Grammar News
Towards 2030 Our priorities for the future A holistic education Exceptional staff An engaged School community Embrace the wider world Sustain quality and accessibility
Edition 140 July 2022
Grammar News
What you might have missed
VIEW THE ONLINE EDITION
The 139th edition of Grammar News, published in April 2022, was only available in digital format. To view this edition visit news.mgs.vic.edu.au HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: A reflection by the Headmaster, Mr Philip Grutzner (OM 1981) Leadership update • Meet Anna-Louise Simpson, our new Head of Wadhurst, Julian Smith (OM 1975), the recently appointed President of the Melbourne Grammar School Foundation and Thindika Amarasekara (OM 1991), the incoming President of the Old Melburnians Council. Focus on Visual Arts • Two Old Melburnians share stories about their professional success in quite disparate visual arts careers. • We take a close look at student photography at Melbourne Grammar. Perspectives on education • Key Melbourne Grammar educationalists and our 2022 Captain of School share their thinking about various aspects of our program.
Grammar News aims to connect our School community with our initiatives and activities, present news about our Old Melburnians, and explore the ideas that are shaping our School and leading us towards new ways of thinking. Free to School community members, Grammar News is published quarterly each year. The first and third editions are published in digital only formats. For further information and to provide feedback: newsletter@mgs.vic.edu.au
Our stories • Congratulations to our 2022 Winter Olympians. • Our students are achieving success in many areas, including gaining superb 2021 VCE results.
Melbourne Grammar acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands that are used by the School, and we pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.
• Find out about how members of our School community are building positive connections with others.
Do we have your email address? The next edition of Grammar News, to be published in October 2022 will be in a digital only format. We will need your email address to be able to send it to you.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that this magazine contains images and names of deceased persons.
Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication. We apologise should any errors remain.
To update your contact details Contact School Reception +61 3 9865 7555 mgs@mgs.vic.edu.au or visit mgs.vic.edu.au/update-details
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Edition 140, July 2022 Contents REGULAR FEATURES 28 The Old Melburnians 35 Obituaries 36 Featured artwork
ARTICLES
10 Classics and Latin at Melbourne Grammar 14 Balancing change and tradition over two decade 16 An open-minded view on spiritual connection 17 Connection and support across generations 20 A new classmate brings more joy to Grimwade 21 You are invited to a special event
ON THE COVER Towards 2030: our vision, values and priorities Newly released Towards 2030 outlines Melbourne Grammar School’s future strategic intentions. “We believe Towards 2030 is a confident response to the changing nature of the world around us and it builds on the essence of Melbourne Grammar: the pursuit of excellence in all its forms.” Andrew Michelmore AO (OM 1970) Chair of Council
Philip Grutzner (OM 1981) Headmaster
TO READ TOWARDS 2030: Visit mgs.vic.edu.au/towards2030 Contact School reception for a copy +61 3 9865 7555 or mgs@mgs.vic.edu.au Or scan here:
TOWARDS 2030
22 Tut, Tut! was great, great!
Our vision, values and priorities
24 A commitment to understanding and change 25 Community service shapes deeper understanding 26 Students make their mark on Motor Works
The publication of Towards 2030 replaces separate articles by the Chair of Council and Headmaster in this edition of the magazine.
27 A timetable change leads to new opportunities for learning
The cover also includes an image of Year 9 student, Saxon Taranto, drawn from Towards 2030 as he performs at the Autumn Bands Concert staged in May 2022.
34 A gift of care and affection
Excellence and achievement Meet members of the Melbourne Grammar School community achieving success in their field of endeavour. 04 Family and community drive Geelong star’s success 06 New accolades for VCE students 07 Rowing success 07 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours
Current approaches to education 08 Why Latin and the Classics still matter 11 A new view of innovation and success 18 A more inclusive view of leadership 19 Building empathy and resilience at Wadhurst
12 Finding success by following a craving Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
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EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT
Family and community drive Geelong star’s success
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Melbourne Grammar School
W
hen Geelong FC full forward Tom Hawkins (OM 2006) ran onto the Sydney Cricket Ground in round 2 of the 2022 AFL season, he broke a long-standing Melbourne Grammar School record.
Tom is now the Old Melburnian who has played the most VFL/AFL games in the School’s history. He also holds the highest percentage of wins amongst the top 10 ‘most games played’ ranking at 72%. THE VALUES BEHIND COMMITMENT “I’ve always had a competitive drive – I think everyone does,” says Tom. “But it depends on how you channel it. For me, I feel driven to do well in all areas of my life. I want to be a good teammate and help my team win, but I also want to be the best husband and father I can be, and the best friend. That takes a different sort of drive.” Reflecting on his career so far, Tom is also quick to point to the support of others as a major factor contributing to his success. “My family and my communities, including Melbourne Grammar, have put so much into my career,” he says. “It’s wonderful knowing this community celebrates my successes, as I do theirs.”
A WILLINGNESS TO ‘HAVE A GO’ Tom remains one of Melbourne Grammar’s favourite sons. He was a third-generation boarder at Perry House, following on from his grandfather Wynne (OM 1940) and his father Jack (OM 1972). Jack was himself a superb footballer and is currently ranked fifth in the number of games played. “Everyone here knows how fortunate they are to go to such a wonderful school,” Tom says.
“I came from a small country town in NSW to a place where I didn’t know anyone, but being a boarder at Melbourne Grammar was the best experience of my life.”
Tom says he learned three valuable lessons during his time at the School: to be willing to step out of his comfort zone, to have a go, and to create good work habits. “These ideals stand me in good stead even today,” he says. EARLY SUCCESS AT SCHOOL Tom played his first game for the First XVIII in Year 10, and was a regular team member from Year 11. He won the Larke Medal (most valuable player) in the AFL Under-18 Championships in his final year at the School. “As Co-captain of the First XVIII in Year 12, Tom’s style was to lead through action rather than words,” says Ben Hanisch, Tom’s Boarding Tutor and Japanese teacher, and now Deputy Headmaster and Head of Senior School. “He began as a shy public speaker but, over the season, grew into the confident yet humble person we see playing for Geelong today.”
AFL CAREER
TOTAL GAMES*
W-D-L
2007–
317 @ Geelong
72% 225-2-90
2. Chris Langford (OM 1979)
1983–1997
303 @ Hawthorn
68% 205-2-96
3. Andrew Thompson (OM 1990)
1997–2007
221 @ St Kilda
47% 103 -2-116
4. Steven May (OM 2010)
2011–
184 @ Gold Coast (123), Melbourne (61)
43% 79-2-103
5. Jack Hawkins (OM 1972)
1973–1981
182 @ Geelong
48% 88-0-94
6. Simon Beaumont (OM 1993)
1995–2003
179 @ Carlton (152), Hawthorn (27)
43% 77-0-102
7.
2014–
177 @ Essendon
42% 74-2-101
8. Don Cordner (OM 1939)
1941–1950
166 @ Melbourne
55% 90-1-75
9. Ian Synman (OM 1953)
1958–1959, 1961–1969
154 @ St Kilda
64% 98-1-55
10. George (Denis) Cordner (OM 1941)
1943, 1948–1956
152 @ Melbourne
57% 85-3-64
1.
Tom Hawkins (OM 2006)
Zach Merrett (OM 2015)
*as at 6 July 2022
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
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EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT
New accolades for VCE students Top: Peter Frangos, William Flintoft Left: Samuel Han, Joseph Wheelahan, Felix Archibald.
Four exemplary Class of 2021 VCE students, together with an outstanding Class of 2022 VCE student, have been recognised for their academic prowess through the 2021 Premier’s VCE Awards. TOP ALL-ROUND VCE HIGH ACHIEVER AWARD Around 20,000 students across Victoria were enrolled in at least one VCE 3/4 unit in 2021. Of these, only 25 students have been recognised for their exceptional results across all of their subjects, receiving a Top All-Round VCE High Achiever Award. This award is bestowed upon those students who achieved study scores of 46 or higher in at least five VCE studies. Congratulations to: • Peter Frangos, 2021 Academic Head of School (Dux) • William Flintoft, 2021 Proxime Accessit (Dux runner-up) Together with fellow Class of 2021 student Kelvin Cao, Peter and William received the highest possible VCE result – an ATAR of 99.95.
Last year, Peter also received First Class Honours results in Calculus and Linear Algebra, both first year subjects at the University of Melbourne. Peter studied these subjects as part of the University of Melbourne Extension Program for talented VCE students. He is currently studying a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne and is planning to pursue a Doctor of Medicine after that. William was the 2021 Captain of School. He received perfect study scores in Mathematical Methods and Physics as a Year 11 student. William will commence a combined Bachelor of Arts/Master of Science at Harvard University later this year. STUDY AWARDS Study Awards are given in recognition of outstanding 2021 results in a particular VCE 3/4 subject, with 296 Study Awards being presented this year. Congratulations to Melbourne Grammar recipients: • Felix Archibald – Philosophy • Peter Frangos – Latin • Yizhang (Samuel) Han – Classical Studies • Joseph Wheelahan – Physics and Systems Engineering
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Melbourne Grammar School
Felix is currently studying a combined Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Arts at the Australian National University. Samuel achieved his superb result as a Year 11 student in 2021 and will complete his Year 12 studies this year. Joseph achieved a perfect study score of 50 in both Physics and Systems Engineering. Now a student at the University of Melbourne, Joseph is studying a Bachelor of Commerce. He is intending to also complete a Master of Engineering. A BREADTH OF LEARNING THROUGHOUT THEIR SCHOOLING “On behalf of the entire School community, I would like to acknowledge the tremendous achievements of these very fine scholars. It is further testament to their talent and dedication to their studies,” said Philip Grutzner, Headmaster. “The breadth of subjects in which they excelled reflects the expertise of the staff who taught these students throughout their time with us.” Joseph, Peter and William all completed their schooling at Melbourne Grammar School, attending from Prep through to Year 12. Felix joined the School in Year 4, and Samuel in Year 7.
Rowing success NATIONAL CHAMPIONS Congratulations to Melbourne Grammar’s First VIII crew who won the Schoolboy’s Coxed Eight National Championship title earlier this year.
Melbourne Grammar School congratulates all members of our community recognised through the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours. These include:
The crew had a commanding lead at the 250m mark, and didn’t lose it throughout the race. They crossed the finishing line 3.00s ahead of Scotch College, and 4.61s ahead of Shore School. It was a fitting victory for the outstanding crew who, despite leading at the halfway mark, took second place in the APS Head of the River race, losing by 3.70s to Scotch College, just one week prior to the National Championships.
COMPANION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AC)
The crew, pictured on the podium, was (from left): Cox: Charlie Wallace, Year 12, Stroke: Winston Hooper, Year 12, 7 seat: Leo Grant, Year 12, 6 seat: Nic Adkins, Year 12, 5 seat: Magnus Randall, Year 12, 4 seat: James Houghton, Year 12, 3 seat: Jack Anderson, Year 11, 2 seat: Christian Sallabank, Year 12, Bow: Matthew Porter, Year 12.
OXFORD WIN AUSTRALIAN REPRESENTATIVES Four First VIII rowers will represent Australia as part of an Under 19 Coxed Eight crew. They will compete in a World Championship event to be held in Varese, Italy from 25–31 July. Congratulations to Winston Hooper, James Houghton, Matthew Porter and Magnus Randall on their tremendous achievement. The rowers won their seats based on their performance at the National Underage Selection Trials in May 2022. Melbourne Grammar’s Director of Rowing and First VIII coach, Tom Abramowski, has been selected to coach the crew. Tom’s many accomplishments include coaching Fergus Hamilton (OM 2017) to a junior world championship in 2017. We wish Tom and the entire crew the very best for the upcoming regatta.
2022 QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS
2016 Captain of Boats Jack Robertson (OM 2016) continues his rowing success competing as part of the victorious Oxford University Blue Boat in the 2022 staging of The Boat Race against the University of Cambridge. While at Melbourne Grammar, Jack rowed in the First VIII in both 2015 and 2016, winning the 2016 APS Head of the River. His 2016 crew also won the Leander Club Challenge Cup for best international school crew at Henley Royal Regatta that year. Jack was also a part of the undefeated Under 17 Schoolboy Eight who were National Champions and Head of the River Champions in 2014. In 2021, Jack graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Berkeley where he was awarded highest GPA on the Men’s Rowing team in both 2020 and 2021. Last year he rowed in the Interstate Championship, winning the King’s Cup for Victoria. Jack is currently undertaking postgraduate studies in sociology at the University of Oxford.
Dr Brendan MURPHY AC (OM 1972) For eminent service to medical administration and community health, particularly as Chief Medical Officer, and to nephrology, to research and innovation, and to professional organisations. OFFICER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AO) The Honourable Edvard (Will) ALSTERGREN QC AO (OM 1980) For distinguished service to the judiciary and to the law, and to sport as an administrator, coach and athlete. Professor Peter CHOONG AO (OM 1978) For distinguished service to orthopaedic medicine, to research and tertiary medical education, and to professional associations. MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (AM) Mr John HOOD AM (OM 1960) For significant service to social welfare organisations, and to the community. Mr Richard ROGERS AM (OM 1969) For significant service to the community through the not-for-profit sector. MEDAL OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA (OAM) Dr Lee NAYLOR OAM (Current Parent) For service to athletes.
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
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SCHOOL NEWS
Why Latin and the Classics still matter
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Melbourne Grammar School
Melbourne Grammar is a school where students are encouraged to ask questions and consider the ideas behind what they learn. In our Classical Studies and Latin classrooms, we draw on centuries-old human knowledge to find new ways to view these ideas.
SEEING OURSELVES THROUGH AN ANCIENT LENS
HOW CLASSICAL THINKING HELPS 21ST CENTURY STUDENTS
For Satu O’Neill, Melbourne Grammar Classical Studies teacher and Lead Examiner in VCE Classical Studies, the subject she teaches offers a new way to understand the nature of today’s society.
“Studying subjects like Classical Studies and Latin sets you up to study anything,” says Satu. “People tell me: ‘Classical Studies helped me the most when I went on to study law, or even medicine.’ Then there are those I meet who tell me they wish they’d studied subjects like these at school, but never took the opportunity.”
“The study of Classical Studies at unit 3/4 VCE level focuses on the material and written works left by the ancient Greeks, particularly their epic poetry and drama, which are studied in English translation,” Satu explains. “These texts highlight the foundational issues of the Western world: justice, power, tyranny and democracy. Looking at how our ideas about these issues first formed is really fundamental to understanding our thinking today.” Head of Latin Ali McWhirter adds that study of this ancient language can shed new light on the way our society functions. “Learning Latin helps you to think more objectively about your own culture and to see that it exists in a wider context,” he says. “We come to see that if we want to fully understand Western literature, for example, we should try to understand the language, and grammar, that underpins it.”
Ali adds that the challenge inherent in studying Latin is a cure for one of the pitfalls of being an accomplished student: perfectionism. “The difficulty of Latin can be confronting for students who’ve always sailed through other subjects,” he explains. “It’s my goal to help them see that what is required is patience, attention to detail, and redefining our idea of what success in the classroom might look like.” Last year, students in each of our Classical Studies and Latin classes topped the state, both receiving a Premier’s award in recognition of their achievement (see page 6). Of course, whether they take on these intellectually stimulating subjects or not, every Melbourne Grammar student gains at least a few words of Latin when they look to our School motto: Ora et Labora, Pray and Work.
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
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SCHOOL NEWS
Classics and Latin at Melbourne Grammar
S
tudies in the Classics and Latin have been an important part of Melbourne Grammar School since the School opened in 1858.
Our first Headmaster, Dr John Bromby (HM: 1858 – 1875), had a firm view that studies in Mathematics, the Classics and Literature formed the basis of a strong education. Within this context, studies in Latin and Ancient Greek represented the Classics. At that time, schools were able to define their own curriculum. Matriculation (public) examinations were set by universities for those seeking to enter degree programs. At the University of Melbourne, these were initially focused on Latin, Ancient Greek and Mathematics, and Melbourne Grammar students normally performed exceedingly well in these subjects.
A selection of relevant books from the School Archives.
Future Headmasters would concur with Bromby. Indeed, our seventh Headmaster, Mr Richard Franklin (HM: 1915 – 1936), himself a Classics graduate from the University of Cambridge, advocated Classics as the best training for public life and the subjects were ‘head of the curriculum’. Post WWII, there was a shift in interest towards the social and physical sciences, but Latin and Ancient Greek (and Ancient History) classes continued even so. However, in 1952, Ancient Greek was dropped as a subject in favour of emphasising Modern Languages. The 1958 Melburnian vol 82. No 4 reports that this “was a retrograde step in a school where Classics have provided themselves such a potent educational force”. However, under the leadership of Nigel Creese (HM: 1970 – 1987) there was a revival in the level of interest in the Classics and this has remained the case since.
10 Melbourne Grammar School
Both Latin and Greek and Roman History were matriculation subjects (and were taught at the School) until 1970 when the Higher School Certificate (HSC) replaced the Year 12 Matriculation Certificate. HSC subjects included Classical Civilisation and Latin, and these were both taught at Melbourne Grammar. The HSC was subsequently replaced with the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) in 1987. VCE subjects include Classical Studies (formerly called Classical Societies and Cultures) and Latin.
Latin is currently offered to Melbourne Grammar students from Year 7 and Classical Studies from Year 11.
A new view of innovation and success
What does it mean to think like an entrepreneur? Answering this question in our Senior School has led to the creation of a new elective unit that focuses on exploration, problem solving and teamwork: Entrepreneurship and Enterprise. A FOCUS ON SOLVING PROBLEMS “We created Entrepreneurship and Enterprise as a Year 9/10 student-led subject that would go beyond the idea of simply making money,” explains Lisa Ritchie, Head of Commerce in the Senior School. “What really stands out when we look at the projects our students have come up with is that they are focused on making people’s lives easier. Their empathy really came out in their ideas.” Students went through each step of the business creation process, from looking at examples of financial models to deciding which problem they would try to solve, how they would create a revenue stream, developing prototypes, and pitching to a panel of teachers who provided honest feedback.
“Probably the most successful part of the subject has been helping students to see that not every idea works, and that’s alright,” Ms Ritchie says. “They’ve learned to take on the feedback of their peers and teachers, evaluate what’s working and what’s not, and change their approach where they can.” PROJECT SNAPSHOT: SUM ENTERPRISE Projects included an app that could help students stay organised, an in-home childcare service and a pet-sitting business. But for one group, helping Melbourne’s homeless population was the idea that resonated most. This group ‘created’ SUM Enterprise, a business focused on Melbourne’s homeless population, distributing care packages that could provide relief from cold and hunger as well as protection from the elements. The idea extended to offering free hair cuts and links to social support organisations.
“To come up with our idea we each discussed the problem from our own point of view and how we thought we could overcome it,” says Barlow Telford, Year 9. “I’ve always wanted to start a business, and this has opened me up to a new way of thinking and being more creative.” “We learned that there were different kinds of businesses, including social enterprises, and that there are different steps to take for each, depending on what your goal is,” adds Year 10 student Henry Sutton. Plus, there were benefits beyond academic learning according to Year 10 student Angus Nicholls. “Because the students in the subject span Year 9 and 10, doing the group work and practical work in this subject has really helped us make friends outside our year level,” he says. “We had to learn to trust each other to get the project done.” SUM Enterprise, from left: Angus Nicholls, Year 10; Silas Pellegrini, Year 9; Barlow Telford, Year 9; Henry Sutton, Year 10; Eugene Cheong, Year 10.
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
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EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT
Finding success by following a craving Success can be built on anything – even an ice cream sandwich. So says Natasha Chiam (OM 2003), who now lives in Singapore and is aiming to create the leading ice cream brand in Southeast Asia and beyond. FROM KITCHEN TABLE TO INTERNATIONAL BRAND “We always say that it started with a craving,” Natasha explains of her decision to make the jump from careers in law and journalism to become a full-time business proprietor. “I started by making ice cream sandwiches at home for my husband. He thought they were so good I moved on to selling them at farmers markets and pop-up events around Singapore,” she says. “One day a friend approached me to ask whether I could make ice cream for his restaurant, and that was the moment I thought my hobby could become a business.” Fast-forward to 2022 and The Ice Cream & Cookie Co. has its own factory, along with the capacity to work with other companies who want to make their own one-off ice cream flavours. “Our clients have included international companies like the Museum of Ice Cream, which came to Singapore from New York looking for a local partner,” Natasha says. “We’re now at the point where we’re starting to look into export markets as well, including Australia.”
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Melbourne Grammar School
BECOMING COMFORTABLE WITH LEADERSHIP When asked what she’s most proud of as a businessperson, Natasha immediately points to her 40-person strong staff. “My initial team members have had to grow and adapt a lot in terms of their skills and mindset, given we have gone from a small market stall to a full-scale manufacturing business,” she says. “It’s been lovely to keep working with people the whole way through and help them grow to new professional heights.” “I’ve grown and changed a lot as well,” Natasha adds. “I’ve been really fortunate to be able to take the business through its development. Running this business has helped me to gain confidence, become more adaptable and grow into more of a leader. You can’t just expect other people to run the show.” “You also have to be open to embracing opportunities as they arise,” she says. “We are still very much in a growth phase, so I need to have a very open mindset to new business ideas.” Thinking back to her Grimwade days, Natasha says her time there offered everything a student could want in a primary school. “It was a safe place to try something new even when I wasn’t that good at it,” she says. “I remember you could always just give something a go. I think that spirit is really essential to being a successful entrepreneur.”
Natasha’s top tips for entrepreneurs • UNDERSTAND THE NUTS AND BOLTS “By being hands on at the start, you understand the challenges your staff will face each day and it helps you to hire the right people to do the work.” • BE SELF-AWARE “Know and build on your strengths and do what you’re really good at. As you build your business, hire people who can take care of areas where you’re not as strong.” • DON’T BE AFRAID OF AIMING HIGH “Open your mind to doing more than you think is possible. That’s where growth lies.”
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
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SCHOOL NEWS
Balancing change and tradition over two decades
As outgoing Director of Finance and Administration (DFA), John Jesson left behind a significant legacy of service to the School when he retired from Melbourne Grammar at the end of Term II, 2022. “This School has always been wonderfully positive place to work, and so different to my previous roles in industry,” says John, who began working at our School in 1999 as Finance Manager. He was appointed as DFA at the start of 2011. “I look back and think: How lucky was I that I saw an ad in the paper for a role at this particular school?”
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Melbourne Grammar School
AN EYE ON THE BIGGER PICTURE In his DFA role, John has had direct involvement with our School Council, School governance, and oversight of the non-teaching functions that support our day-to-day operations. “The big picture for my role is to make sure the framework is in place to sustain our core focus of teaching and learning, and to make sure we don’t become complacent in any aspect of that intent,” he explains. “One of the joys of my job has been its breadth, from working on operational projects to thinking about the strategic direction of the School,” John adds. “I’ll miss the people I’ve worked with, who have been a wonderful support, and I’ll miss coming to work in a place that has such a vibrancy and life to it.”
BALANCING CHANGE WITH TRADITION With characteristic humility, John says his 22 years of service is “a long way” from the 34 given by his predecessor, David Temple. Over that time, he says he has tried to look for opportunities to develop the School, while retaining its core characteristics. “This School is an organisation that works so well,” he says. “I tried to improve things where I could without tearing the fabric, and I think it’s amazing the amount of change we’ve gone through while still preserving what makes us Melbourne Grammar.” Reflecting on these changes, John points to more visible developments, such as the construction of the Geoff Handbury Science and Technology Hub, the upgrade of the kitchens and Luxton Dining Hall, as well as more behind-thescenes work such as the implementation of new IT infrastructure, and overseeing significant aspects of COVID related operational activities.
John Jesson has ‘lived’ Melbourne Grammar for the past 22 years. His steadfast commitment to the School and its betterment has been unquestionable. John has had an incredibly informed and clear-headed perspective on most School matters and I, for one, have found his wise advice incredibly valuable. The School would not be in the strong position that it is today without John’s counsel, management, and dedication, and we should all be very grateful for this. Andrew Michelmore AO, Chair of Council
John is also proud of the role he has played in steps that have been taken to foster closer working relationships between teaching and general staff, and further develop the collegial atmosphere across and between each campus. And what does retirement hold for John? He is looking forward to returning to a long-held passion: restoring vintage radios. “I love the challenge of restoring old radios because you have to approach the task logically,” he says. “They all have their own quirks and their own rewards.”
I returned to the School as Headmaster in January 2020. A few weeks later the COVID-19 pandemic emerged and, apart from managing the normal school operations, we had to manage the rapidly changing nature of the pandemic. Working under enormous pressure, I was grateful for John’s wisdom, calmness, and work ethic, as well as his demonstrable care for our people. I have greatly enjoyed my work with John and appreciate his amazing impact across a broad range of school operations including finance, risk, property, major projects, catering, and IT. I have also enjoyed John’s quirky sense of humour which includes the capacity to laugh at himself. I will miss John and wish him all the very best for his life beyond the bluestone. Philip Grutzner, Headmaster
New appointment Damian Ferguson commenced in the role of Director of Business & Finance in early July 2022. He brings an extensive background in leadership roles within schools. Most recently, Damian held the position of Chief Financial Officer with Knox Grammar School, a K-12 boys’ school in Sydney with enrolments of 3000-day students, plus an additional 200 boarding students. Damian is highly regarded within the education sector, not only for his many achievements, but also for his strong values, work ethic and professionalism.
It has truly been an honour to work with John Jesson. His enormous intellect, organisational skills, attention to detail, recall and enthusiasm is without peer. John has been extraordinarily incisive and highly professional in all his activities albeit often in an understated manner. He has made an immense contribution to the Foundation and its work over the years, and for this, together with his dedication to excellence, we offer our thanks. Julian Smith, President of the Melbourne Grammar School Foundation
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
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SCHOOL NEWS
An open-minded view on spiritual connection
A
s a proud Ngarrindjeri woman, my Anglican faith is connected to my culture. Aboriginal people understand that we’re part of a created order, even if what we call that creator varies from person to person.
While I have never doubted my own faith, I’ve also known that God doesn’t dwell only in our churches. I believe in connecting with spirituality in less formal ways. In fact, for me, it has always been in the garden that I’ve felt closest to God. There, the tension of being insignificant, while also feeling known and loved, rests easy for me. My upbringing was what many might call impoverished. While I didn’t feel I went without anything I needed, I knew we lived on the margins geographically, economically, and socially. It was only as an adult, I found out about my Aboriginal heritage – something my Nan had kept secret at great cost to her – and saw my childhood through a different lens. Today, Aboriginal communities have welcomed me, and I’ve felt free to discover and explore the traditions of my culture. I’m very comfortable with people having different understandings of God. Personally, I’ve experienced a quiet, gentle companionship with God throughout my life, and I’m happy for God to remain largely a mystery. That acceptance has enabled a sense of calm and purpose throughout the turbulence that is a part of living.
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Melbourne Grammar School
We all have to live together in this world, and we all have to make it the best place it can be. I believe that if I’m worrying about our differences, I’m not focused on the things that unite us, which I think are much more prevalent. Joining the Grimwade House community, I’m serving as the first female Chaplain there, the second at the School, and the first with Indigenous heritage. The most important thing I hope to pass on to students is that they are loved by God, and that no matter what their family’s approach to faith is, God will always welcome them. Rev’d Helen Dwyer Grimwade House Chaplain
About Helen Dwyer Rev’d Helen Dwyer is a Priest in the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne who brings deep expertise in Indigenous liaison and parish leadership to Grimwade House. She has previously held positions as the Aboriginal Reconciliation Liaison Officer for Diocese, held previous roles with Centacare Catholic Family Services, the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne and multiple parish churches, including as Parish Priest. Helen currently serves on the Clergy Legislation Review Reference Group and is a member of the Archbishop in Council. Prior to joining Melbourne Grammar School, Helen was the Senior Chaplain at Overnewton Anglican Community College.
Connection and support across generations
A
sense of connection is visible in so many aspects of our School, perhaps none more so than within some of our oldest Houses.
Ross House was established in 1914. It is named after John George (Jack) Ross (OM 1875) and Hugh Macdonald Ross (OM 1876), two brilliant all-rounder brothers. Jack died at a relatively young age and the Ross Gates in Domain Road were given to the School by Hugh and other Old Melburnians in Jack’s memory. Members of Hugh’s immediate family, including his son, grandsons and great-grandsons have all attended Melbourne Grammar School. The Ross brothers’ strong sense of camaraderie, contribution and friendship has defined the spirit of Ross House since its inception. And connections to the House often remain strong well into the years beyond the bluestone. A CULTURE OF PAYING IT FORWARD For House Vice-Captain Hugo Martin, now in Year 12, Ross House is part of the fabric of his family. “My grandfather, Alan Pinkus (OM 1954), was the ViceCaptain of Ross House in the 1950s,
A GIFT FROM A FORMER ROSS HOUSE CAPTAIN
and his brother, Brian Pinkus (OM 1951), was also a Ross House boy,” Hugo explains. “My grandfather’s favourite memories are all from being here. He comes back to see me play sport. He also just stands in front of the Chapel and smiles.”
This enduring tradition of care and connection is exemplified by another Ross House member, the late Peter Siminton (OM 1945), who served as Ross House Captain in 1945.
Having joined the School in Year 9, Hugo knows first-hand how important it is to support the other members of his House. “Ross House has a tradition of Year 12 boys mentoring the Year 9s, and for me, that made something that could’ve been quite intimidating really special,” he says.
His time at Melbourne Grammar is marked by his eagerness to contribute to the House in many areas, including sport. His love of Ross House never left him, meticulously cataloguing objects and photographs from his Ross House days, and subsequently passing them on to the School Archives.
“My Year 12 buddy helped me out from Day One,” Hugo adds. “To me, that ability to connect with whoever you want within the House, no matter their year level, and build relationships through little things like saying hi at the lockers, is so important.” A talented artist, Hugo’s education is supported by the Will Ballantyne Scholarship for the Visual Arts this year. “Art is my passion, so receiving this scholarship validates all my hard work,” Hugo says. “It’s made it twice as special.”
Remembered as a friendly and outgoing Old Melburnian who maintained strong links to our School until his death in 2020, Peter generously gave a bequest to the School through his Will. His gift will enable the establishment of a new scholarship at the School. In this way, Peter’s legacy of kindness and support, as well as his association with Ross House and the School will live on well beyond his lifetime. For a conversation about including a gift to the School in your Will, please contact: Roni Baird Manager, Gifts in Wills +61 3 9865 7632 vgbaird@mgs.vic.edu.au
Ross House Committee, 1945 Peter Siminton sits middle front.
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
17
SCHOOL NEWS
Wadhurst teachers and students share what good leadership and positive relationships look like across their community.
A more inclusive view of leadership
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s a community, Wadhurst is a place where students have opportunities to explore passions and interests, and to build confidence in who they are. It is also where students begin to build a more mature understanding of what we mean by leadership.
At Melbourne Grammar, leadership is focused on positive influence – the work of encouraging others to come together in the service of a larger goal, ideally for the betterment of others. LEADERSHIP AS A CONTINUUM “When we talk about student leadership, we have to accept that it looks quite different from adult leadership,” says Head of Wadhurst Anna-Louise Simpson. “During the middle school years, part of our role is to help students to understand themselves as individuals. Discovering their own particular leadership strengths is part of that.” According to Anna-Louise, building an understanding of leadership is also an opportunity to challenge long-held stereotypes. “There are many paths to manhood, and there are just as many ways in which to serve as good leaders,” she explains. “It could be something as small as working with others on a maths problem or an art project, or it could be as formalised as serving as a peer mentor, a House Captain, or running an assembly. We also publish student writing in formal publications across the year to enable them to provide influence as thought leaders within Wadhurst. Here, ours is a more inclusive, informal view of leadership that’s open to everyone.”
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Melbourne Grammar School
“As students progress through middle school, they’ll have many opportunities to lead, as well as opportunities to learn from others, including Senior School students and young Old Melburnians,” Anna-Louise adds. “This is important to build a sense of aspiration in our students. You cannot be what you do not see.” WHAT A GOOD LEADER LOOKS LIKE For the 2022 Captain and Vice-Captain of Wilhelm House, good leadership has little to do with control, or with being the loudest voice in the room. “Good leaders look out for others,” says Wilhelm Captain Tom Darcy.
“They stand up for the people around them and do the right thing.”
“Leaders can think on the spot, and think not just for themselves but for the whole group,” adds Vice-Captain Tomorrow Zhang. “They’re people who have strong morals and core principles.” Tom and Tomorrow have recently felt what it’s like to take on a major leadership role, working as part of a team that organised and ran a Wadhurst assembly on behalf of Wilhelm House. “We had multiple meetups and revised the script a number of times to prepare,” explains Tomorrow. “We put in a lot of preparation and I think it’s that preparation that made the assembly run smoothly.” “Being a leader changes your views and your actions,” adds Tom. “The whole group of Wilhelm leaders make sure we do our bit.” From left: Tom Darcy and Tomorrow Zhang.
Building empathy and resilience at Wadhurst
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estorative practices – as distinct from restorative justice – are built on the idea that every person has inherent value.
At Wadhurst, we draw on these practices every day as a way to build a learning environment where students feel safe, where success is celebrated, and where mistakes are always viewed as an opportunity to learn. RESTORING RELATIONSHIPS AND CONNECTION After two years of off-campus learning, students the world over have faced challenges returning to the classroom. After an extended period with limited face-to-face contact with their peers, it is only natural that some students may struggle to form connections with others. Addressing this challenge through restorative practices involves making students an active part of the solution. Rather than waiting until conflict arises, we try to build a community that celebrates friendship, encourages students to promote the successes of others, and enables them to resolve issues on their own.
If conflict does arise, we encourage students to move away from assigning blame or looking for excuses. Instead, we focus on ownership, accountability, and responsibility, making sure we recognise students when they make these choices. RESTORATIVE PRACTICES IN ACTION There are many concrete ways in which we have already embedded restorative practices across our middle school curriculum. To begin with, we celebrate personal growth throughout the year not only for students who have achieved academic success but also for those who have reached a new personal best in a particular area. We also take the time to foster connections across Houses, tutor groups and the Wadhurst community as a whole. Through a relationshipcentred approach to education we know that as students come to understand one another better, there’s a far greater chance that they will instinctively treat each other with respect and understanding.
For our teachers, a restorative practices approach involves moving to a stance where we can ask: What happened? What impact did it have on others? What can we do to fix it? We separate the deed from the doer and always have the student at the centre of these discussions, initiating strategies for improved respectful interactions. By taking an approach that values individuals and focuses on relationships, we create a culture where conflict can be prevented before it begins. When our students leave Wadhurst, we hope they will have the emotional literacy and empathy they need to navigate the next stage of their lives. Dan Newton Deputy Head of Wadhurst About Dan Newton Dan Newton has been Deputy Head of Wadhurst since 2016. Prior to this Dan held leadership roles in a range of secondary schools. His current role includes overseeing the campus’s student management and pastoral care programs, as well as daily organisation. Dan holds a Bachelor of Science, and both a Diploma of and Master of Education, the latter from the University of Melbourne.
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
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SCHOOL NEWS
A new classmate brings more joy to Grimwade
S
tudents and parents may have already met the newest member of the Grimwade House community – a remarkably well-behaved Miniature Schnauzer called Axel.
Axel is much more than a cute face at the School gates. A certified therapy dog, his role includes providing emotional support, motivating students, and teaching skills such as teamwork and sharing. HELPING STUDENTS MOVE THROUGH EMOTIONS “There are many benefits to having a therapy dog at the School beyond assisting with social and academic skills,” explains Ben Woodworth, Axel’s owner, and Year 1 teacher at Grimwade. “Spending time with Axel can help students who might be experiencing a difficult moment to move to a more positive, calm state.” Grimwade House psychologist Olivia Cosgrave agrees that therapy dogs can play a valuable role when it comes to navigating transitions and moments of uncertainty. “Therapy dogs are an amazing tool to give young children a distraction while they regulate their emotions,” she says.
“It’s really helpful for students who are having a challenging morning and don’t want to leave their parents, for example, or for those who are upset and aren’t quite able to self-soothe.”
20 Melbourne Grammar School
LEARNING TO SHARE AND CARE FOR OTHERS So, what do Grimwade students think of their new furry classmate? So far, it seems Axel is making a great impression. “It’s really nice to have him here,” says Year 1 student Gussie. “I feel better just by sitting next to him for a minute. He’s always kind.” Apart from his natural calm nature, Axel was selected for the role because his breed is hypoallergenic and doesn’t shed hair. Axel’s training has had an emphasis on safety and obedience to ensure both Axel and the people he engages with always have positive interactions. “Only four people at a time can pat him,” adds Gussie’s friend George. “If there’s more than four people, someone has to wait. At recess and lunch we let other people have a go who aren’t in our class.”
“He always does the right thing,” says George. “He rings a bell so Mr Woodward knows he has to go to the toilet.” Having only spent a short time at Grimwade House thus far, Axel is quickly learning the ropes. Jumping up and taking food from children is not allowed, and he has already learned to walk exactly to the door of his classroom without crossing the line into the hallway. And while it will be an intentionally slow process, Ben is hoping to expand the program to more classes across Grimwade House in the future by creating a bond between Axel and other teachers. “He’s all new to this experience,” says Gussie. “Obviously, this is his first time at a School but he is doing a really good job so far!”
You are invited to a special event
All aboard! Members of our Symphony Orchestra on their tour steam engine.
T
he Melbourne Grammar School Symphony Orchestra will tour regional Victoria in December 2022 for the first time since 2001. Open to the public, we invite all members of the Melbourne Grammar community to come along and enjoy the wonderful music which will be created by around 85 talented musicians. We look forward to your support for these young musicians as they undertake a once in a lifetime musical adventure.
All proceeds will be donated back to the relevant local community. To find out more, and to book your seat, please scan:
December Dates
Venue
Saturday 10, evening Wycheproof Hall Sunday 11, lunchtime
Maryborough Railway Station
Sunday 11, evening
Boort Memorial Hall*
Monday 12, evening
Warrnambool Lighthouse Theatre
Tuesday 13, evening
Sale Wedge Theatre
Wednesday 14, twilight
Buchan Town Hall*
Thursday 15, evening
Swan Hill Riverside Park
Saturday 17, evening
Morundah Paradise Palladium
About the tour Over 9 days and nights, the Melbourne Grammar School Symphony Orchestra will cover the length and breadth of Victoria, from the Gippsland Lakes to the Murray River, from the dairy farms of the Western District to the grain silos of the Mallee. This 3,000km adventure will take place on our own chartered heritage train complete with sleeping carriages, which will be our home as we bring our music to the people of regional Victoria.
The musicians will spend their days discovering the traditional and settlement history of each area, undertaking workshops with local musicians, as well as visiting historic and other local points of interest, and properties of several of our Melbourne Grammar families. They’ll perform at least eight concerts of various sizes and levels of formality in venues great and small. Some nights they’ll perform in modern theatres, others in heritage halls, sometimes in farm sheds and sometimes under the stars.
*Chamber orchestra
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
21
SCHOOL NEWS
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22 Melbourne Grammar School
998 like s tut_the_ pri my Chie nce Now I am th f Advisor. He has a e pharaoh I wan tS great de al of com eti to be mon sen se.
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When young Prince Tutankhamen (Tut) meets his common born doppelganger, Seti, in an Egyptian marketplace, and they decide to trade lives for three days, you know mayhem is about to ensue – and so it does. But, in the tradition of all fine musicals, everything works out in the end with Prince Tut crowned Pharaoh and Seti made his Royal Advisor. Congratulations to the cast and crew of the Year 6 production of Tut, Tut!, especially Grimwade House drama teacher and production director, Annette Curran, on such a wonderful production.
452 likes tut_the_prince s for three days. I’ve got an idea. Let’s trade place
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Year6atGrimwade2022
In addition to Prince Tut and Seti, key roles making the production such a success included Miss Sen (Tut’s tutor), Maia (Tut’s governess), Aat (Tut’s advisor), Seti’s street urchin friends, Tut’s royal attendants and the Hittite entourage of three. The villain of the piece, Seneb, together with her two offsiders, added a nice depth of intrigue. The people in the marketplace, including the camel sellers and other vendors, palace staff, the herald and messenger all brought a vibrancy to the stage. The singing and dancing were superb. And the clever and eye-catching costumes, sets and props added to the charm of the production. And what did the audience think? Our shrivel of Year 5 theatre critics had this to say:
I score it nine stars out of five. There was enough singing but not too much. The transitions were very quick. Monty A.
My favourite part was when Tut and Seti first met and they talked about how their lives were different. Amber H.
953 likes Year6atGrimwade2022 h as we enjoyed We hope you enjoyed the show as muc an, and the crew. putting it on for you! Thank you Ms Curr
It was a great storyline. The singing and choreography was really good. Will H.
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022 23
SCHOOL NEWS
A commitment to understanding and change “For me, reconciliation means aboriginal people and non-Aboriginal people (coming together) to create an awareness of our culture, to share the richness of our ancestors’ knowledge that has been passed down through our bloodlines for hundreds of thousands of years, and to not shy away … from doing so. I believe that … we should all be joining arms with each other in being one unit, one mob.”
T
hese were the stirring words spoken by Caleb Paterson, a young Larrikia and Bunitj man hailing from Darwin and West Arnhem land at the commencement of Reconciliation Week at Melbourne Grammar School this year. Caleb is also a Year 12 boarder and Co-Chair of the Reconciliation Committee at the School. Wadhurst and Senior School students and staff came together to mark this important moment, participating in a smoking ceremony led by an Indigenous elder. They walked through the cleansing smoke to signify their commitment to reconciliation. Grimwade House had held a similar ceremony on Louisa Briggs Day the week before. Students across the School were also treated to performances of traditional dances by our Indigenous students during the week. They were a clear demonstration of the unbroken connection of our Indigenous people to land going back at least 60,000 years. While at Grimwade House, our Wadhurst and Senior School Indigenous students also taught our Prep students an Indigenous song.
24 Melbourne Grammar School
“Reconciliation Week is a significant time in our country. It serves to highlight the importance of our connection between Australia’s First People and those who came to the country later,” says Headmaster Philip Grutzner. “However, as a School, our commitment to taking action to promote reconciliation is steadfast throughout the year.”
At a recent sermon, Grimwade House Chaplain Helen Dwyer, herself a proud Indigenous woman, said: “At School … we teach children to empathise and feel sadness at someone else’s struggle or misfortune without having to feel personal guilt for their situation. It is no different when we consider Indigenous reconciliation. We might not have caused the division, but we have been part of a world that has caused it, and what we do (now) matters.”
Congratulations to our 2021 Indigenous student graduates Pictured at the recent Melbourne Grammar School Indigenous Student Graduation Ceremony, from left: Tyron ‘TJ’ Bin Hitam-Keeffe (OM 2021); Jack Peris (OM 2021); Philip Grutzner, Headmaster (OM 1981); Ariki Lowe (OM 2021); Robbie Ahmat, Indigenous Program Manager.
Community service shapes deeper understanding
S
ervice to the community is embedded in Melbourne Grammar School’s culture. The Senior School Values in Action program offers students the opportunity to participate in a range of community service activities on a voluntary basis.
Co-Chair of the Values in Action committee, Aydin Chowdhury has been involved in the School’s community service activities since joining the School in Year 7. “The more that we put in, the more we get out of it,” he says. “In talking with the people I meet through our Values in Action program, I hear different perspectives and expand my
own horizons. When I talk to people and hear their stories, I learn more about what they are going through.” Weekly activities underway this year include supporting the learning of young students attending less advantaged schools, as well as cooking and serving meals for the homeless and others in need. The Values in Action committee also organised a drive to collect lightly used sporting shoes for the Boots for All social inclusion program during Term II. Students will embark on an Indigenous immersion trip at Cape York in September 2022.
While we understand that service should never be done only to benefit oneself, the wonderful consequence of helping others through these programs is that students gain an understanding of those who may be different to oneself, and learn firsthand about the importance of respect, kindness, and empathy towards others. “I believe we are at our best when we are ‘other person’ centred and focused on enriching the lives of people around us, particularly those in need,” says Head of Service Learning, Mark Horsford. “It’s often surprising to the students to learn that, despite different backgrounds, we all have much in common.”
Senior School Values in Action – Semester 1 summary
16
activities
267
students involved in activities
1182 hours of service
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022 25
SCHOOL NEWS
Students make their mark on Motor Works “When you first look at it, you might not realise that each element represents a different House, but then it clicks,” says Year 12 student Oscar Sutton, one of two secretaries of the 2022 Art Committee. “Working with Heesco we learned about sketching, blocking, and how much fine detail you can create by just using spray paint.”
V
isitors to Senior School’s Motor Works precinct may have already noticed the brand new, boldly decorated exterior to the visual arts space. This is the result of a collaborative effort between members of our student-led Art Committee and one of our most recent artist-in-residence – Mongolian-Australian artist, Heesco.
The mural represents emblems of some of the Senior School Houses, an idea that came together during the students’ first session with Heesco.
26 Melbourne Grammar School
Heesco initially spent a few weeks with Art Committee members last year, collectively planning and sketching the mural. However, following this, a bout of COVID related off-campus learning meant that the painting of the artwork had to wait until 2022. “Once we started painting, the mural came together in just a couple of days, which I thought was impressive,” Oscar says.
“It’s rewarding to work with young people and to see the potential of their skills,” says Heesco, who is well known for his murals on streetscapes and on structures as large as silos and major city buildings. “I told them: If you want to start making work like this, you just have a grab a brush.” “I love the way this kind of work brings art into contact with so many different types of people, and how it turns the street into a gallery,” Heesco adds. “The members of the Art Committee really wanted to be part of the process of making a mark on the School itself,” explains Head of Creative and Performing Arts and Committee mentor, Adam Cawood. “While the process was put on hold for a time, the end result shows that an Artist-in-Residence program doesn’t necessarily need to be long to provide a worthwhile learning experience for students.”
A timetable change leads to new opportunities for learning
T
he introduction of a class-free ‘Utility’ period in the Senior School timetable has meant that students are available for activities beyond the traditional curriculum during that time. This has enabled a new initiative which focuses on a different approach to learning to commence.
“We wanted to give students a voice and present on their area of interest,” explains Jack Flintoft, 2022 Captain of School. “However, we also encouraged them to work with a teacher who shared their interest to help to establish a connection between the student and teacher outside their classroom.”
After discussions between Ben Hanisch, Deputy Headmaster & Head of Senior School and the Student Leadership team, the idea of student/staff seminars was born.
Five diverse 15-minute seminars ran on rotation during one of the Utility periods in May. There were presentations on mythology, European swordsmanship, and the Parthenon, as well as workshops on conducting an orchestra and manga and anime.
Students and staff were invited to collaborate and present short seminars on a common area of interest.
“Empowering students to be active agents in their own learning is important,” explains Ben. “However, it is also important for them to understand that learning is not just about a mark. We are a school of ideas and, here, learning should be about passion and interest, and include excitement and joy. It was good for all students to see this in action.” “Audience members wouldn’t necessarily bring any background in the specificity of the ideas that were presented,” adds Jack. “The students learnt not only about new fields not covered by the curriculum but also something about their fellow students as well.” Reflecting on the success of the initiative, Ben believes there is room to continue to develop the program. “The student/ staff seminars complement the Andrew Prentice seminars which are similar in principle, but the presentations are longer so more preparation is needed,” he says. “We’d like to run the short form seminars again, together with more student-led activities. I can see the program growing in the future.” About the Utility period A Utility period is scheduled once per week at the same time for all Year 11 and 12 students. Year 9 and 10 students have their Utility period scheduled at this same time, but only on a fortnightly basis. In addition to the staff/student seminars, activities thus far have included personal development workshops, camp preparation meetings, career presentations, and school photos and well as sitting School assessed coursework (SACs) in VCE subjects.
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022 27
OLD MELBURNIANS
Thindika Amarasekara
C
hange can be daunting at the best of times. Not long after a global pandemic, we are facing a new political landscape, an energy crisis, soaring living costs, and a renewed urgency for de-carbonisation that is redefining what some of us do.
These drivers of change affect us differently. But through it all, there is at least one constant: community. I hope we all have a community we can fall back on for support, encouragement and inspiration. This may be your family, your church, your sporting club, or your friends. This is where the Old Melburnians Society fits in. We are a 17,000 strong community of past students bound by shared cultural values and experiences arising from our time at Melbourne Grammar School. This community supports every student who has attended Melbourne Grammar, regardless of their year of graduation.
28 Melbourne Grammar School
A constant during periods of change The Old Melburnians Council is the governing body of this community. We operate as a Board and, through seven sub-committees, deliver an annual program of initiatives to support and inspire our Old Melburnians, and even our current students. Council Members are volunteers with careers and families. We are passionate about the School and are focused on helping Old Melburnians to ‘connect and grow’. We ‘connect’ Old Melburnians through the annual Business Breakfast, our OM Journeys speaker series, year group reunions, our numerous sporting clubs and interest groups, and through the Annual Dinner. This year, we are launching a new initiative to help our female alumni feel more connected, and we look forward to welcoming them back to Grimwade House for a celebration on 17 November 2022. Other initiatives such as the Dick Cotton Fellowship, our acclaimed Career Masterclass, and Year 12 Careers Night, are designed to help Old Melburnians ‘grow’ their professional network, their confidence, and their perspectives.
As the world changes around you, remember that you belong to one of the oldest school alumni communities in Australia. A conversation with an old school friend you’ve not seen in decades, guidance from a mentor, or a tip from someone who ‘has been there’ can help immensely. I encourage all Old Melburnians to explore what this community can offer, to join in and perhaps even help your fellow Old Melburnians. The 142nd Annual Dinner on 18 August at the MCC, is a great way to reconnect with each other, and my fellow Councillors. I am delighted to introduce the 2022 Council on the next page. Feel free to reach out to us at om@mgs.vic.edu.au if you are interested in becoming involved with The Old Melburnians. Thindika Amarasekara (OM 1991) President of the Old Melburnians Council
Old Melburnians Council OLD MELBURNIAN COUNCIL ROLES Executive Thindika Amarasekara – President Martin Scott – Vice President and Honorary Treasurer Bill Cowan – Vice President Andrew Sutcliffe – Honorary Secretary
General Members Will Alstergren Marc Cuming Anton Leschen
Jeremy Nichols Charles Thompson Rohan Workman
OLD MELBURNIAN COUNCIL MEMBERS
The Hon Will Alstergren Thindika Amarasekara QC AO (OM 1980) (OM 1991)
Bill Cowan AM (OM 1962)
Marc Cuming (OM 1983)
Anton Leschen (OM 1983)
Will is the Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia. He is passionate about celebrating the School values, supporting the governance of the OMs, and in providing career guidance for young OMs.
Thindika is a Managing Director in corporate finance at a global investment bank. A former Captain of School, Thindika has three sons currently attending Melbourne Grammar.
Bill is a renowned author and executive career coach. He supports the Career Pathways Committee and helped launch and build the OM Career Masterclass which supports young OMs to pursue their goals.
Marc works in wealth management and has a 146-year connection to Melbourne Grammar across five generations. Marc is a member of the Finance Committee, Annual Dinner Committee and is the liaison point for the OM Clubs.
Anton has over 30 years’ experience in the community sector, leading child, youth and family services including the Smith Family. Anton leads the Fellowship and Community Committee and supports Special Events.
Jeremy Nichols (OM 1983)
Martin Scott QC (OM 1980)
Andrew Sutcliffe (OM 1986)
Charles Thompson (OM 1987)
Rohan Workman (OM 2004)
Jeremy is the founder of a management consulting firm. An avid supporter of the OM Football Club, he leads the Communication and Database Committee, and is a member of the Clubs Committee.
Martin is a commercial barrister and is the Vice President, Honorary Treasurer, and Chair of the Finance Committee. He was inspired to join the Council by the example of his late father who led the Melbourne Grammar School Foundation.
Andrew works in largescale infrastructure and is part of four generations who have attended Melbourne Grammar. His grandfather Joe Sutcliffe was Headmaster from 1938 until 1949. Andrew chairs the Annual Dinner Committee and is a member of the Finance Committee.
Charles is a former lawyer and consultant with corporate and not-for-profit Board experience. He now runs his own strategy and investment advisory, and an ecotourism operation. Charles leads Career Pathways Committee.
Rohan works in venture capital and entrepreneurship and is passionate about supporting founders to build significant and sustainable companies. Rohan leads the Special Events Committee which includes the Business Breakfast and OM Journeys.
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022 29
OLD MELBURNIANS
Old Melburnian clubs General information OMLink.org mgs.vic.edu.au/old-melburnians Athletics Harrison Roubin (OM 2013), President oldmelburniansac.com Bowls Barry Fleming (OM 1958), President bnfleming1@optusnet.com.au Cricket Tom Healey (OM 2008), President trhealey1@hotmail.com Drama Club Andrew Brookes (OM 1974), President andrewdbrookes@icloud.com Football Steve Mattingly (OM 1980), Secretary www.omfc.com.au Golf David Court (OM 1981), President dcourt@gafcontrol.com.au Hockey Stuart Allen (OM 1989), President stuarta@7mail.com The Lodge Richard Burman (OM 1955), Secretary richard@rawburman.com.au The Lodge meets at: Uniting Church 36 St Edmonds Road Prahran 3181 Melburnia Club (Rowing) John Michelmore (OM 1979), President jrmich@tpg.com.au Soccer Jon-Paul Michail (OM 2008), President omsc.org.au Table Tennis Douglas Tsoi (OM 2004), Presidentdouglastsoi87@gmail.com Water Polo Harry Lovelock (OM 2016), President harrylovelock4@outlook.com
30 Melbourne Grammar School
Joining an Old Melburnian Club is a great way for Old Melburnians to connect with others who have similar interests. New members – both men and women - of all ages and abilities are always welcome at each club. While expertise and experience is well received, it is not required to join. While some of the clubs are competitive, there is also an emphasis is on friendship and fun with social activities forming an important part of the Club’s activities. Members can take on a variety of roles in most clubs including as team players, helping behind the scenes, volunteers and supporters. Most Clubs also welcome members who are not Old Melburnians themselves but might have a connection to the School through family or friends. Our Clubs welcome all Old Melburnians, including women who attended Grimwade House. Two new clubs have been formed in recent years. You’ll find further information about them below. Contact details are included on the left, and we encourage you to get in touch with the Club that interests you to find out more. If you are interested in starting a new Old Melburnian club, or have any questions at all, please contact the Club’s liaison person on The Old Melburnians Council, Marc Cuming (OM 1983), via om@mgs.vic.edu.au
Old Melburnians Drama Club The Old Melburnian Drama Club staged its first production in 2015. Rehearsals are about to commence for its upcoming production, the comedic The Whole Darn Shooting Match by Jack Perry. It will be staged in October 2022. If you are interested in being part of this, or future, productions, the club would love to hear from you. Those wishing to contribute to the production by undertaking backstage duties are also welcome. There are a wide variety of roles to be filled. Experience, while desirable, is not always necessary. Contact details are provided at left. Bookings for the 2022 production will open mid-September. Scan to find out more about Old Melburnian Clubs
2022 The Old Melburnians Dick Cotton Fellowship Enabling young Old Melburnians to continue practicing Melbourne Grammar School’s Values in Action The Dick Cotton Fellowship provides a cash grant of up to $5000 to support and encourage younger Old Melburnians to act for the benefit of others.
Old Melburnian Table Tennis Club The Old Melburnian Table Tennis Club is looking for new members interested in playing competitive and/or social table tennis. All games are played at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC). Formed in 2019, the club competes in the Table Tennis Victoria Premiership League. These games are played on a Wednesday evening, with training occurring on a Sunday morning and at another time during the week as determined by the individual players. There are also social games played on a Sunday morning. A great way to meet up with fellow Old Melburnians, people with all levels of experience are welcome at this activity. Contact details are provided at left.
The Old Melburnians
2022 ANNUAL DINNER Date:
7.00pm, 18 August 2022
Location: Melbourne Cricket Ground Speakers: Michael Veitch (OM 1980)
Santo Cilauro (Melbourne Grammar Past Parent) Mike McLeish (OM 1992) Bookings: bit.ly/OMAnnualDinner2022
Funds can be used for training, study, travel, or other expenses related to a project or volunteer work which helps communities in need. Old Melburnians aged 30 and under are encouraged to apply as groups or individuals. Applications will be reviewed by the Old Melburnians Council and awarded based on merit and impact. The 2021 recipient, Tom Akhurst (OM 2016), says: “I am incredibly grateful for support to enable me to train with Lifeline and join its ranks as a telephone crisis support worker. As humans, we rely on each other for comfort, reassurance and understanding. Sadly, many people do not have access to that important human connection. This is the void Lifeline works tirelessly to help fill.” Old Melburnians Council Member and General Manager of the Smith Family, Anton Leschen (OM 1983), leads this initiative and is available to discuss your application. Anton says: “My career in community service has taught me how rewarding it is to help others. The Dick Cotton Fellowship is a resource that can enable you to help people facing hardship. I encourage you to marshal your passion, skill, and networks, and use this opportunity to put your ideas into action.” Applications open on Monday 25 July 2022. For more information and to apply online: https://www.mgs.vic.edu.au/om-fellowship Questions? om@mgs.vic.edu.au +61 3 9865 7682
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022
31
OLD MELBURNIANS
Old Melburnian Reunions 1
2
3
4
5
6
1. 1950, 1951 & 1952 (70 year) reunion attendees 2. 1980 (40 year) reunion attendees 3. 1981 (40 year) reunion attendees
32 Melbourne Grammar School
4. 1982 (40 year) reunion attendees 5. 1990 (30 year) reunion attendees 6. 1991 (30 year) reunion attendees
7
8
9
10
11
7. 1992 (30 year) reunion attendees 8. 1961 (60 year) reunion attendees 9. 1962 (60 year) reunion attendees
10. 1970 (50 year) reunion attendees 11. 1972 (50 year) reunion attendees
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022 33
HISTORY AND RECOLLECTIONS
1942 Library Committee. Pierre Gorman sits middle front row.
A gift of care and affection
S
ometimes the smallest of objects represents the biggest of things. This is a story about a small wooden serviette ring and the warm relationship between a young boy and a School leader of great note that it represents. Grimwade House was only seven years old when Harold Down became its second Principal in 1925. He would remain in this position until his retirement in 1952.
A man of intellect, scholarship and great drive, he soon gathered around him a very capable teaching staff and Grimwade became a most efficient preparatory school, in which relationships between boys and staff were most congenial. The Melburnian, No. 96, 1970
During this time boarders were welcome at the Prep to Year 8 campus and one such person was Pierre Gorman (OM 1942). Pierre commenced boarding at Grimwade House in 1930, when he was six years old. He completed his schooling at Melbourne Grammar, graduating in 1942. Harold Down
34 Melbourne Grammar School
Pierre went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree and an Honours Diploma in Education in 1949, and with a Bachelor of Education degree in 1951, all from the University of Melbourne. In 1960 he completed a PhD at the University of Cambridge. Due to his studies in the area, together with his work at the Royal National Institute for Deaf People in London and his collaboration with Sir Richard Paget to develop the Paget Gorman Sign System, Pierre became recognised as world authority on deaf communication. Gorman received the ANZAC of the Year Award in 1981 and the following year was awarded the National Medal for his devotion to improving services for the hearing and speech impaired. He was honoured as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1983 for services to the disabled.
Obituaries The School has learnt of the following deaths in our community. We extend our sympathy to their families and friends.
These achievements might seem all the more remarkable when you learn that Pierre Gorman was born profoundly deaf and, in his time, this attribute limited the lives of many of those with it. Down had served as an apprentice carpenter early in his working life before training as a teacher. His interest in woodwork never left him and such was his care for Pierre Gorman beyond his days at Grimwade House, that he hand carved and presented the pictured serviette ring to Pierre upon his graduation from Melbourne Grammar. “There was a great close affection between us and he gave me this serviette ring when I left the Big School (now known as Senior School) in December 1942,” wrote Pierre when he donated the ring to School Archives in 1974. Such was the value that Pierre placed upon the humble item, that he retained the ring for almost 30 years before ensuring its longevity by gifting it to the School.
Allen, R G (OM 1959)
McPherson, A P (OM 1973)
Armstrong, J R (OM 1955)
Millear, G E (OM 1951)
Atkins, R B (OM 1947)
Newton, M J L (OM 1941)
Barnard, R E (OM 1952)
Potter, R T (OM 1944)
Braham, M E (OM 1954)
Price, R C (OM 1949)
Brown, P W E (OM 1961)
Richardson, L I (OM 1950)
Bryson AM, J N B (OM 1954)
Riebl, M (OM 2009)
Bland, R A (OM 1976)
Risbey, B E (OM 1969)
Burbank, M E (OM 1956)
Riley, C D (OM 1974)
Carolane OAM, D G (OM 1947)
Robertson, G S (OM 1952)
Chancellor, R C (OM 1950)
Shears, M L (OM 1970)
Dane, P C (OM 1946)
Southwell, E J S (OM 1940)
Darby, R J L (OM 1970)
Spooner, J B (OM 1957)
Davie, A N (OM 1946)
Stribling, E (OM 1943)
Dawkins, B J (OM 1951)
Thwaites, J A (OM 1943)
Deane, D G (OM 1955)
Turnbull, R S (OM 1956)
Evans, P W C (OM 1950)
Twigg, A A (Past Staff)
Finlay, W H (OM 1952)
Van Valzah, W R (OM 1951)
Gardner, R H (OM 1945)
Vickery, P N (OM 1967)
Guest, A W (OM 1943)
Wade, B (OM 1952)
Hallebone, N J (OM 1980)
Walford, D N S (OM 1978)
Handyside, S T (OM 1961)
Way, F W (OM 1952)
Hanson, C W (OM 1942)
Weight, T R (OM 1976)
Hooper, J N (OM 1968)
Weir, R (OM 1947)
Hill, D G (OM 1950)
Wilson, D G (OM 1961)
Kaufman, P S (OM 1962)
Wilson, R L (OM 1970)
King, L R (OM 1949)
Woodfield, B R G (OM 1949)
Lowry, I B (OM 1961)
Woolcott, E S H (OM 1994)
McAlister, I M (OM 1948) McKaige, R W (OM 1945)
Obituaries 2010 to present A full list of obituaries from 2010 is available a news.mgs.vic.edu.au Do you have a recent obituary to report? Please contact us if you are aware of a death in the Melbourne Grammar School community. mgs@mgs.vic.edu.au
Grammar News No. 140 – July 2022 35
FEATURED ARTWORK
Kangaroo by Katherine C. (Year 2) Mixed media (pencil, pastel, charcoal and paint) on cartridge paper.
Melbourne Grammar School 355 St Kilda Road, Melbourne Victoria 3004 Australia +61 3 9865 7555 | mgs@mgs.vic.edu.au
CRICOS No 00977J
