs up’, too.

It was right and proper to turn the opening into a real event that will live in the memory.

So, milestones are worth recording, if for no other reason than to draw down the curtain on one phase in life and to raise it on the next.

Paul Sheahan Headmaster Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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News Sesquicentenary Celebration Ball Over 900 members of the Grammar community joined together for a fabulous evening to honour Melbourne Grammar’s distinguished past and vibrant future at the School’s Celebration Ball at Crown Palladium on 10 May 1

School Council Chairman Sandy Clark, MCs Stephen Phillips and Jennifer Keyte, and Headmaster Paul Sheahan

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Grimwade House parents, from left, standing: Helen Argyrou, Peter Lewis, Susan Spring, Nicole Plummer, Elizabeth Mooney, sitting: Suanne Lewis, Adam Cole, Charlotte Cole, Jim Mooney

Celebration Ball Committee (left-right): Wani Wall, Mary-Jane Bulford, Annie Hayward, Kirsty Russell, Deborah Thomas, Mandy Hatfield, Penny Fowler, Winonah Cunningham, Nancy Bassett, Su-lin Loh

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Crown Palladium

Rob Glaesemann and the Young Lions

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Celebration Ball Program

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Whole School Cathedral Service A sea of navy blue swept across St Kilda Road as Melbourne Grammar students from all year levels strode from the bluestone classrooms to St Paul’s Cathedral for the Sesquicentenary Service on 13 March.

The Service was one of the first celebrations of the School’s Sesquicentenary calendar. Students joined past and present staff and members of the School Council to recognise the School’s Anglican foundations and give thanks for the rich tapestry of people that have made Melbourne Grammar the school it is today.

Melbourne Grammar’s Senior Chaplain, the Revd Dr Ron Noone said the Service was a moving experience for all who attended.

“From the beginning of the fanfare the sense of occasion grew as the procession entered the beautiful cathedral.

There is something very special about gathering the whole school together to celebrate,” said the Revd Dr Noone.

“The students and staff sense that they are part of something good and valuable and their participation in the service was so forthcoming and enjoyable. The sense of belonging to the community was very strong from the little preps right through to the senior boys,” he said.

Attendees were treated to a special welcome to the Mother Church of the Diocese by the Dean of Melbourne, the Very Revd David Richardson. It was one of the last services for the Dean, before taking up a new and prestigious appointment as the Director of the Anglican Centre in Rome.

The congregation was captivated when the Archbishop of Melbourne and President of the School Council the Most Revd Dr Philip Freier made his address. As noted by the Revd Dr Noone, the audience’s enthralment continued through the prayers of thanksgiving provided by the Grimwade House, Wadhurst and Senior School captains.

“The students who read the prayers did so with great assurance and confidence and the rousing singing was a delight to hear,” he said.

The Service was designed to ‘give God the glory’ for all those whose insight, talent and dedication has enabled Melbourne Grammar to be a flourishing school 150 years after it was founded, and it was clear from the many proud faces that this was achieved.

As the Service concluded and students followed the procession through the Great West Door, the Cathedral once again resumed its majestic silence.

Students from all year levels come together in the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral for the School’s Sesquicentenary Service

My perspective What a spectacle it was, over 2,000 members of the MGS community all crowded within the high walls of St Paul’s Cathedral. Celebratory ambience filled the room, as the students of Grimwade House, Wadhurst and the Senior School engaged in song and prayer. It was a rare opportunity for the three campuses to attend an event as one school, and it was very entertaining. As the Most Revd Dr Philip Freier, the Archbishop of Melbourne, addressed the church, there were at least two Prep students who made trips to the toilet and one that broke out into random applause, much to the delight of the senior boys.

It was the School’s first opportunity to celebrate the Sesquicentenary year, and it was a brilliant success. The logistics of having over a thousand people walk to the church may have seemed daunting, however, every student was aware of the significance of the day and were clearly proud to represent themselves in a respectable manner. I personally thought the event could not have projected the School’s image and rich history in any greater fashion. It will be marvelled upon in the years to come.

Luther Ellis School Vice Captain Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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News

Property Manager John Phillips and Director of Admissions Julie Girdwood

First Impressions In 2008, Melbourne Grammar welcomed new Director of Admissions Julie Girdwood and Property Manager John Phillips. Both spoke with Grammar News about their first impressions of the School and what they hope to achieve in their new roles.

Where did you work prior to taking up your position at Melbourne Grammar?

John: This year has already started out and will continue to be an enjoyable and challenging one, getting to know staff and committee members along with programming maintenance and progressing the minor and major capital works projects with minimal disruption to the day to day running of the School and Sesquicentenary events as they unfold.

What challenges lie ahead for this year?

Julie: For over 14 years I was employed at Tintern Schools, commencing in the Development office for a short time and progressing to the position of Registrar, which has stood me in great stead for the role of Director of Admissions at Melbourne Grammar.

John: Prior to coming to MGS I was a Senior Consultant with Coomes Consulting Group project managing residential developments. Previous to that position I was the Property and Development Manager for the Portland House Group for 10 years. I also had a two year period contracted to the Moira Shire Council managing the capital works program and assisting them with infrastructure development. The combined experience of these roles in property management and project management on a wide range of both small and large building and civil construction projects has been a good precursor to the MGS building maintenance and capital works program.

How have you found 2008 in your new roles so far?

Julie: I am thoroughly enjoying the role and the demands it brings. Everyone has been tremendously welcoming and it is a delight to be part of such a professional staff.

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Julie: As the year progresses, the Scholarship Program and Assessment Testing are now completed and School tours are well underway. I have had the opportunity of meeting new families and those already in the School community which is particularly enjoyable, and look forward to building relationships with the whole School community.

John: We are currently working on three major projects including the upgrade to the Grimwade House Upper Primary Precinct, the old Morris Library and Coleman Room refurbishment and the car park under the Steele Oval, all due to start later this year.

What are you looking forward to most at Melbourne Grammar?

Julie: Being my first year, there will no doubt be challenges, but I look forward to meeting them head on and moving ahead. I am delighted to be part of the continued success of Melbourne Grammar; enjoying the hard work and all that comes with it.

John: I am looking forward to getting to know the staff better, and implementing the building projects on the 10 year capital works program that includes some exciting upgrades of the School’s facilities.

New Staff in 2008 Standing (L-R): Eva Konopcik, John Phillips, Steve Draper, Justin McNamara, Tim Angus, Roger Patterson, Dean Triplett, Larry Cocks, Rebekka Braun, Sarah Neghiche, Kate Olsen, Robert Bater, Donna Gordon, Sara Pacini, James Roberts, Headmaster Paul Sheahan Sitting (L-R): Rita Austin, Christine Andrzejewski, Sonia Wilson, Shelley Cole, Lyndal Hancock, Amber Dowd, Frances Eames, Debbie McGee, Hermione Skadiang, Sophie Zeglinas, Violet Hari, Vanessa Whatmough, Julie Girdwood, Kat Brennand

Farewell to Marita Melbourne Grammar bid farewell to one of its longest serving and most loved staff members last term, as Marita O’Keefe left Grimwade House to pursue the next stage of her life and career. Marita was on the staff at Grimwade House for 25 years in roles that included Classroom Teacher, Head of Art and, most recently, Deputy Head.

Marita said a few words of thanks to the School at a farewell assembly attended by staff and students: “Life at Grimwade House has been life at its best for me, with all the challenges that come with such a robust community. I have felt privileged to have been part of this great School.”

“In education both the teachers and students learn and I have learned so much from our children. I take with me great memories of many students and I always love meeting up with former students and hearing about their lives after Grimwade House.”

“I trust that you will all – adults and children alike – continue to explore possibilities, to challenge your thinking and expand your horizons, to imagine the unimaginable.”

Former staff member Marita O’Keefe receives an elaborate farewell from Grimwade House students and staff

Marita has taken up a new position at the Breast Cancer Network of Australia as Community Events Manager. Marita will be sorely missed by her many colleagues and students and Melbourne Grammar wishes her the best of luck in her new role and future endeavours.

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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News Trent Croad visits Wadhurst On Wednesday 23 April, Hawthorn backman Trent Croad came to speak to the Year 7 football players. He retold the story of his excitement in being drafted at number three in the 1997 AFL draft as a 17 year-old from De La Salle College.

Shortly after being drafted, he played his first game against Collingwood at the MCG in front of an 80,000 strong crowd.

This was very lucky for him because he supported Hawthorn when he was young. His story was a reminder to those of us who hope to one day play in the AFL that the reality may not be all that far away!

Trent told us about how he was traded to Fremantle after he had broken his finger following Hawthorn’s preliminary final loss to Essendon. He stayed at Fremantle for two years before he was traded back to Hawthorn for what he hopes will be the rest of his career. After he had spoken about his career we asked him some questions about his experiences in football.

Language Assistants Melbourne Grammar’s German Language Assistant this year is Rebekka Braun, who comes from Bielefeld, a town in central northern Germany. Together with fellow Language Assistants Pei-Chen Chung (Japanese), Sarah Neghiche (French) and Gracie Ge (Chinese), Rebekka assists students with their language studies and offers great insight into the culture and customs of her home country.

Rebekka has completed the equivalent of a Bachelor of Education at the University of Köln, and is a qualified teacher of Special Education and has a rich background in teaching and interacting with children of all ages. As a child, she performed in a youth circus and in later years was a mentor for the younger circus performers. She has worked in respite care for disabled youth, delivering activity programs and looking after them for periods of time, which enabled their carers to take a short break.

Rebekka has also accompanied students on holiday camps to places as far away as Turkey and all over Europe, and

German Language Assistant Rebekka Braun

Hawthorn Football Club star Trent Croad, rear centre, causes excitement at Wadhurst during a recent visit

In the end we went out on to the Wadhurst Oval, where Trent showed us some of the training drills that Hawthorn do after a game. It was very interesting to know what drills they do. Hopefully, they might also help us to recover from a big match.

Trent Croad was really good and I’m sure the Year 7 football players enjoyed listening to him talk about his career as an AFL footballer.

James Permezel Year 7 Student 10

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

throughout her studies has travelled to the Alps in the south of Germany to conduct youth holiday programs.

This is Rebekka’s second visit to Australia. In 2001, she spent six months here on a work and travel visa, during which she did various jobs including volunteer work on organic farms. Her first visit introduced her to the carefree and spontaneous way of approaching life in Australia, and it is this that lured her back for a closer look at our culture. This time around, Rebekka has her sights set on discovering what our West Coast and Tasmania have to offer. She is also keen to soak up all the different opportunities offered at MGS. Kylie Witt Head of German

Obituary Tim Gates 1952 – 2008 The start to the School’s Sesquicentenary year could not have been worse with the tragic loss of Tim Gates’ life in a surfing accident at Fairhaven in early January. It has been noted elsewhere that there is a stark irony that he could lose his life in the water having spent so much time in it over his 55 years. Tim Gates was an outstanding member of Melbourne Grammar School’s staff having worked with students of all ages throughout his 25 years at the School.

His early involvement was as Science Teacher, Sports Coach and Activities Coordinator at Wadhurst followed by a spell at Senior School teaching Biology and Middle School Science before he took up the position as Warden, Robert Knox Camp Woodend, where he would serve with distinction for 15 years.

Gatesy, as he was affectionately known by all, was a born teacher and seemed to have a natural rapport with students which he exemplified both within and outside the School.

He was an inspirational figure in the lifesaving movement winning a string of state and national championships and was also a member of the gold medal winning Board Team at the World Lifesaving Championships in the United States in 1984/85.

Tim Gates exhibited a range of endearing qualities - he was strong, courageous, disciplined and he was also a meticulous planner. His greatest impact at MGS was undoubtedly at Woodend where he not only reviewed and developed the outdoor education program on a continuous basis but he also maintained his unbridled enthusiasm for the importance of what he was doing throughout that time. He introduced a number of innovations to the Woodend program including the ropes course, the extension of overnight camping arrangements and even the introduction of archery under his strict supervision.

everyone with whom he came in contact. Suffice to say Tim Gates made a magnificent contribution to Melbourne Grammar School and the wider community; he will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

David Temple Bursar

Tim also showed his innovative qualities when the bushfire risks of 2006 resulted in the suspension of the Woodend program for Term I by introducing an alternative experience at Fairhaven Surf Lifesaving Club to develop and enhance the students’ skills in surf, water and an array of beach activities.

As the Headmaster said earlier this year, every student who went on camp at Woodend, or Fairhaven for that matter, took something valuable from the courses conducted by Tim Gates. In all, approximately 8,000 boys and girls benefited from the experience of Gatesy’s outdoor education program.

He was able to stimulate, encourage and develop students’ confidence in a range of activities. Little wonder that so many of his charges granted him “legend” or “hero” status.

Tim Gates was an outstanding man in every respect teacher, mentor, husband, father, friend - and with his infectious enthusiasm he left an indelible imprint on

The Grammar community gathers to honour the life and achievements of former staff member Tim Gates

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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In Focus VCE 2007 Results Melbourne Grammar School congratulates our 2007 Year 12 cohort on their outstanding results in the VCE. This group of students worked hard over their school years and their efforts have resulted in outstanding results. All of our students satisfactorily met the requirements of the VCE and for many of them gaining high scores meant they were offered their first preference course.

nation. Sixty-five students (33%) achieved a score of 95 or better which means they are in the top 5% of the state/ nation, furthermore 47% of our students are in the top 10% of the state/nation with an ENTER of 90 or above. Our median ENTER score was 89.45. These indeed are excellent figures and build on the excellent performance of the class of 2006.

Three of our students – Simon Green, Jack Hywood and Stuart Watson – achieved the highest possible ENTER score of 99.95. All three students have been active participants in the cultural life of Melbourne Grammar School. They demonstrate that active involvement in a very wide range of School co-curricular activities can enrich a student’s character and also help them to maintain their focus on their studies.

These students have acted as role models on sporting fields, in Houses, on theatre and musical stages and public speaking forums.

Studies have found that factors such as intelligence levels, family background, socio-economic status and attitude to education all contribute to how VCE students perform. I congratulate our students, their teachers and their parents who have worked so hard over the past years to get the very best results that they can. It is important to remember, though, that success at school should not be judged solely by what ENTER score a student receives. As long as each student has tried his best, then no matter the number, that score represents a victory too. Some of our students may not have achieved scores in the 90s or 80s and yet we are very proud of their results as they reflect their best efforts.

The VCE results alone do not indicate the measure of the person; that will be determined by their character and by their actions.

The 2007 results illustrate the commitment of the students and the very high professionalism of the teaching staff.

Daniel McCoppin Senior School Curriculum Coordinator

VCE English success Past student Jack Hywood (OM 2007) celebrates his ENTER score of 99.95 with Director of Teaching and Learning Chris Bradtke and Head of English Stephen Dessants

Fourteen students achieved 18 study scores of 50 out of 50 in nine individual studies. Congratulations go to: Alexander Booth (English), Thomas Coish (Studio Arts), Simon Green (English and Physics), Alistair Haskett (Classical Societies & Cultures and English), William Hatfield (Mathematical Methods), Simon Hoy (Chemistry and English), Jack Hywood (Chemistry), Charles Korn (Information Technology – Software Development), Thomas Meredith (English), Edgar Myer (Literature), Matthew Newton (National Politics), Andrew Oaten (English), Thomas Smith (English and Literature) and Stuart Watson (English).

More generally, 25 students achieved scores of 99 or better, which places them in the top 1% of all students in the state/

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Melbourne Grammar School once again topped the list of Victorian schools that achieved perfect VCE English study scores, with eight students accomplishing the great feat in 2007.

Alex Booth, Simon Green, Alistair Haskett, Simon Hoy, Thomas Meredith, Andrew Oaten, Thomas Smith and Stuart Watson each received perfect 50 study scores. In addition, Thomas Smith and Stuart Watson were awarded Premier’s Prizes as the top English students in the state – two of 10 such awards offered in Victoria.

The high scores in English and ESL extended right across the board, with 49 per cent of students achieving a study score of 40 or more, and 91.4 per cent achieving scores of 30 or more.

The 2007 results were the latest in what has been a stellar history for Melbourne Grammar’s English department; the School also achieved the highest number of VCE English 50 study scores in 2006 and 2004 with 10 students reaching the ultimate goal.

Student Destinations

2007 Offers by Course Agriculture 1 Art and Design

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Arts/Humanities 50 Aviation 2 Biomed/Health Sciences Built Environment #

4 23

Business 49 Computing/Information Technology

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Education 2 Engineering 17 Law

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Medicine 11 Music 1 Physiotherapy 1 Science 13 Sport/Fitness 5 Tourism/Hospitality 4 # Includes Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Construction Management and Property courses. Also includes offers to the new University of Melbourne Environments course.

Note: Many students are commencing courses that span more than one academic discipline. In the published figures, both areas of a double degree/dual award are included. Consequently, there may appear to be a discrepancy between the total numbers of offers by institution and the total numbers under areas of study.

2007 Offers by Institution Australian Catholic University Deakin University

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LaTrobe University

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Monash University

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RMIT University

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Swinburne University of Technology University of Ballarat University of Melbourne

3 1 88

Victoria University

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Interstate Universities

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Overseas Universities

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The staff of Melbourne Grammar’s Careers Centre would like to congratulate the ‘Class of 2007’ for its excellent VCE results. There is enormous variety among the individual student choices and these young men are to be commended on the thought and planning that most of them put into their tertiary and career choices – even if some worked on the ‘Just in Time’ principle!

Melbourne Grammar School alumni will be represented at most Victorian universities as well as a significant number of interstate and overseas universities, technical and further education institutes and private colleges.

Melbourne Grammar students completing the VCE in 2007 were part of the first cohort of students to contemplate the new ‘Melbourne Model’ for courses at the University of Melbourne. Under this model, entry to a number of professional programs such as Law, Architecture, Property and Construction is no longer available to school leavers.

Students must undertake an undergraduate degree (sometimes with prescribed study areas) before applying to complete the professional program via a post-graduate degree. Medicine and other Health Science courses will follow this model from 2009 entry. Given the traditionally strong interest in courses at the University of Melbourne, it is interesting to look at the breakdown of offers that resulted from student preferences. The popularity of the University of Melbourne courses remained strong with 88 students receiving offers.

Business and Arts/Humanities courses were once again the most strongly represented among student offers. The largest number of students for many years received offers for Medicine courses (12 offers with 11 accepted) while Law offers were down considerably on previous years. This last situation appears to be largely due to the changes at the University of Melbourne with many students preferring to take up offers in ‘New Generation’ degrees and then seek places in post-graduate Law rather than seek Law places elsewhere.

I wish all of our ‘Class of 2007’ well on the myriad of pathways upon which they are now embarking.

Frank Thompson Director of Career Development

TAFE 14 Independent Tertiary Colleges

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Note: Many students apply for a range of both Commonwealth Supported Places and fee-paying places through VTAC. Consequently, several students receive an offer of each type. In assembling the above tables we have assumed (unless informed otherwise by the student) that the student has accepted the offer which was placed higher on his preferences.

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Grimwade House the students by Lewis’ example, how a practising artist records his ideas and reflects on his practice.

Lewis made works on paper and some small paintings, in much the same way as he recorded people and surroundings when he accepted a commission to go to the Middle East as the Australian War Memorial’s official artist in 2003. He selected the subject matter, people and places as representative images of Grimwade House in Melbourne Grammar School’s Sesquicentenary year.

We are hoping to publish a little book of these drawings, as a memento of this important year in the life of the School.

Jan Rizzo Art Teacher

Year 6 Leadership Conference

Grimwade House students are intrigued as artist-in-residence Lewis Miller sketches Harleston

Artist-in-Residence Every year we are lucky enough to be given the opportunity to have an artist-in-residence work at Grimwade House, as part of our Visual Arts program.

Melbourne artist Lewis Miller exhibits with Australian Galleries in Collingwood, trained at the Victorian College of the Arts and has established a successful career as one of Australia’s foremost figurative and portrait painters. He has been shortlisted for the Archibald Prize 14 times, winning in 1998 with his portrait of fellow artist Allan Mitelman. We were really pleased and very excited that he agreed to spend a two week residency at Grimwade House.

Lewis was warmly welcomed at a Monday morning Assembly and interviewed by our Art Captains Sonia Mackie and Kris Amato. At an afternoon event, parents and other interested people had the opportunity to meet Lewis and hear him speak a little about his work.

While he didn’t teach formal classes, the aim of the residency was to promote drawing and to demonstrate to

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Leadership conjures many thoughts and is at the core of what we do everyday. Leadership requires facilitating positive change. As a leader you need to be able to motivate, to inspire and to make morally courageous decisions.

The Year 6 students at Grimwade House participated in a Leadership Conference which challenged their view of leadership through discussion and hands-on workshops.

The Conference was launched in The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership.

Melbourne Grammar’s Director of Leadership Polly Flanagan opened the Conference and challenged the students to explore the definition of ‘Excellence’ and its connection with leadership. Don Elgin, a Para-Olympian, then addressed the students. Don is a gifted individual who has an amazing ability to challenge students to extend themselves. He has many mantras such as: “give everything a go” and “try your hardest”, however, the one that will remain with many of our students is: “If you can’t win, make the other person break the record!”

A leadership forum consisting of Headmaster Paul Sheahan, newsreader Jennifer Keyte, School Captain Charles Shaw and School Vice Captain Luther Ellis presented their ideas of leadership. It provided a cross section of views and highlighted to our students the ways in which they could be a leader within the Grimwade House community as well as in later life.

Climate change and sustainability are key words in young people’s lives. Tracey Curro presented the idea that to be a leader in environmental sustainability you have to believe in what you do, educate others and be a role model.

A highlight of the Leadership Conference was the Leadership Breakfast. Students visited cafés in small groups to discuss

Welcome to Prep

The first day of Prep is a day to forge friendships and become excited about learning for students Roy West and Lara Natrass

The first day in Prep is a day to remember for students and parents alike. This special day marks the end of a long wait; the time has arrived and the children are ready to start school. It is also the beginning of a long, happy association with Melbourne Grammar School.

Our Prep children visit their classroom the day before school officially commences to familiarise themselves with the environment and meet their classroom teacher. Although the visit is short and sweet it is significant as it is the first time the children wear the distinctive MGS school uniform and many a photo is taken on the steps outside Harleston.

Prep student India Francis looks forward to meeting her new class

why power is so important to some people, what influences the decisions leaders make and whether a leader is born or made. The discussion at each breakfast was incredible in its depth and passion and varied ideas and perspectives.

Workshops at Grimwade House focussed on team work, cooperation, resilience and cyber bullying. Robyn Treyvaud, a world leader in cyber bullying and digital citizenship, worked with all students to discuss their role as a leader when using the internet, mobile phone and email.

Throughout the Conference the students refined their ideas of leadership and how it relates to them as individuals.

Leadership really means doing the right thing in the right place at the right time. I’m sure the Year 6 students will have many opportunities throughout their lives to be leaders.

Prue Petsinis Head of Upper Primary

On the first official day of school, Grimwade House is abuzz with excitement. After a brief time settling in, parents depart and children begin to get to know their new classmates.

Activities are planned which encourage children to feel comfortable in their new surroundings and help them discover the routines of the School day.

Throughout the morning the children stop for their fruit snack and take a tour to see where their Music, Art, Library and Chinese lessons will be. A highlight of the tour is always the visit to the PE Centre and the swimming pool! Recess is taken at an earlier time from the rest of the school to give the children an opportunity to get their bearings in the Junior Primary playground. Specialist teachers visit the classes and join in the activities with the children in a relaxed, informal way.

The first days of Prep are busy and exciting – a time for us to plant the seeds for a love of learning, a positive sense of self and a feeling of belonging to a new community.

Leonie Tamblyn Head of Junior Primary Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Wadhurst What a sign The art students in 8 Cain 1 were looking for a way to make a statement to the community that Melbourne Grammar School was celebrating a very special birthday this year – its 150th.

Year 8 students Matthew Howard and Lamuel Cheung paint signs to mark the School’s Sesquicentenary

While the students suggested ‘writing in the air‘ was the most powerful way to get the message across, they agreed that the next best thing was to make a large freestanding sign stating ‘MGS 150’. So the students set to work designing, drawing, cutting, sanding, gluing, screwing and finally painting the individual shapes that made up their artistic statement.

The signs made their debut as the backdrop for the Opening Ceremony of The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership on 7 April and now reside next to the Centre as a reminder of the School’s special anniversary.

Trish Langton Art Coordinator

Circus at School If you have ever worried about your son’s obsession with his computer, then why not develop his interest in circus skills, so that if he does run off to join the circus, at least he might actually get paid!

Phil Melgaard, a Circus Arts Teacher, spent two days working with classes at the end of Term I teaching the students juggling, plate spinning, ‘diablo’, uni-cycling and how to walk on stilts! However, the most important lesson learnt was that ‘trying is good’.

Wadhurst Art Teacher Patricia Langton introduced me to Phil when she was involved in a Circus Arts in-service at Zart Art 16

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Visiting Circus Arts Teacher Phil Melgaard teaches students the fine art of plate spinning

in Box Hill. There, you enter a world where creating art and making crafts is made easy for you and no matter how you fare, it is so rewarding. We even learnt, and then taught the boys to make their own juggling balls. Producing crafts for a few dollars makes a healthy alternative to watching screens all day!

The Discover Wadhurst afternoon was abuzz with excitement as hundreds of children and those young at heart joined Phil and our students. Clowns were painted, scarves were tossed and there was much giggling as children watched their parents try their hand. Troupes of Commedia D’Elle Arte actors from the 8 Cain 2 Drama class also performed scenes but found that the crowd would not throw money…never mind, we’ll work a bit harder on our busking and be more courageous (or outrageous) next time.

Your son will not miss out as Phil will return in Semester 2 so that the remaining classes will also learn Circus Skills. We intend that this work becomes part of the Physical Education program as we integrate the areas of Art, Drama and Sport.

After all, fitness, performing and creativity should be fun!

Fiona Mackenzie Wadhurst Drama Coordinator

Marine Excursions By using the marine environments around Queenscliff and Sorrento as a classroom, Wadhurst students are exposed in an exciting way to a variety of areas of scientific study. They are given the opportunity to recognise science in situations they may not have expected and they see that some things need a range of intellectual skills to explain them.

Science is a discipline of discovery. It observes what happens around it and attempts to explain what it sees.

It strives for understanding through challenging these explanations. In doing this, new knowledge is generated and deeper understandings are formed. This process assumes that knowledge is not yet rigidly defined and that we have many gaps that need to be filled.

The pursuit of that knowledge takes place on many frontiers: in the laboratory, in remote areas, in space, in the mind.

In fact, scientific exploration takes place whenever an inquisitive mind observes something interesting and pursues an understanding of it. To many students it seems that the physical barriers of a classroom suggest that there are limits to our knowledge and that understanding is best pursued within its four walls. Given this, it is vital that students of Science get away to explore, to generate knowledge for themselves and to develop their own understandings.

Taking a leadership role in learning should not be left to the classroom teacher. For some time now, Wadhurst students have left the familiarity of their classrooms to taste Science in the field.

Year 8 students are given the opportunity to experience the demands and thrills of surfing. This allows the boys to be in amongst the various wave phenomena to which they are introduced in class. Experiencing the effects of colliding waves is great fun and it allows the boys to connect what they have been told in the classroom. It also gives an understanding of wave action that the boys can build upon if they select Senior School Physics. The equipment provided and the skill of the instructors allows everyone to experience some level of success. The activity also provides lasting memories and stories of achievements that are sure to become more heroic as the years pass.

Much time is spent in the classroom discussing food chains, food webs, physiological adaptations of organisms and the effect of habitats on the organisms that live in marine environments. Visiting marine habitats and observing some of the organisms previously discussed adds depth to the understanding of these things for all students.

The boys are guided through intertidal zones and are introduced to a huge variety of organisms that previously they would not have noticed. The expert staff explain the characteristics of the various plants and animals and the

The rock pools of Queenscliff and Sorrento offer students hands-on Science experience to complement their classroom learning

boys develop a sense of how these all link together to create a sustainable marine habitat. They also see what adaptations organisms have made to survive in the environment in which they are found. Mirroring this activity is the snorkelling that takes place at either Portsea pier or at Pope’s Eye. The special equipment they use to help them navigate around these locations often mimics physical features of marine organisms. This adds another layer to the experience in that the boys are reminded how unsuited they are for survival in these particular habitats.

Through these excursions, students gain new skills and they do enjoy themselves. Of course, gathering knowledge and developing understanding should be exciting.

Mark Coleman Wadhurst Science Coordinator

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Senior School

The Senior School Quad makes the perfect backdrop for Shakespeare’s Othello, performed here by Melbourne Grammar and Melbourne Girls Grammar students

Othello At the end of February, Melbourne Grammar’s three performances of Othello played to packed audiences in the Quad. Othello was played by Year 11 student Eric Gardiner, who spent an hour in make-up every night in order to become the noble Moor undone by jealousy. Eric brought a powerful voice to the role, along with the ability to capture the Moor’s vulnerability and despair as he is manipulated into killing his wife Desdemona (ably realised

by Melbourne Girls Grammar student Bethany Jewell). The malignant Iago was played with consummate polish by Year 12 student Bill Stephenson. Iago appears in almost every scene and is the puppet master of the play, bringing chaos and violence into the lives of almost every character. Bill’s energy and powerful presence made for many exciting theatrical moments. Other excellent performers included Michael Wyles as the poor fool Roderigo and Zac Lombardo as Cassio.

Highlights of the play included Iago’s evil soliloquies, some intense sword fighting, Desdemona’s haunting Willow song, Roderigo’s ‘disguise’, Ludovico and Gratiano’s costumes, and Othello’s scenes with Iago. The final scene of the play is set in the bedroom, as Othello smothers a pleading Desdemona.

This was a powerful climax to the play, with haunting lighting, an atmospheric set and intense performances from both characters. The play ends with Othello, Desdemona and Emilia (Iago’s wife, Melbourne Girls Grammar student Lizzie Lennie) lying dead on the bed as Lodovico (Year 11 student Nik Bossinakis) laments, and promises that Iago will be punished for his crimes.

From our beginnings in October, through a sun-soaked Play Camp in January to our opening night in a wind swept Quad, the whole cast worked with consistent commitment to bring the play to vivid life. The backstage assistants were no less professional, as the play ran seamlessly and looked fantastic.

This was made possible by supporting members of staff (notably Tim and Sally Scott), students working difficult hours backstage, committed parent helpers and a valued team of talented old-boys, without whom the Quad Play would not be possible.

Despite some threat of rain, the Quad once again provided the amazing and unique atmosphere for theatre that is much loved by audiences and actors alike.

Sharon Mulready Director of Quad Play

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Valedictory Day To celebrate their last day of school, the Year 12 students of 2007 were treated to a special breakfast in the Student Centre with their parents and teachers and a final Chapel Service in the Chapel of St Peter.

In the early evening the traditional prize giving Valedictory Ceremony in The Old Melburnains War Memorial Hall was followed by a School-organised Valedictory Dinner for over 500 parents and their sons at the Melbourne Cricket Club.

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Sesquicentenary

Leadership for the 21st Century After a week of history-making gale force winds, the clouds parted and the sun shone through to allow Melbourne Grammar School to create its own history and, too, its future, by opening The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership.

One thousand, six hundred students, staff and special guests gathered together on 7 April – exactly 150 years to the day since the School held its first assembly in 1858 – to witness the opening of the world-class Centre by the Hon John Brumby, MP, Premier of Victoria.

The Centre is the home of Melbourne Grammar’s structured Leadership program, which has been coined ‘Leadership for the 21st Century’ (L21C). L21C teaches students the skills they will require to excel in the world they encounter as adults, such as adaptability, resilience and creative thinking.

Guests toured the Centre and watched students from Grimwade House, Wadhurst and Senior School demonstrate interactive technological activities, prior to making their way to the Wadhurst Oval for the official opening ceremony.

There, they were treated to a re-enactment of the first School Assembly by Wadhurst Drama students and speeches from Chairman of Council Sandy Clark, Headmaster Paul Sheahan, the School Captains and of course the Premier, on whom the Centre clearly made a big impression.

“The opening of The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership sees Melbourne Grammar do what it does best – adapt to changing times and deliver the highest quality education to young Victorians,” the Premier said.

“This building represents a further huge stride in the development of the School and the creation of truly exceptional educational opportunities.”

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Premier Brumby said the Centre “embodies Grammar’s belief that the leadership potential of its students is inextricably linked to their academic achievement and social development”.

Mr Sheahan echoed the Premier’s sentiments by explaining the School’s leadership endeavours: “Our thrust into leadership, both in and alongside the time-honoured

classroom experience, embraces that expanded view of what constitutes intelligence,” Mr Sheahan said.

“The individual is central to a Melbourne Grammar education and every encouragement will be given to the individual to develop their talents and find their places in this challenging world, having the confidence to use those talents to their fullest extent.”

The crowd joined Mr Sheahan in thanking major donors Nigel Peck and John Higgins for their belief in the School’s vision, and John Wardle Architects, members of the School Council and staff for their commitment to producing a leading edge facility.

The anniversary celebrations continued at Grimwade House where students attended their own special assembly and tucked into cupcakes topped with rice paper School crests, courtesy of Friends of Grammar Grimwade House.

Evening Debate To add the finishing touch to an already momentous day, Melbourne Grammar hosted The Great Debate in the Higgin’s Theatrette on the evening of 7 April. The event commenced with an address from Robert Champion de Crespigny who underlined the importance of The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership to the new modes of teaching and learning.

Grammar community members Red Symons, Wani Wall and Simon Wilson QC then took to the floor opposite students Bill Stephenson, Douglas Caillard and Julian Breheny to argue their cases for the Debate topic: “A little learning is a dangerous thing”. In line with Red’s prediction, former staff member and guest adjudicator David Woods eventually declared the students the winners.

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Sesquicentenary Talents Committed Exhibition Those Old Melburnians included in the Talents Committed Exhibition were selected in the following 18 categories: Adventure 3 Architecture 2 Armed Services 18 Benefactors 4 Community 6 Education 12 Government 19 Industry, Commerce 16 Law 11

Melbourne Grammar School celebrates its Sesquicentenary in 2008 and one of the major events in this Year’s program, is the Talents Committed Exhibition which recognises 150 Old Melburnians who have made a difference to the City of Melbourne, the State of Victoria and the wider community in Australia and overseas.

The Talents Committed Exhibition takes its name from the School Prayer read by Dr J E Bromby at the first School assembly, when the School opened on Wednesday 7 April 1858.

The Talents Committed Exhibition Committee, consisting of Stewart Brook, Gordon Sargood, the Headmaster Paul Sheahan, the Bursar David Temple, Steve Wilmoth and myself met over a period of three and a half years before making our final selection. I would like to especially thank all of the members of the Committee for their interest and dedication in undertaking a difficult, but nevertheless, rewarding task.

Medicine 16 Melbourne Grammar School 3 Olympic Games 6 Pastoral, Agriculture 4 Religion 6 Science 3 Sport 5 The Arts 13 Writers, Journalism 3 TOTAL 150

These categories were selected to show achievements over a wide range of endeavours.

The research which was carried out to enable the Committee to make its final decision, has unearthed a number of heroic and fascinating stories as well as revealing lives of dedicated service amongst many of The Old Melburnians included in this Exhibition, which in many cases, would not be well known amongst the Grammar community.

I hope that these stories inspire the concept of leadership in the students at Melbourne Grammar School.

Former Prime Minister the Rt Hon Malcolm Fraser AC, CH (OM 1948) provides the keynote speech at the opening of the Exhibition

The School Prayer May Thy blessing and protection, O Lord, be upon us this day; upon our homes; and upon all for whom we are in duty bound to pray; upon the Queen, the Governor, and all who are set in authority under them; upon the Ministers of Christ’s holy religion and the Magistrates who administer justice. And that there never may be wanting a sufficient supply of persons duty qualified to serve Thee, whether in Church or State: we pray for a blessing upon all places of sound learning and religious education, especially upon this School; that those who are called to bear any office herein may always remember that strict and solemn account which they must themselves one day give before the judgement seat of Christ; and that those who shall here receive the lessons of piety and knowledge may use the talents committed to their charge to the welfare of their fellowcreatures and the honour of Thy great name. And this we beg for Jesus Christ’s sake. Amen.

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Grahme Dixon (OM 1956) and Jill Johnson read about the achievements of Old Melburnians

The selection criteria used by the Committee included: Those chosen must have attended the School as a student; That by their achievements and example they have enhanced the “welfare of their fellow-creatures”; and That their example is capable of inspiring the concept of leadership in students of Melbourne Grammar School.

Therefore the Talents Committed Exhibition provides a selection of 150 Old Melburnians whose lives have a made a difference.

Peter Beaumont Chair, Talents Committed Exhibition Committee

The Way We Were The beautiful watercolour painting by artist C A Wilson depicts Melbourne Grammar School from the Domain and was painted in 1927. The painting formed the front and back covers of the Sesquicentenary Timeline and has drawn many admiring comments as a wonderful depiction of the School buildings in the earlier part of last century.

Cordner-Eggleston Cup This year, Melbourne Grammar is not only celebrating its Sesquicentenary as a School, but also the 150th anniversary of its involvement in the first recorded game of Australian Rules Football. The match, between Melbourne Grammar and Scotch College, was played on 7 August 1858. The schools have since competed annually for the glory of the Cordner-Eggleston Cup, which was named after outstanding sportsmen Dr Don Cordner and Michael Eggleston.

To commemorate the history of the great game, the CordnerEggleston Cup match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday 8 August. The match will be the curtain raiser to the Melbourne versus Geelong AFL match in the evening, which is fitting, as the first time these two teams went head to head was also 150 years ago.

While the match in 1858 finished in a tie, you can be sure Melbourne Grammar and Scotch College will be fighting hard for the prize this year. After the contest, both teams will stay on field for the presentation of the Cup before collecting their Team of the Sesquicentenary medals at a special function in one of the Melbourne Cricket Club hospitality rooms.

Charles Wilson was the father of Philip St John Wilson (OM 1918), who was a staff member from 1927 to 1942.

Philip Wilson was School Chaplain and House Master of Perry and subsequently Headmaster of Brighton Grammar School. Philip Wilson’s daughter Janice Bate, wife of Weston (a former School staff member) and author of the School’s history Challenging Traditions had five sons who attended MGS through the 1970s and early 80s and there are currently two grandsons of Weston and Janice Bate in Senior School with two more to come in 2010 and 2011.

Other Melbourne Grammar students will also have the opportunity to take part in the festivities. A selection of students will join together to form guards of honour for the players of Melbourne and Geelong football clubs as they run on to the ground for their match.

David Temple Bursar Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Out and About Sovereign Hill Visit

The students try their luck panning for gold and try their hand at candle-making before blocking their ears as the soldiers fire their muskets

As part of the Sesquicentenary celebrations, all students and staff at Grimwade House went on an excursion to Sovereign Hill, Ballarat on 14 April. The trip was organised to give the Grimwade House community an understanding of life in Victoria around the time when Melbourne Grammar School was founded in 1858.

Throughout the day, students participated in various activities including following a tent to town trail, exploring the Chinese community, touring the gold mines and panning for gold.

Students were keen to try their luck, hoping to strike it rich!

Each class group also spent a session in the Education Centre where students gained insight into what life was like for young children in the 1850s. Many students found dressing up in the period costumes entertaining. Some students were fortunate enough to partake in a role-play of a typical 1850s school class. A few were a little concerned about the strap hanging in the corner of the classroom!

Every group had time to meander through the shops along the main street of Sovereign Hill. The lolly shop was a highlight for many, as were the newspaper print-works and photography shop.

The trip also provided an opportunity for Prep and Year 1 students to spend some time with their Year 5 or 6 buddies.

Staff noted that the older students adopted a nurturing role with their young buddies throughout the excursion, and demonstrated examples of leadership throughout the day.

Each person who took part in this event was enriched by the experience. It was certainly a great way to celebrate our Sesquicentenary and a day to remember.

Amanda Louey Grimwade House Head of Science 24

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Sea Kayaking Camp

Year 5 Soccer Day

Students enjoy the sunshine at Wilsons Promontory after a challenging kayak

Melbourne Grammar students Stephanie Bobik, Roman Ely and Michael Takis share their soccer skills with students from St Albans English Language School

All but one of the 16 students were new to kayaking when they joined this camp, but the idea of ‘messing about in boats’ and being able to drop anchor along any of the magnificent beaches along the coast of Wilsons Promontory, whenever one felt like it, proved to be too great to resist.

Once we had left our base at Port Welshpool, our three new Year 10 students Jack Cookson, Oscar Dixon and Declan Hofbauer rose to the task and led the group with the able assistance of our experienced Outdoor Education expert Malcolm Cowell.

The Wilsons Promontory part of the camp has proven to be rather elusive in past years as the weather and the tides prevented other groups from actually reaching it. This year however, the weather was so glorious and the boys so eager to respond to the tough challenges that we all made it across the 40 metre deep channel, appropriately named Singapore Deep, not just once but twice, and then went exploring along the coast.

All the boys especially loved camping with the kangaroos on the fresh new grass around the Cattlemen’s Huts at Big Snake Island, and the chance to spend some time splashing around in the shallows, playing on the beach and doing some fishing.

In the end this was by no means an easy camp. Carrying and dragging fully loaded kayaks over the mud and sand dunes, plus hours of paddling, was truly physically demanding.

There were other challenges too, having to pack and repack kayaks each time we moved and having to just get on with it when all one felt like doing was to give up. However all the boys had a great time and found this to be one of the best experiences they have had. Well done everyone!

Alberto Rizzo Teacher in Charge

Grimwade House students had the rare opportunity to learn from George Halkias, Coach of the Australian Homeless Street Soccer Team, at the Year 5 Soccer Day at Edwin Flack Park in March. Some of the players from the Australian team joined him to umpire matches in a special Street Soccer tournament.

We were also lucky to host students from St Albans’ Western English Language School, many of whom were recent arrivals to Australia and spoke very little English.

We all came together and joined in the spirit of the day, which was to emphasise that sport can be a communicator, and it can provide a common language when a spoken one is not apparent. The 100 Grimwade House students and 40 St Albans students participated in both a Street Soccer tournament and a session of skills and drills. Friends of Grammar Grimwade House and Class Representatives were generous in providing chilled fruit and icy poles which were certainly appreciated.

During their time in Upper Primary, students investigate a diverse range of cultural groups and their contributions to Australian identity. Our Soccer Day is an authentic opportunity for us to consider the similarities we have with people from different countries or those with different religious beliefs.

Later in the year, students will investigate ideas based around immigration. They have had a wonderful experience relating to children of similar ages whose lives have been nothing like those of our Grimwade House children.

There are many benefits to a day such as this, but none so wonderful as to see children from both schools arm in arm, making friends, high fiving, sharing lunches and playing together in a cooperative and respectful manner. In the words of Year 2 St Albans student Bruno, “We are family!” That said it all.

Glyn Howitt Assistant Head (Curriculum) Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Out and About Indigenous Youth Tour Tyrone said he was blown away by the tour and found that it stirred many feelings that have helped him gain a better appreciation of life.

“I loved the HIV/AIDS camp where we took footy clinics.

Knowing that many of the kids are going to die and seeing them laugh made me realise how much better my life is.

They have given me extra ‘kick’ to play footy,” he said.

“Uniforms and books mean everything to the kids over there. I’m so grateful that I’m going to one of the best schools and I’ve taught my brother and sister not to complain as much.”

Tyrone said the trip – his first overseas – had a unifying effect on his family.

“My dad was very happy for me. Everyone in our family has gone in different directions and this opportunity brought my family together. Everyone was calling up my dad to ask how I was going,” he said.

The trip exposed students to the segregation experienced

by South Africans through activities including a tour of the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, which Tyrone listed as another highlight.

“Learning about Apartheid felt similar to the separation experienced by indigenous Australians. There are still towns in South Africa that are run by black people, and others that are run by white people and that’s sad.”

The children of South Africa made a lasting impression on Year 11 student Tyrone Bean

Three Melbourne Grammar students gained a life-changing cultural experience when they travelled to South Africa for the AFL Indigenous Youth Tour in February.

Year 11 student Tyrone Bean and Year 10 students Anthony Hale and Steven May were selected along with 22 other Australians to represent the country in three matches against a team of South African children.

While the tour had a football focus, it was designed to act as a vehicle to improve the lifestyle outcomes for indigenous people. The journey included tours of Nelson Mandela’s house in Soweto, Hluhluwe National Park, Table Mountain and Robben Island. The students also conducted football clinics with local children in Alexandra and Nyanga.

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Of course the football component of the tour did not disappoint either. Students had the opportunity to mix with their AFL idols and indigenous ambassadors Derek Kickett, Gavin Wanganeen and Jason McCartney. They also enjoyed a coaching clinic with the Carlton Football Club before playing against South Africa in the curtain raiser to an exhibition match between Carlton and Fremantle in Pretoria.

Perhaps the most rewarding thing for Tyrone is that the tour has helped him understand that he can make a difference.

“I’ve become a leader. On the fourth day of the tour, I was selected Team Captain and I was a leader in that way. But I’m also a leader to everyone at Melbourne Grammar and so many people were interested about my trip when I got back.”

“I realise now that after school, I’d like to be a social worker.

I want to help indigenous clubs or even go back to South Africa to help the locals play footy. I know the city’s not me,” he said.

Professional Development Virtual Worlds

Mandy Salomon’s insightful presentation left Melbourne Grammar staff intrigued

Mandy Salomon with Director of Teaching and Learning Chris Bradtke

At a recent conference I attended, Jimmy Wales spoke to a gathering of the faithful. Jimmy, the guru of Wikipedia, casually dressed, informal of language and appearance, had no trouble convincing us that the web provides us with endless possibilities to harness community generated knowledge. The conference buzzed with excitement at the endless possibilities for further developments. The conference also buzzed with dialogues among participants who had come to worship at the techno shrine.

During her presentation at Melbourne Grammar School at the beginning of the 2008 school year, Mandy unsettled a number of staff with her examples of Second Life Web and her references. She pointed out that, conservatively, tens of millions of people use virtual realities. These range between online games such as World of Warcraft to social networks with 3D components like Cyworld. Habbo Hotel, she said, is thought to have 80 million or so users. According to Salomon, as more of the world gets broadband connectivity, so users will be drawn to sites that use 3D imagery. There is a danger, she says, in not embracing virtual worlds for the purposes of education given that they are a growing part of students’ lives. Educators need to acquaint themselves with this emerging technology. It is in its nascent stages but in five years time, it will seem a natural extension to learning, just as the Internet is today.

At morning tea, not only was I amused, but also rather troubled, given that many around me seemed to be speaking in a language unknown to me about their equally mysterious work. It became increasingly apparent that many had come as representatives of organisations involved with projects that clearly targeted the future. Most were working in jobs that bore very little resemblance to the ones that so readily come to mind or those that comfortably fit our current concepts of what constitutes a successful career.

In this rather unsettling environment, I happened on Mandy Salomon. Mandy, a Senior Researcher in User Environments, prompted me to consider where we at Melbourne Grammar School were currently situated in our use of technology and, more importantly, what use we were making of virtual realities, such as Second Life. Since that meeting I have become much more aware of the growing number of newspaper articles on Web 2.0, the inordinate rise in the number of social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace, the possibilities for exploiting virtual realities for the purposes of education and, indeed, the new skills that students may need to function as 21st century adults. These are challenges for most educators, particularly those of us schooled in the middle of the last century; the majority of Australian teachers.

Ms Salomon continues to work with several staff members who are carefully considering the educational value of Web 2.0 and its particular application at Melbourne Grammar.

Chris Bradtke Director of Teaching and Learning

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Boarding Senior Boarding quadrangle which is used for many of our social and family days. These features help to make our boarding houses fine and sought-after examples of the boarding experience.

Nick Bates Head of School House

Boarding Activities

School House boarders Sam Quennell, George Coles and Simon Allen outside Melbourne Grammar’s boarding precinct

The Melbourne Grammar School boarding experience is unique in a number of ways. The first is that Perry and School boarding houses also operate as day houses, which means borders remain with their fellow boarders for School activities, such as Sport. This allows the Heads of House and tutors to take full responsibility, in conjunction with families, for the personal, social and academic wellbeing of each student. It also helps to promote the building of strong bonds and spirit within the House. Although smaller in number than the day houses, they are still able to compete strongly and very successfully in all aspects of the House system.

The second is that all tutors in Perry and School houses are members of the Senior School staff. There are four tutors allocated to each House and each tutor is directly responsible to the Head of House. Staff members are selected for their proven experience in pastoral care, ability to connect with young people and eagerness to make a difference as part of the boarding family. The use of staff members creates a strong link with the School and gives students ready access to academic support and helps to maintain a disciplined working and living environment. The staff minister to a wide variety of needs and in that role can call on the special expertise of our psychologists, chaplains, counsellors, nurses, learning strategists, career development staff and sporting coaches.

Thirdly, we are fortunate to live in an award winning, modern, purpose-built complex. The building has been designed to cater for both individual privacy and social interaction. Senior boys have their own rooms while the junior boys have a room mate. Each small module area has its own bathroom and all students have their own study facilities and internet access. The complex has a large 28

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Melbourne Grammar and Melbourne Girls Grammar boarders often engage in joint recreational activities

The boarding house is a busy place. Boys and staff are coming and going at all times, pursuing different aims each day, just like any small community. Although most boys are regularly active with sporting commitments, music, other extra-curricular activities and, of course, schoolwork, we aim to give them a regular opportunity to do different things outside of the boarding house.

Obviously, activities involving girls’ schools are well attended! School social nights are a big hit, as are volleyball in the quad and dinner swaps. Last year the Melbourne Girls Grammar students came with us on our ski trip to Mt Buller.

The boys also went to the St Kilda Festival, lawn bowling, the Motor Show, the movies, international rodeo and even Channel 9 and 10 studios to meet celebrities.

By far the most popular activities are go-karting and our famous Grudge Matches. The Grudge Matches are a knockout round of indoor soccer games culminating in Junior Division (Years 9 and 10) and Senior Division (Years 11 and 12) Champions. Each Champion team then goes on to challenge the staff. Suffice it say, there aren’t many rules so few rules can be broken! When the excitement is just too much, the boys prefer a quiet afternoon in the gym or pool and a jaunt to 7-Eleven for some light refreshments.

Marc Bishop Boarding Activities Officer

The Grammar Foundation Leading a new era of philanthropy Over the past 80 years Nigel H Peck AM (OM 1945) has seized every opportunity in his personal and professional life with great vigour. His unique ‘common sense’ approach to life and business drawn from his education at Melbourne Grammar School and early career provided the foundation for a remarkable career. NHP Electrical Engineering Products Pty Ltd opened its doors in 1968 with a staff of 17. Up until his retirement in 2001, Nigel’s leadership saw the business grow and develop to a position regarded internationally as Australia’s leading industrial electrical products company.

Nigel recently remarked: “I think education and exposure to business just like life generally opens your eyes to other possibilities”. Nigel’s formative education began at Malvern Grammar School before he joined Melbourne Grammar School where he spent the final six years of his secondary education. Nigel’s recollections of school days at Grammar are a mix of fond memories overlayed with the reality of the war years in Melbourne.

While he admits that in his years at Grammar he did not always extend himself academically, Nigel did seize every opportunity to participate in School life with great enthusiasm.

Nigel speaks with pride of the tremendous discipline and academic standards within the School. On leaving Melbourne Grammar School Nigel completed a Diploma in Management at RMIT. He then secured a cadetship with a pharmaceutical company and from this position moved quickly to Noyes Brothers, who were leaders in engineering products and equipment.

In 1950, aged 23, Nigel was ‘head hunted’ to go to Johnson & Phillips, an Australian electrical company, as assistant to the sales manager. It was there he learnt how to organise and manage people in business. Very quickly Nigel rose through the company and within a few years became responsible for purchasing and distribution, overseeing more than 50 people in Melbourne.

After a series of company takeovers, Nigel decided to start his own venture – NHP Electrical Engineering Products Pty Ltd. Nigel’s insistence early on that real value was in securing an agency for high quality, market leading products has been fundamental to NHP’s growth and success over the past 40 years. Moreover the company has thrived because of Nigel’s insightful leadership and his understanding that a successful company is one in which the work force is united and motivated.

Beyond his great success in business Nigel has pursued and succeeded in competitive motor racing and sailing.

“Nigel Peck has been an absolute inspiration to me. His energy and enthusiasm to provide for future generations stands as a shining example to us all.”

Paul Sheahan Headmaster

Nigel represented Australia eight times in Flying Fifteens International class, winning two world championships.

Nigel’s involvement with Melbourne Grammar School over the past decade as a member of the Grammar Foundation Board and President of the Witherby Tower Society has served to raise the sights of both the School and the wider Grammar community. Nigel has been indefatigable and his recent leadership gift to the Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Campaign has set a new benchmark for philanthropy at Melbourne Grammar School and the advancement of education in Australia.

Nigel has been the catalyst for a new era of philanthropy at Melbourne Grammar School, one that will ensure that the School remains at the forefront of education and continues to provide opportunities for students to look beyond what they think is possible to achieve the unimaginable.

Michael Joyce Director of Development Acknowledgement: “Nigel H Peck AM: A Man with a Vision” (2007) Alastair Dwyer

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The Old Melburnians Council

Stephen Gibbons

The 2008 Old Melburnians Council, from left, back row: Campbell Kennedy, Ameet Bains, Michael O’Brien, Jack Hawkins, middle: Ken Velos, Philip Solomon, John Whittington, Chris Venus, front: Headmaster Paul Sheahan, Nigel Thompson, OM President Stephen Gibbons, Simon Derham, Simon Wilson QC

From the President We are now at a point that is almost half way through the year, being notable as the Sesquicentenary year. First term is behind us and the upcoming June/July holidays are before us. We have had some recent changes to the OM Council in that John Batistich has retired after a lengthy period of service and contribution, for which we appreciate and thank him. We now have two new members being Andrew Tulloch and Michael O’Brien who have joined this year. Michael has previously sat on the Council as the first year representative after his VCE year as School Captain in 2006, and Andrew has joined us after a lengthy period in the USA. Currently the Council has strong representation from the younger OM members, and their input is greatly influential in our ability to attract interest and involve younger OMs in our activities in general.

The opening of the new Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership was held on April 7. Our contribution both as the OM Society and from OMs in general to the Centre was substantial. We collectively have made a substantial contribution to this building and no doubt will contribute greatly in the future to further fundraising efforts by the Foundation. This would not occur without a significant uptake of school leavers in our society. Without the uptake of Life Members into the OM society, the viability of the OM Society would be compromised. It will be noted that the Life Membership dues will appear on the Year 12 accounts

earlier this year than in previous years to allow extra time for consideration to be made for Life Membership. I encourage parents of current Year 12 students to join their sons as Life Members of the OM Society.

The OM Council has recently supported the commencement of its OM Fellowship for younger members. Further details will be announced at the OM Dinner regarding this OM Fellowship which will commence in 2009. This will enable young OMs to apply for funding to pursue some of their many areas of interest in the future. The successful applicants of the OM Fellowship will benefit from the generous bursaries available, and will be expected to present their pursuits to the wider Grammar community. We have been the subject of criticisms in the past at times as to our purpose, and this Fellowship will cement our position and worth in a quantitative manner within the general Grammar community. The announcement of the first OM Fellow will be at the 2009 Annual Dinner.

The OM Dinner this year in the Sesquicentenary year is on Friday 13 June at the NGV and is shaping up as a great night.

Not only is it jam-packed with our own star studded microcelebrities but it is also our Headmaster, Paul Sheahan’s final year. Tickets can be purchased through the Lodge and I look forward to catching up with many of you on the night.

Stephen Gibbons President of The Old Melburnians

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

The Old Melburnians 1968 1st VIII Row Pass

Soccer Club

The 1968 1st VIII, from left: Michael Hamer, Clive Beckingsale, John Benson, Will Baillieu, Greg White, John Kiddle, David Michelmore, David Slessar, Logan Armstrong

The new Old Melburnians Soccer Club Under 21 All-Star Team, from left: Ari Goldberg, Kenny Kwong, Matt Southwell, Mike Holland, Patrick Nestel, David Wright, Steve Williams, Henry Hulton, Sebastian Kemmerer, Ziggy Razuki, Captain Daimon Goto

The 1968 1st VIII finally stepped aboard after 40 years: the bow from the Bahamas, stroke from Sydney and, after a great investigative effort, the rest. Donning our reunion T‑shirts and caps we braved the water. Always a disparate group but united in purpose whenever in that boat. This time was no exception with that magic rhythm and focused determination shining through.

A brief overlap with the current VIII was unfortunately cut short but nonetheless we all stepped ashore feeling exhilarated and proud. Surprisingly all were relatively fit and as the photographs attest, a formidable if somewhat vintage look. Remembering the rocket from a former Head of the River champion prior to our boat race day, we had great pleasure meeting the 2008 1st VIII and offered words of encouragement and a message that to win you must believe.

It is easy to underplay the significance of the boat race and I suppose we have for 40 years. The tradition of 150 years of MGS history and a boat race can overwhelm. It was only perhaps when you venture on to the water again that you realise both the significance of being part of that proud history but also leaving your mark.

On boat race day we were, along with the winning MGS ‘58 crew and Xavier ‘48 crew, guests of the APS. To watch that boat race and the brilliance of both Scotch College and Melbourne Grammar was inspiring.

We were proud to share those moments in the Grammar boat shed with the 2008 crew as part of our reunion. It was also significant that John Benson, number three, presented his oar on loan to Will Davidson, the current captain of boats, to hang in the shed in memory of that achievement. The Head of the River is probably one of the most difficult rowing races to win in Australia. We were all very proud to relive it on that special afternoon in March.

David Slessar Captain of Boats and Stroke 1968

The Old Melburnians juggernaut is alive and kicking. After escaping relegation with a dramatic win on the last day of the 2007 season (dramatic in the sense that we needed to win, others needed to lose and that the game was stopped for more than 45 minutes as our striker lay on the ground, his foot conjuring an angle that prime time TV would have regretted showing, but would have shown over and over again). We’ve taken on our good/bad fortune and hit the 2008 year running (except for Tim Rickman, get back soon mate). Participation is up, with more than 50 players regularly attending training, and we now have four teams registered with the FFV – including an ‘Under 21s All Stars’ that will provide a great breeding ground for the new OMs’ talent.

Our training set-up has taken on the fulltime services of Danilo Gomez as our firsts coach as well as retaining the coaching staff from last year including Brendon Foley, our full time fitness coach. A month-and-a-half into the preseason, and some well planned drills and the overbearing late summer weather have done wonders for our touch and fitness.

We’re counting the days down to our first competitive game in April and look forward to consolidating our position in the top division of the amateur leagues, or who knows, making the giant leap into the world of State League Football next season. The games against a newly promoted Scotch College will surely provide some highlights for 2008.

Fixtures and further details can be found on our website, www.omsc.org.au.

John Batistich Chairman, OMs Soccer Club

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OMs Around the World The Old Melburnians World Wide Tie Day To celebrate Melbourne Grammar School’s Sesquicentenary, Old Melburnians the world over were invited to wear The Old Melburnians Commemorative Tie. They were encouraged to send in photos of themselves, perhaps with a group of friends or fellow classmates wearing their OMs Sesquicentenary ties.

The response so far has been exceptional with photos flooding in from all parts of the world as well as from Melbourne and interstate. There have been many interesting stories about the photographs, perhaps the most remarkable being from Robert Cooper (OM 1982) who is a Fire Fighter/Paramedic with the Miami Township Fire-Rescue department in Yellow Springs, Ohio, USA. Just as his and those on his team had their photograph taken, they were called to a cardiac emergency! Please keep the photographs coming.

Stewart Brook Alumni Manager

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Photograph taken by Merryl Officer of Ian Cuming (OM 1957), Nick Uren (OM 1957) and Bob Officer (OM 1957) on the morning of Monday 7 April aboard the Indochina Sails on Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Qung Ninh Province, Vietnam

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Tony Brown (OM 1969) at the Western Plains Zoo near Dubbo.

Tony reported that the giraffes were not as excited about the Sesquicentenary and refused to pose for the photograph

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Ian Poulter (OM 1979) in front of a Canberra bomber used by the RAAF in the 1950s and ‘60s. It is now a gate guardian at his workplace in Fisherman's Bend, Victoria (Defence Science and Technology Organisation)

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Robert Cooper (OM 1982) in front of the Miami Township FireRescue Department in Yellow Springs, Ohio in the United States

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Sir Andrew Grimwade (OM 1948) forwarded this photograph showing the heights reached by The Old Melburnians Commemorative Tie on the 7 April 2008 at the top of the French Alps. Not to mention the heights reached by an Old Melburnian more than half as old as the School!

Andrew Perkins (OM 1977), Stewart Bolton (OM 1984) and Richard Leckey (OM 1977) celebrate the Sesquicentenary at The Australian Club.

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Tim Leviny (OM 1990) in front of the Jing’an Temple in Shanghai. Tim’s office is in the building behind. The Jing'an Temple, the most famous landmark in Jing'an District, is known as the oldest shrine in the city, dating back even further than the city itself. Constructed in 247 AD, it boasts a history of 1,757 years, meaning it was built more than 1,000 years before the official beginning of the city of Shanghai in 1292.

John Best and sons, resplendent in The Old Melburnians Commemorative Ties, clustered under a lamp post in Richmond, Victoria on 7 April 2008. The sign ‘Egan Street’ is named after John’s great grandfather, Michael Egan who was Mayor of Richmond.

10 Rod McCallum (OM 1968) wears The Old Melburnians Commemorative Tie in front of the very iconic Chloe at the Young & Jackson Hotel

Sokan Sok (OM 2002) at the Independence Monument in Phnom Penh Cambodia

The Old Melburnians Commemorative Tie

11 Rowan Russell (OM 1973) in front of Australia House in London 12 Mark Balla (OM 1980) had the great fortune on 7 April to cruise on a canal boat in the beautiful city of Auxerre in Burgundy. In fact he spent a whole week cruising ever so slowly on the River Yonne and the Canal du Nivernais. Mark was the captain, his wife the first mate and their children lock keeper's assistants

Sesquicentenary Commemorative Tie

Silk ties – $25.00 each Enquiries to: Grammar Community Coordinator Melbourne Grammar School 355 St Kilda Road, Melbourne Victoria 3004 T: 03 9865 7555 F: 03 9865 7577 E: events@mgs.vic.edu.au

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Community News Weddings Congratulations

Australia Day Honours

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

On behalf of the Grammar community we extend our congratulations to Robert Moran who was awarded an honour in the Australia Day Honours 2008.

10 November 2007

For service to the community through the establishment of the Myeloma Foundation of Australia and support for people with cancer and their families.

Christian Tomlinson (OM 1993) & Emily Dortimer

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) Robert George Moran (OM1951)

24 November 2007 John Floyd (OM 1974) & Katrina Black Adam Batty (OM 1995) & Claire Blackney

1 December 2007 Eugene Ong (OM 1994) & Christina Foley Jonathan Haste (OM 1989) & Josephine O’Brien James Swinnerton (OM 1991) & Deborah Aerni

7 December 2007 Hans Faehndrich & Amanda Guest (staff)

16 December 2007 Campbell Howie (OM 1996) & Kopal Kopal

5 January 2008 Rory Baird & Tamsin Hone

2 February 2008 Divesh Sanghvi (OM 1998) & Cassandra Dunne

17 February 2008 Michael Nelson (staff) & Sandrine Jouffre

21 March 2008 Robert Downing (OM 1996) & Melissa Cugley

4 April 2008 Robert Wills (OM 1988) & Katrina McKenizie

26 April 2008 Sunil Daniel ( OM 1991) & Amanda Lynch

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Roy Fox (OM 1933) writes that his daughters Rhyl and Sharon arranged an afternoon at the Yarck Public Hall to celebrate his 90th birthday in October last year. Some 150 friends and family attended the celebrations with excellent catering being provided by the local branch of the CWA. Peter Lukey (OM 1962) after a 30 year career in IT with Holden and EDS, he semi retired in 1999. Peter then provided IT support for the Frankston Community Support and Information Centre as a volunteer, and served on the Committee of Management from 2001 to 2007. Having run his own Computer Services business for 7 years, he and his wife have moved from Frankston to live in beautiful Bright where they are building a new house.

Peter Dann (OM 1967) reports that he retired in November 2007 after working as a technical writer for the previous 13 years.

Journalist Chris Griffith (OM 1970) is now working with The Australian newspaper in Sydney after a long reporting career with Queensland Newspapers in Brisbane. He has been Deputy News Editor Online at The Australian and is now Multimedia Development

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Editor, responsible for multimedia systems on The Australian news website.

He is hoping to catch up with old classmates at the Sesquicentenary Old Melburnians Dinner in June.

Ian Balson (OM 1977) is an anaesthetist and works at the Royal Women’s Hospital and St Vincent’s Private Hospital. Ian has three children: Jessica, Jack and Sam and when not working enjoys horseracing and football.

Geoff Cutter (OM 1977) is married to Patty and has two daughters Sonya and Elizabeth. He still has his double bass and plays a 1975 Rickenbacker electric bass in a band. He is still renovating his house and recently completed the 210km Round the Bay in a Day bike ride.

Phillip Francis (OM 1977) writes that he is a director of Barwon Prosthetics and Orthotics and lives in Geelong. In his spare time he enjoys sailing and is a member of the Royal Geelong Yacht Club.

Adam Kenyon (OM 1977) writes that he is the managing Director of Builderlink Consulting and is a keen golfer playing off a handicap of 12. He is married to Elly and has three children.

Richard Leckey (OM1977) and his wife Victoria and their three daughters live in Melbourne and enjoy weekends a Point Lonsdale.

Richard works in a corporate advisory practice focussing on mergers and acquisitions.

Peter Marks (OM 1977) lives in Sydney and has two daughters. After leaving school he went to university and then worked for commercial radio followed by the ABC. These days he is a computer programmer working with mobile phone technology and does some technology commentary work for ABC’s Radio National. The only person he has kept in contact with since leaving School has been with Bill Chapman who lives in the United States.

Richard McMullin (OM 1977) is a urological surgeon and lives and works in Ballarat. He is married to Gwen and they have five children: Christopher, Hannah, Laura, Stephanie and Thomas.

Richard is Chairman of the Victorian section of the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand.

Professor Mark Rosenthal (OM 1977) is Director of Medical Oncology at Royal Melbourne Hospital with an interest in prostate and brain cancers. Mark writes that he has had 14 years of marriage, many of them happy. He and his wife have three children and in his spare time he coaches under 13 cricket.

Jeff Van de Graff (OM 1977) the former Olympic swimmer has recently become engaged to be married and owns and runs the Robina Aquatic Centre.

Angus Whitton (OM 1978) wrote that he attended Wadhurst in the early 1970s before transferring to Geelong Grammar’s Timbertop Campus. His cousins are Grimwades with connections to the Grimwades of Grimwade House and both his father William Whitton (OM 1941) and his grandfather, amateur golfing champion, Ivo Whitton (OM 1911) attended Melbourne Grammar School. His brothers Andrew Whitton (OM 1971), Robert Whitton (OM 1973), James Whitton (OM 1976) and Ian Whitton (OM 1981) all attended Melbourne Grammar School as well.

His grandfather Ivo Whitton served in the Royal Horse Artillery in the British Army during the First World War. Matthew Odlum (OM 1980) has recently been appointed Assistant Editor of The Sun-Herald, a Sunday newspaper published across New South Wales which is part of the Fairfax Media Group. He spent the previous 20-odd years working on publications in the News Ltd and Fairfax groups, in both Sydney and Melbourne, as well as a two-year stint in

the Caribbean helping a publisher on a start-up venture. Matthew would be delighted to hear from anyone else in the media or related industries and can be contacted via OMs Online.

Stephen Hasker (OM 1986) was named in the United States Australian Football League (USAFL) as one of the Umpires of the Decade. USAFL grew from a small five team tournament on one field in Cincinnati in 1997 to 32 teams over four fields in 2007, which shows the extraordinary growth US footy has undergone in its first decade of existence.

Dr Kenneth Pang (OM 1991) has been awarded a prestigious Fulbright Postdoctoral Scholarship to conduct research at Harvard University’s Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. Ken graduated in medicine from the University of Melbourne as Valedictorian at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and subsequently trained as a paediatrician. In 2007, he completed his PhD at the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, where he currently works as a postdoctoral

Book on C.A.Bell (Cranbrook School 1932-56; Melbourne Grammar School 1957-74 ) Those who responded to the request for information last year about C.A. (Dinger) Bell may wonder what has happened since. There were over 100 responses from the two schools, Cranbrook and MGS, ranging from one liners to remarkable exercises in recall. The editors are hopeful that a clear statement on progress, which has quickened lately, will be possible later this year.

Ian Rutherford (OM 1950), Staff 1960-96

research fellow. As a PhD student, Ken made significant discoveries in the fields of genetics and immunology, published 14 articles (including in Genome Research, Trends in Genetics, Journal of Immunology, and Science), and received multiple awards, including the 2006 Victorian Premier’s Commendation for Medical Research. In August, Ken will head to Harvard where he will work with Professor Craig Hunter on the project, Intercellular RNA transport in mammals: function and significance.

Obituaries

Joshua Tromans (OM 2001) completed his Bachelor of Computer Science at Melbourne University and is currently working with Rio Tinto Shipping in Melbourne.

Derham, F T (OM 1937)

Jau Zeng (OM 2001) now lives permanently in Kuala Lumpur and is working for his parents in property development, plantations as well as looking into new business opportunities. He will be opening a vegetarian health food cafe in the middle of Kuala Lumpur, which will hopefully start a change in the way people eat in the country! The cafe will also focus on sustainable and green living to lessen our carbon footprint in the world – something Jau believes Malaysians need a good lesson in.

Michael Clifton-Jones (OM 2002) is currently working for Next Generation Energy Solutions as an Energy Broker, specialising in the electricity market, trading futures and swaps.

Next Generation Energy Solutions (Nextgen) is one of Australia’s leading providers of services to the energy trading industry.

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

Andrew, J D (OM 1942) Ashcroft, E W (OM 1935) Atkinson, A V (OM 1934) Bartlett, S J M (OM 1929) Bush, E (Past Parent) Cone, J C P (OM 1940) Crisp, N L (OM 1951) Crossley, S A (Past Parent) Fraser, A N (OM 1933) Gates, T C (Staff Member) Ham, J A P (OM 1954) Hamilton, A P R (OM 1943) Harrison, I D (Past Staff) Head, J P (Staff Member) Hodgson, F H (OM 1940) Leckie, D W (OM 1938) MacGregor, R J (OM 1962) McDonald, J H (OM 1948) McNicol, B N (OM 1956) Moline, R C (OM 1949) Oppenheim, D J (OM 1966) Perkins, A B (OM 1940) Rainey, A J (OM 1950) Ralph, C C (OM 1924) Ramsden, G S (OM 1931) Robinson, R W H (OM 1954) Rogers, N R (OM 1949) Sellaroli, M D (Past Parent) Smith, A H (OM 1945) Smith, R M (OM 1934) Stubbs, G M (OM 1939) Tayler, C E (OM 1932) Thompson, W L (OM 1933) Troup, J G A (OM 1939) Turner, S (FOTS)

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Friends of Grammar

Friends of Grammar 2008 Presidents from left: Su-lin Loh (Grimwade House), Penny Fowler (Wadhurst) and Wani Wall (Senior School)

Senior School Melbourne Grammar School’s Centenary celebrations 50 years ago marked the beginning of a new era in school life.

Under enlightened Headmaster Brian Hone, the days of parents being held at arm’s length were over.

Enter Joyce Brown and Betty Cordner who started their ‘softening’ of the bluestone by helping with the organisation of the highly successful Centenary Fair. With great enthusiasm they grabbed the opportunity to establish a building appeal and cemented their influence with the founding of Grammar Mothers. Over nearly 20 years, Grammar Mothers raised an enormous amount of money

for the purposes of the School and more importantly, helped make the School a better and more inclusive place.

In 1977 Grammar Mothers broadened into Friends of Grammar, and here we are today, working together to celebrate another significant milestone, the School’s 150th anniversary. Last month, the Headmaster hosted a wonderful luncheon for the past Presidents of Friends of Grammar in honour of their tireless efforts over the decades. It was indeed a challenge for Mr Sheahan to get a word in! Special thanks to Lesley Bryden (1978) and Edith Nelson (1980) for their efforts in marking this special occasion. Penny, Su-lin and yours truly are indeed honoured to be the latest within the ranks of these terrific women, and let’s not forget the one male Past President, Alistair Armstrong.

In between events, it’s business as usual for FOG with regular year level opportunities to socialise and catch up with School happenings. As you know, part of our charter is to assist in the provision of those extras that enhance the educational experience. To this end FOG Senior School has recently supplied the Design Technology Department with an amazing new machine which enables students to design and test their very own aerodynamic F1 racing car. If you’re interested in knowing more, Mr Bourne’s your man.

How wonderful that we are in a position to provide this sort of inspiring technology. Who knows, maybe we’ll uncover another Enzo Ferrari!

On behalf of the FOG Senior School Committee, thank you all for your on-going support. Friends of Grammar is indeed everything Joyce and Betty could have hoped for.

The past and current Presidents of Friends of Grammar recall good times at a special luncheon 36

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Wani Wall President FOG Senior School and Executive

Wadhurst

Grimwade House We have had a busy start to the year at Grimwade House.

Our welcome morning teas were very well attended, and our enthusiastic and hard working Class Representatives have organised year level and class morning teas and year level cocktail parties where parents can catch up with old friends and make new ones.

The annual FOGG Tennis Day Lunch was held most successfully on Monday 3 March at Edwin Flack Park.

The facilities there are marvellous, and parents enjoyed a delicious lunch in lovely surroundings.

New Year 7 students enjoy a BBQ on their first day of School provided by Friends of Grammar Wadhurst

Wadhurst always starts the year with a range of functions aimed at welcoming new students and parents. We held a lunchtime sausage sizzle on the Wadhurst Oval for the 172 incoming Year 7 boys on their first day of school. It is always an exciting but anxious time for everyone and it was great to see all the boys settling into their new surroundings.

The following morning we held a “Welcome to Wadhurst” morning tea for Year 7 parents – 140 parents managed to find a car park and turn up at the Hall! We have 83 new families to MGS in Year 7 and we especially hope they enjoyed meeting other parents and making new friends. Other functions have included Year 7 morning teas and our annual Year 7 and Year 8 cocktail parties which were both extremely well attended.

As many of you know Friends of Grammar is the school parent group and one of our main aims is to encourage you to be involved in the many activities of the School. Any money we raise goes back into the School and last year we contributed approx $35,000 towards various items at Wadhurst including new music lockers, iMac computers and a rowing scull. This year, along with Senior School and Grimwade House, we will be contributing to the sculptural signage that will be part of the new Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership.

On Thursday 6 March FOGG and the Year 5 Class Representatives provided fruit and icy poles for the Year 5 Soccer Day, which was held at Edwin Flack Park as part of the Year 5 Activities Week. Grimwade House, with the help of some of the Street Socceroos, hosted children from the Western Language School, some of whom had only been in Australia a few days. The staff from both schools worked very hard to ensure the day was a great success.

Grimwade House has been lucky enough to have Lewis Miller visiting this term as our artist-in-residence. On Monday 12 March, Lewis gave a very interesting presentation to parents about his work, after which FOGG hosted an afternoon tea, as we did the following week following a rousing assembly to farewell Marita O’Keefe, our Deputy Head, who is leaving Grimwade House after 25 years. We wish Marita all the very best for the future.

Last year FOGG was able to assist the school by purchasing equipment to the value of $29,500, the largest purchase being shade structures for the Sports Department.

I would like to thank the FOGG Committee, the Class Representatives and Year Level Coordinators, and the School community for their unfailing support. We are very much looking forward to the rest of the year’s activities, both those that are a regular part of the School calendar, as well as the special events planned for the Sesquicentenary.

Su-lin Loh President FOG Grimwade House

We have a large group of parents involved on the Committee and as Class Representatives. I thank them all for committing their time and know they will help to make everyone feel part of the Melbourne Grammar Community in this special Sesquicentenary year. We look forward to seeing lots of parents at the many events planned.

Finally, thank you to Greg Caldwell and all the Wadhurst staff who are always so helpful and supportive.

Penny Fowler President FOG Wadhurst Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Community Diary Dates School Tours Why not join one of our regular tours to see what Melbourne Grammar School has to offer? Tours are held during the school day and are particularly designed for families to view the educational facilities of each campus.

Grimwade House Small group tours of our coeducational junior campus are held on a regular basis.

Further information and bookings can be made by contacting the Grimwade House Office on (03) 9865 7800.

Wadhurst Tuesday 5 August 2008 at 9.15am Wednesday 20 August 2008 at 9.15am Friday 17 October 2008 at 9.15am Wednesday 19 November at 9.15am Bookings are essential and can be made with the Admissions Secretary on (03) 9865 7570.

Senior School Tuesday 22 July 2008 at 2pm Thursday 28 August at 9.15am Tuesday 14 October at 9.15am Wednesday 12 November at 9.15am Bookings are essential and can be made with the Admissions Secretary on (03) 9865 7570.

Boarding Precinct Tours of the boarding precinct are organised on request. To make a booking please call the Admissions Secretary on (03) 9865 7570.

Sesquicentenary Concert The Art Centre’s Hamer Hall will be filled with the sounds of Australian music when Melbourne Grammar holds its highly anticipated Sesquicentenary Concert on 2 September.

Students from the School’s many choirs, orchestras and bands, including 90 students from the Year 2 String class, will perform songs that highlight significant periods of Australian history, such as the Ned Kelly era and the discovery of Australia by Captain Cook.

The Concert will be Melbourne Grammar Director of Music Martin Rutherford’s last concert in Hamer Hall before he retires at the end of this year. “I’m looking forward to this, my 19th concert in Hamer Hall since I commenced at Melbourne Grammar as Director of Music in 1982,” Mr Rutherford said.

Tickets for this event will be released shortly. For more information please visit www.mgs.vic.edu.au.

Sesquicentenary Rugby Tournament In celebration of the School’s Sesquicentenary the MGS Rugby Club, in conjunction with the Rugby@MGS parent supporters group, is staging an International Rugby Carnival during the school holidays from July 6 – 12.

The eight participating schools include Oundle School UK, Melville High School NZ, St Thomas’ College Sri Lanka, Tamagawa High School Japan, The Hutchins School Hobart, Shore Grammar School Sydney and Scotch College.

Round robin games will be played at both Melbourne Grammar and Scotch.

Playoffs are to be staged at Melbourne Grammar culminating in the Plate and Cup finals which will be held at the Main Oval on Friday 11 July. Other Carnival functions include a welcome BBQ in the Student Centre, a cultural evening in The Old Melburnians War Memorial Hall and a gala dinner to be held at the Camberwell Civic Centre. This dinner is being held in conjunction with the Victorian Rugby Union and will include tournament players, managers and coaches along with representatives of all other schools playing rugby in Victoria.

The Carnival is a major undertaking for the MGS Rugby Club and a unique celebration of schoolboy rugby in Victoria. All boys and parents interested in rugby are encouraged to attend. The club is seeking donations to support the staging of this event. Sponsorship opportunities are also available by way of advertising in the souvenir program and ground signage. For further information please contact Dr Chris O’Donnell, president of rugby@MGS on 0409 863 930 or Mr Rob Shields, Master in Charge of Rugby at Melbourne Grammar.

Dr Chris O’Donnell President of Rugby@MGS

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

New Parents Welcome New parents were welcomed to the Melbourne Grammar School community by staff, the School Captains and Friends of Grammar representatives with a cocktail party on the Wadhurst Deck on 31 January 2008

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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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