Mentor Autumn 2016 by Mentone Grammar

THE MAGAZINE OF MENTONE GRAMMAR

| ISSUE 1 | 2016

MENTOR

SIX PREMIERSHIPS:

A SENSATIONAL SUMMER OF SPORT

10-14

NIGHT AT THE OPERA! A ORLANDO, OUR FIRST CUT OPERA PRODUCTION A SPECTACULAR SUCCESS

26-27

THE MENTONIANS: EVENTS, FUNCTIONS AND GREAT MEMORIES

35-41

Mentor Published by Mentone Grammar Editor Jen Blackburn

Contributors With thanks to: Simon Appel OAM - Chair, Mal Cater - Principal, Stuart Bainbridge, Amanda Barnhoorn, Peter Bratuskins, Rae Byrom, Libby Chislett, Gavin Cornish, Fiona Dallas, Louise Daly, James Davidson, Maree Dinger, Pernilla Eklund Allan, Deb Frizza - Deputy Principal, Joanne Kamp, Jenny Lamb, Cameron Lancaster, P&F Committee, Janine Mayer, Natalie McLennan, Bill McTigue, Vanessa Moore, Katherine Nish, John Nolan, Jarrod Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill - Deputy Principal, Mark Pearman - TMA President, Catherine Poulton, Leigh Rowlands, John Twist, Greg Wilkinson - TMA Editor, Natalie Wilson, Ben Wolstencroft, Danny Yardis - Graphic Designer Cover A new benchmark in theatre at Mentone Grammar. The talented cast of Orlando take a bow.

The Mentor magazine is produced on paper that has been sourced in an environmentally-friendly, socially responsible and economically viable manner.

Mentone Grammar 63 Venice Street Mentone Victoria 3194 Australia Tel: +61 3 9584 4211 Fax: +61 3 9581 3290 enquiry@mentonegrammar.net ABN 87 616 069 977 CRICOS: 00323C Founded: 1923

CONTENTS 01 WELCOME TO MENTONE GRAMMAR 02

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME

There is a lot to be excited about in relation to the School...

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS

STRATEGIC PLAN 2016-2020

Our Strategic Plan 2016 – 2020 contains six strategic pillars. In striving to further improve these areas of strength, we continue to provide our students, staff, families and School Community with a school of which they can be proud.

06-07 OUR 2015 VALEDICTORIANS At the end of 2015 we farewelled a dynamic Year 12 cohort, that had achieved so highly and excelled in so many ways across all facets of the School.

08-09 OUR LEADERS Leadership positions at Mentone Grammar are a much sought after privilege for aspiring student leaders in Eblana, Bayview and Frogmore.

10 A SENSATIONAL SUMMER OF SPORT TENNIS PREMIERS 2016! ... it was quite apparent that we had the right blend of players to press for a potential premiership – experience, exuberant youth and good doubles players.

BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL PREMIERS!

In a summer of sport that yielded so much success, it was our courageous First Volleyball team that most surprised the competition...

12-13 SWIMMING PREMIERSHIPS 2016 MORE SUCCESS, RECORDS, SILVERWARE! The 2016 AGSV Swimming Carnival saw the third consecutive win for both our girls’ and boys’ teams. It was an outstanding effort from the teams and just reward for all of the swimmers’ hard work.

14 OUR SUMMER OF PREMIERSHIPS - SURF LIFESAVING CHAMPIONS A hot, blustery day on the beach at Mordialloc did not deter our Surf Lifesavers as local knowledge and a summer of training brought out the best in our beach athletes.

26-27 A NIGHT AT THE OPERA! In May, it was our privilege to stage the first in a series of Cut Opera productions for the School. Our intention was to provide our very talented senior students with the opportunity to explore the unique performance challenges...

28-29 WINTER CONCERT 2016 30-31 FOUNDERS’ DAY 2016 Mentone Grammar was founded in 1923 and, in March, the School came together to celebrate this momentous occasion. Our Founders identified the need for an independent School in this area which, in those days, was a beach holiday location.

15 WELCOME TO OUR EARLY LEARNING CENTRE

32-33 COMMUNITY EVENTS PARENTS AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION

16-17 EBLANA ELC-YEAR 4

34 MENTONE GRAMMAR FOUNDATION BUILDING FUND

It has been a busy semester for our Foundation - Year 4 classes. I am happy to report that all of our students are well and truly immersed in their learning and are loving life in Eblana.

THE MENTONIANS

18-19 BAYVIEW MIDDLE YEARS 5-8

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

36-37 FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS

What an energetic start to the year!

20-21 GREENWAYS YEAR 9 CAMPUS

As the Captain of the 2011 Boys’ Premiership Swimming team Marcel Walkington (2011) led by his actions, not by his words.

Greenways students commenced the 2016 school year with great enthusiasm.

22-23 FROGMORE SENIOR YEARS 10-12 Once again, I have been impressed with the high level of commitment and engagement our students bring to the Frogmore Campus each day.

24-25 OUR DANCE SPECTACULAR! Our 2016 Dance Performance Evening with a Star Wars twist took place on 4 May.

MARCEL’S 2020 CHALLENGE

39 FROM PEN AND PAPER TO DIGITAL 40-41 TMA COMMUNITY NEWS 42 VALE

WELCOME TO MENTONE GRAMMAR MENTONE GRAMMAR IS A LEADING COEDUCATIONAL ELC – VCE SCHOOL IN BAYSIDE, MELBOURNE. OUR HIGHLY REGARDED COEDUCATIONAL MODEL OF SEPARATE GENDER CLASSES IN YEARS 5 – 9, INCLUDING A SEPARATE YEAR 9 CAMPUS, ARE JUST A FEW OF THE ADVANTAGES OF A MENTONE GRAMMAR EDUCATION. OUR SCHOOL PROVIDES THE VERY BEST IN PASTORAL CARE, A PURSUIT OF INDIVIDUAL SUCCESS AND A GREAT SCHOOL SPIRIT. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT OUR SCHOOL, WE INVITE YOU TO COME AND SEE US IN ACTION.

Note from the Registrar

As a result, we continue to experience high levels of interest in enrolments. Our waiting lists continue to grow in all year levels, across all year levels and the best way to ensure a place for your child/children is to be registered with us. We currently have waiting lists stretching out to 2029 in key intake year levels such as our Middle School, Years 5 to 8.

Early this year I started my new role at the School as the Registrar. The office of the Registrar is a busy, dynamic place where Jan Longworth, our Enrolment Officer, and I oversee a broad range of activities in support of student enrolments. In Term 2 2016, we have 959 boys and 510 girls enrolled in the School, a total of 1469 local and international students.

Our invitation to attend both scheduled and private School Tours held during Terms 1 and 2 attracted more than 250 interested families who enjoyed meeting and hearing from our School leaders about the educational opportunities available for their sons and daughters at Mentone Grammar.

The Heads of Campus have been busy interviewing prospective students and meeting their parents or guardians and we have now commenced the Mary Jones Early Learning Centre and Eblana (Junior School ) 2017 enrolments. We are currently finalising our placements for 2017/18 in our Years 5–12 Campuses; with limited places still available in the Middle Years (5–8), Greenways (Year 9) and Frogmore (Years 10–12).

We have upcoming School Tours on Saturday 13 August and Thursday 20 October and we invite prospective students and their families to visit us at our Mentone Campus to see our School in action. Please register online or contact me if you wish to arrange a private tour or have any enrolment related enquiries.

The demand for places at Mentone Grammar is very high - so I strongly recommend that you register your interest now. The School is in a very dynamic growth phase due to solid academic performances; the development of our much-anticipated Creativity Centre; higher levels of performance in Sport, Drama, Dance, Art and Music along with the careful nurturing of fine young people.

I look forward to welcoming you to our Community. PERNILLA EKLUND ALLAN - REGISTRAR

01 Pernilla Eklund Allan welcomes our new families to the School. 02 Demand for places in the Junior years is at an all-time high in 2016.

GIRLS BOYS TOTAL

ELC

EBLANA

79 127 206

101

BAYVIEW 157 320 477 GREENWAYS 57 117 174 FROGMORE

181

Totals

510 959 1469

330

511

SCHOOL TOURS Our next School Tour dates for 2016:

TOGETHERAPARTTOGETHER ELC-YEAR 4

YEAR 5-9

YEAR 10-12

Saturday 13 August 2016 and Thursday 20 October 2016 Please visit our website for our School Tour dates. To book, visit: www.mentonegrammar.net

Outstanding Coeducational Opportunities ELC-12

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME 01 Mal Cater Principal. 02 An inspiring start to the year - six summer premierships! 03 Mal Cater welcomes Rae Byrom to the School in her role as Director of Development.

Be kind, be hardworking, want to achieve and be humble. Acknowledge one another’s good deeds and good work. Mal Cater - Day 1, 2016

There is a lot to be excited about in relation to the School when you consider that: -- we achieved some of our best ever VCE Results at the end of 2015 placing us in the Top 50 Schools in the State -- the largest building project ever undertaken by the School is currently underway -- we won six Premierships in the Summer Season -- we have record enrolments and there are so many happy, healthy, high achieving people who come to this place each day!

Our Strategic Plan is appropriately entitled “It Takes a Village to Raise a Child”. As a genuine community School we value the input everyone makes to ensure that our School is successful. The six pillars of our Plan are: -- Teacher quality -- Academic Development -- Cocurricular opportunities -- Safe, Healthy, Caring Environments -- Strong Governance -- Enrolment Profile

All of this and debt free.

Further detail on each of these pillars can be found on the School’s website and overleaf on page 5.

This is not a bad equation when you consider the elements that make it up. There is evidence in this ‘equation’ of high level programs, high level staff, quality governance, an amazing Master Plan taking shape and a culture of high achievement in place. Such things do not just happen but, when a group of people come together with a desire to achieve highly in a range of areas, amazing things will be achieved. Such is the case at the School at this time but it should never be taken for granted and, with a strong, new 2016-2020 Strategic Plan in place, the continued success of the School seems assured.

As a School Community we need to continue aspiring to even better than we have already achieved. It is when we embed a zero tolerance of poor performance that we will be an ongoing, high achieving school – this is well and truly possible and must be something we all continue to aspire to. This copy of the Mentor, once again, provides you with a snapshot of some of the activities going on in the School. We welcome visitors to the School to showcase our wonderful environment.

I hope you enjoy reading this edition of the Mentor and l look forward to your involvement in the School and all it offers.

Welcome - DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT I join the School Community in welcoming Rae Byrom to the School and wishing her well for a rewarding career at Mentone Grammar. Rae comes with extensive experience in marketing and development in both the school and corporate sectors. Most recently she was Communications and Marketing Manager at Ivanhoe Grammar School for 11 years where she helped navigate the change of the school from a boys only to a coeducational one. She has extensive client management experience and comes with a wealth of knowledge of digital and offline marketing and communications initiatives. Prior to Ivanhoe, Rae worked in the corporate sector in client management both in the UK and Australia. She is very much looking forward to working with our Community. We are delighted to have another high level professional join our staff.

MAL CATER - PRINCIPAL 02

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

BOARD OF DIRECTORS REPORT 01 01 Simon Appel OAM - Chair of the Board of Directors. 02 Students enjoying the inviting surrounds of the Campus. 03 The much anticipated Creativity Centre looms large on the landscape.

THIS YEAR, OUR FOUNDERS’ DAY CELEBRATION WAS HELD ON THE EVE OF SPORTING FINALS IN WHICH MENTONE GRAMMAR PARTICIPATED IN SIX GRAND FINALS. THIS SPORTING SUCCESS CONFIRMS THE PROGRESS BEING MADE IN COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AT THE SCHOOL. WE ARE MOST PLEASED WITH THE VCE SUCCESS SCORES FOR 2015. THE SCHOOL IS PLACED IN THE TOP 50 SCHOOLS AND THE BOARD CONGRATULATES THE PRINCIPAL, TEACHING STAFF, AND ESPECIALLY THE 2015 VCE STUDENTS ON THESE ACHIEVEMENTS.

The strong developments in educational improvement are flowing through the School at all levels and we acknowledge the contributions made by teaching staff in pursuing these contemporary teaching strategies. The Board has approved the Strategic Plan for 2016 – 2020 which has been provided to the School Community. The Strategic Plan describes the objectives for this period and includes ongoing focus on the ‘village’ as the essence of Mentone Grammar student development and education. I urge the community to view the Strategic Plan, with particular reference to the Principal’s descriptions for the years ahead. The Board is also pleased to see increasing student numbers. We have an excellent coeducational mix which benefits from the infrastructure developments together with the

teaching staff focus on a caring environment. Directors receive regular presentations from senior staff who describe the educational environment, both present and future. The education objectives are exciting, and follow extensive research into the needs of the developing young people in our complex environment. This information is of great value to Directors, and we encourage parents and carers to avail themselves of these ‘update’ opportunities as they become available.

Finance The School audited Annual Report has been completed with Auditors providing an unqualified Audit Report for the 2015 year.

03 finance and accounting staff, has completed a strong financial outcome for the year confirming the School’s secure financial base for the future.

Infrastructure It is pleasing to reflect on the substantial infrastructure developments completed over the past ten years, all of which have been completed within set budgets and timelines. These developments follow a needs analysis for each development. Construction of the Creativity Centre is now well under way and we look forward to Term 1, 2017 when the School will access this new facility. SIMON APPEL OAM - CHAIR

Our Business Manager, Ms Nicole Bradshaw, guided by the Principal and together with the

QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS

02 01

Professor Glenn Bowes AO (1996)

Mr Geoffrey Ryan AM (1965)

WARM CONGRATULATIONS TO TWO MENTONIANS FOR BEING NAMED IN THE 2016 QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS LIST. HONOURS FOR MENTONIANS PROFESSOR GLENN BOWES AO AND MR GEOFFREY RYAN AM.

PROFESSOR GLENN BOWES AO (1966)

MR GEOFFREY RYAN AM (1965)

Professor Bowes has been named an Officer in the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to medical education and its administration, to the advancement of child health and welfare, and through contributions to government and professional organisations.

Mr Geoffrey Ryan AM (1965) has been named a Member in the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to secondary education, particularly in the independent schools sector, and to professional organisations.

Professor Bowes attended Mentone Grammar from 1958 to 1966 and went on to complete a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Monash University followed by a PhD in respiratory physiology. He then completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Toronto. Throughout his illustrious career, Glenn has served many organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people. He is currently on the board of Anglicare Victoria and was also a member of the Mentone Grammar Board from 2006 until June 2011.

Following his studies at Mentone Grammar, Geoff completed his university degree and returned to the School in 1970 to teach commerce and over the course of the next 12 years went on to become the Head of the Commerce Department, Director of Studies, Senior Master and acting Deputy Headmaster. Geoff moved to St Michael’s School in 1983 and was later appointed Principal of Westbourne Grammar School in 1990. Geoff’s dedication to teaching and independent education has been further exemplified in his service to numerous external educational bodies, including Chair of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia and a board member of Teaching Australia. Geoff is a current Mentone Grammar Board Member.

Labore et Honore.

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

“It Takes a Village to Raise a Child”

STRATEGIC PLAN

2016-2020

The traditional African proverb, “It Takes a Village to Raise a Child” has been widely quoted. It is never more applicable than in today’s interconnected, global world. Today’s youth are growing up in a fast paced, multifaceted society that relies on strong partnerships between the family, the school and the community. These partnerships are necessary to allow students to develop the skills and receive the support needed to influence the opportunities and challenges they will face.

SIX STRATEGIC PILLARS

1 TEACHER QUALITY Developing the structures to support continued teacher development.

2 ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT Researching and implementing best practice in teaching and learning.

3 COCURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES Providing students with a range of choice from an extensive cocurricular program.

4 SAFE, HEALTHY, CARING ENVIRONMENTS Researching and implementing best practice in student wellbeing and staff support.

5 STRONG GOVERNANCE

ontinuing our tradition of high level transparent governance C and ensuring sustainability across the organisation.

6 ENROLMENT PROFILE Continuing to promote Mentone Grammar as a coeducational school as our girls numbers continue to increase beyond 500.

OUR 2015 VALEDICTORIANS

Prize giving Ceremony February 2016: Dux 2015 Jaidyn Muhandiramge celebrates with his family and Mal Cater.

Prize giving Ceremony February 2016: Isabel Shurlin is acknowledged for her outstanding academic year.

‘Lifers’ visit the ELC and their former teachers.

Just like old times - 15 years on.

01 AT THE END OF 2015 WE FAREWELLED A DYNAMIC YEAR 12 COHORT, THAT HAD ACHIEVED SO HIGHLY AND EXCELLED IN SO MANY WAYS ACROSS ALL FACETS OF THE SCHOOL.

The academic results of the group placed the School in the Top 50 in the State and they still managed to embrace the cocurricular life of the School. These students were also inspiring role models in: Cadets, summer and winter sports, on the stage, in art and in their service to others. Nine of these high performing students were also acknowledged as ‘Lifers’, having spent their entire schooling, from 3YO Kindergarten, at Mentone Grammar. All students were thanked for the endeavour they brought to the life of the School, and were welcomed into The Mentonians Association.

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

VCE Results - Class of 2015 -- 1 00% of Mentone Grammar students attained their VCE -- 6% of students attained ATARs over 99 -- 15% attained ATARs over 95 (top 5% of the country) -- 51% attained ATARs over 80 (top 20% of the country) -- 42% of all grades were A or A+ -- 17% of study scores were over 40 -- The median ATAR score was 80.35 Six ‘perfect’ study scores of 50 in Business Management, English, Health & Human Development, Further Mathematics (two) and Psychology.

Dux 2015: Jaidyn Muhandiramge who attained an ATAR of 99.75 In the year when the School celebrated 10 years of coeducation, we also celebrated with Isabel Shurlin who attained an ATAR of 99.65 - the highest score for a girl since coeducation began at Mentone Grammar in 2006. Isabel also received a Premier’s Award for a perfect score of 50 for English.

03 04

CLASS OF 2015 COURSE DESTINATIONS Management & Commerce (29.3%)

Management & Commerce (29.3%)

Natural & Physical Sciences (14.3%)

Natural & Physical Sciences (14.3%) Society & Culture (13.6%)

Society & Culture (13.6%) Health (11.4%)

Health Education (11.4%) (7.9%) Education (7.9%) (7.9%) Engineering Engineering (7.9%) Creative Arts (6.4%) Architecture & Building (4.3%) Creative Arts (6.4%) Information Technology (2.1%) Architecture & Building (4.3%)

LIFERS AFFECTIONATELY REFERRED TO AS ‘LIFERS’, NINE VALEDICTORIANS HAVE SPENT THEIR ENTIRE SCHOOL LIFE AT MENTONE GRAMMAR, SOME 15 YEARS. IN 2015 WE ACKNOWLEDGED: JOSHUA BURGESS, TYLER BRADLEY, JAMES GRANT, LIAM LEEGEL, ALEXANDER SHERMON, JONATHAN KOH, OLIVER STRONG, PATRICK ANDERSON AND TODD BLASSE. THEY ALL MADE A STRONG CONTRIBUTION TO THE SCHOOL, PARTICULARLY IN THE AREAS OF ACADEMIA, CADETS, SPORT, MUSIC AND DRAMA. THANK YOU FOR ALL THE HIGHLIGHTS.

Agriculture & Environmental Information Technology (2.1%) (1.4%) Food & Hospitality, Personal Services (1.4%)

Agriculture & Environmental (1.4%)

Food & Hospitality, Personal Services (1.4%)

Monash University (40%)

CLASS OFRMIT 2015 VICTORIAN UNIVERSITY University (21%) DESTINATIONS University of Melbourne (10%) Swinburne University ( 9%)

Monash University (40%)

Deakin University (9%)

RMIT University (21%)

Independent Colleges (5%)

University of Melbourne (10%) La Trobe University (4%)

Swinburne University ( 9%)

Victoria University (2%)

Deakin University (9%) Independent Colleges (5%) La Trobe University (4%) Victoria University (2%)

CLASS OF 2015 DESTINATIONS Victorian Universities (90%)

Victorian Universities (90%) Independent Institutions (5%) Independent Institutions (5%) Engagements (2%) Interstate and Overseas Interstate and Overseas Engagements (2%) TAFE (2%) Employment (1%) TAFE (2%)

Employment (1%)

OUR LEADERS 2016

Head Prefects 2016: Wes Flavell and Eliza Harvey with Principal Mal Cater.

Prefects Gail D’Souza, Finlay Dodson and Sam Callahan celebrate their badging in March.

Head of Frogmore Cameron Lancaster congratulates new Prefects Luc van Vliet, Emily Keogh, Sarah Cimino, Emma Doyle, Nathan Booth and Emily Fiddes who were badged throughout Term 2.

Senior House Captains 2016: Emma Doyle, Frazer Kemp, Marc Shermon, James Davidson, Max Stammers, Sam Callahan, Nathan Booth and Luke D’Alessandro.

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

What is ‘Genuine’ Leadership? … A true leader is willing to make sacrifices and they are not selfish. They commit their resources including, in particular, time to others. This person is well respected by staff and students alike. They have a capacity to ‘rise above’ adversity and they do not succumb to peer group pressure – they actually move the peer group in a positive way by their example and their willingness to stand up for what they genuinely believe in. A Mentone Grammar Leader exhibits the School Values at all times – Endeavour, Respect, Resilience, Caring, Discipline, Integrity and Service. Mal Cater - Principal

‘I am delighted to advise you that the Head Prefects for 2016 will be Wes Flavell and Eliza Harvey.’

Wes Flavell Wes, you have recently

Each year, an overwhelming number of students apply for positions as Head Prefects, Prefects, Campus Leaders, House Captains and Cocurricular Captains. Following a rigorous application and interview process, the appointment of such leaders is a proud moment for the students, their peers, mentors and families.

Middle School Bayview Captains 2016 Tom Spencer and Ella Mairs with Head of Bayview, John Twist.

Junior School Eblana Captains 2016 Lachlan Fraser and Hannah Wagner with Head of Eblana, John Nolan.

It begins early - Eblana’s enthusiastic Leadership Group 2016.

attended the Cadet Promotions Course at Puckapunyal and your commitment to leadership through this activity has been a highlight of your Mentone Grammar journey. You are a member of the Firsts Tennis Team and, in winter you will represent the School in Football. You are also a committed member of our Athletics Team. Wes, you were elected House Captain of Jones House this year such is the respect staff and students have for you. You participated in the Zaidee’s 24-Hour Run, and are a member of the Beaumaris Lawn Tennis Club outside of School. You represented the School over the summer break at the National Youth Science Forum having successfully negotiated the selection process for this. You are a fine young man who role models the School Values to the highest possible standard.

Eliza Harvey Eliza, you are involved in School Productions, the Choir, the Orchestra and various other music groups. You are a member of the Firsts Volleyball Team, and will represent the School in Basketball in winter. You have been a loyal member of our School Cadet Unit and you are actively involved in Community Service initiatives such as 40 Hour Famine and the Zaidee’s Foundation. Outside of School you volunteer for World Vision and Special Children Australia giving of your time to support others in need. Alongside all of these activities you achieve highly in our classrooms and your Learning Behaviours are extremely strong. You are well regarded by staff and students and you represent both your House and the School with great pride and you truly exhibit the School Values to the highest level. I commend to the School Eliza and Wes as our Head Prefects for 2016. As a Community, we join in congratulating you both on these appointments and wish you both well for the year ahead. MAL CATER - PRINCIPAL 09

A SENSATIONAL SUMMER OF SPORT TENNIS PREMIERS 2016! 02

01 AFTER A FEW SEASONS OF MODERATE RESULTS, WE KNEW THAT OUR 2016 SEASON’S SUCCESS HINGED ON ALL OF OUR TOP 8-9 PLAYERS REMAINING FIT. AFTER PROMISING TRAINING SESSIONS IN THE LEAD UP, IT WAS QUITE APPARENT THAT WE HAD THE RIGHT BLEND OF PLAYERS TO PRESS FOR A POTENTIAL PREMIERSHIP – EXPERIENCE, EXUBERANT YOUTH AND GOOD DOUBLES PLAYERS.

Our first match against Assumption College was, as expected, a comfortable win. However, the next match against the consistently strong PEGS side gave us a better indication of our prospects; it was a hard fought win that set us up for further wins against The Peninsula School, Marcellin College, Yarra Valley, Camberwell and arch rivals, Trinity Grammar. These impressive results allowed us to stabilise our pairings and build confidence in our singles games. Our biggest challenge for the season was our match against a strong Ivanhoe Grammar School team. True to our prediction, the match came ‘down to the wire’, with us winning narrowly by 15 games. Excellent results were recorded by Oliver Florent, Jaiden Watts and Sahishnu Siva Ram in their singles matches. We went into the Final undefeated and brimming with confidence. Despite this, the eventual Final against Ivanhoe Grammar School was going to be tough, but we knew that our doubles pairings would to be the key. Hard fought wins by Anthony Tamborriello and Trent Jones, Oliver Florent and Braden and Jaiden Watts and Wes Flavell were crucial. However, it was the two inspirational wins by our third pair of

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

Zac Scherger and Sahishnu which proved to be the dominant motivation for our singles. Knowing we had to win four singles games to secure the Premiership meant that every hard fought game was crucial. Wes battled gallantly to go down 6/8, as did Zac (4/8) and Trent (3/8), however, Sahishnu grinded out a great win (8/6), and the Watts brothers dominated their matches (Jaiden 8/3 and Braden 8/0). The last two matches on the courts were Oliver’s and Anthony’s – both playing against higher ranked players. Fortunately, they both won enough games for us to get across the line, by just four games – 8 sets all, 100 games to 96! It was a very tense, exciting climax to an extraordinarily close match. All players are to be congratulated on their determination and poise to triumph under immense pressure and scrutiny. Thanks go to Anthony Tamborriello for his excellent leadership, culminating in his second AGSV Tennis Premiership, his third AGSV Rep selection, and being named Captain of that team. Thanks also go to Oliver Florent, Trent Jones

03 01

Our Tennis Premiers and coaches enjoying the win.

Premiership Captain Anthony Tamborriello in action.

Long time doubles partner Oliver Florent in action against Ivanhoe Grammar School.

and Wes Flavell for their leadership and support, not only during this season, but over the past six years. Finally, I would like to thank the teams’ external coaches in Marcus Petrou and Brad Crosher who did a magnificent job in keeping the boys focused and providing consistently varied drills and tuition. Also, to all the parents and Mentone Grammar staff who regularly supported the boys throughout the season. LEIGH ROWLANDS - TEAM MANAGER

Making history, our first Volleyball Premiership team!

Captain James Davidson leading by example.

Teamwork, the key to success.

BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL PREMIERS!

IN A SUMMER OF SPORT THAT YIELDED SO MUCH SUCCESS, IT WAS OUR COURAGEOUS FIRST VOLLEYBALL TEAM THAT MOST SURPRISED THE COMPETITION WITH A TEAM LACKING IN EXPERIENCE BUT FULL OF MENTONE GRAMMAR SPIRIT AND BRAVADO.

03 Captain James Davidson reports on the School’s second Volleyball Premiership: For the final time in our schooling lives the Boys’ First Volleyball Team travelled to Dandenong State Volleyball Centre. Although this may have seemed like just your average Saturday sport game, it was in fact very different. This round represented the Grand Final of the competition with the winners receiving the cherished Premiership Cup. With many excited yet nervous boys on the bus we couldn’t wait to get on court and play the rival school of Ivanhoe Grammar. It is with great pleasure that I can say we defeated them in straight sets to win the 2016 Volleyball Premiership! However, the scoreboard didn’t reflect the true result of the game. To their credit the Ivanhoe players certainly came prepared and were not willing to give up their chance at making history, by winning their school’s first ever Volleyball Premiership.

This resulted in increased strategic gameplay and skills which, in comparison to last time we played, was significantly higher. Although they came prepared, we as a team were ready to match this. Of course the game was not perfect as we had some downturns within the sets, however, we stayed calm and managed to play our way back to take the lead on many occasions. After being only the second Mentone Grammar team to win the Premiership, it is with great pride and honour that I thank our Team Manager Mrs Alston, Ms Percy and Ms Hunt for organising the buses or taxis each week, and making sure we arrived on time and well prepared for the games. To our coach Luke Campbell, I don’t know how he managed to do it, but by gathering two previous inexperienced volleyballers, a drama fanatic and six footy players who didn’t even know the rules, he managed to turn us into an AGSV Premiership team, which truly says enough in itself.

Finally I would like to acknowledge the boys: Matt Grigoriou, Mitchell Scott, Will Burmeister, Cameron Moorhouse, Keenen D’Unienville, Josh Stephenson, Pat Bankin, Ryan Buckler and Harry Edwards. It was a pleasure training until late on those Friday evenings, and even getting up early on our school holidays; the games we played together have given me memories that will last forever, and to do something that seemed impossible at the start of the year shows how determined and committed we were as a team. The trophy with the Mentone 2016 engraving is a great reward for our efforts. The year has been a great journey and I would be more than happy to do it all again. JAMES DAVIDSON - CAPTAIN (YEAR 12)

SWIMMING PREMIERSHIPS 2016 MORE SUCCESS, RECORDS, SILVERWARE!

01 02

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

THE 2016 AGSV SWIMMING CARNIVAL SAW THE THIRD CONSECUTIVE WIN FOR BOTH OUR GIRLS’ AND BOYS’ TEAMS. IT WAS AN OUTSTANDING EFFORT FROM THE TEAMS AND JUST REWARD FOR ALL OF THE SWIMMERS’ HARD WORK.

In a year of change with a new Head of Swimming, the loss of the outdoor training pool, due to our new building, and with new school coaches appointed, the swimmers rallied for one of the most successful championships ever.

AGSV records along with the nine School records that were broken. The girls truly pulled together some amazing relay swims to set these new records and provided deafening excitement from the stands. The girls finished with a score of 155 points.

The Boys’ team led brilliantly by Frazer Kemp and Max Williams, put everything on the line. It was a tight contest throughout the evening and the latter half of the night finally saw the team break free from the fight and dominate the remainder of the events. The relays showed the depth of our teams and, in particular, the Boys U/15 Medley of Michael Garbelotto, Ben Putamorsi, Spencer Blain-Bartle and Jack Williams reminded everyone why we look forward to swimming each year. Two School records were broken on the night. The Boys’ team finished top three in 29 of 39 events, to finish with their highest score in five years with 290 points.

Thank you to all of our dedicated, committed swimmers, parents, coaches and staff. Swimming is an individual sport but a team effort and it takes an unrelenting program to get the swimmers prepared. It would have been too easy to rest on our past success, but with typical Mentone Grammar spirit, everyone ‘opted in’ to achieve these fantastic wins to add to our proud history and reputation as a champion swimming school.

The Girls’ team, outstandingly captained by Stephanie Sanderson-Pearce and Molly Ford, comprised students as young as Year 5. They led the meet from start to finish. An incredibly dominant display throughout the whole evening, always leading in the point score and never finishing lower than third place, it was breathtaking to watch. Highlights were Emily Bresnehan’s two

It is inspiring how each swimmer is able to put their individual results and effort to the side to support and encourage each other unconditionally. In 2016 we got there as a team. Congratulations on another two Premierships. AMANDA BARNHOORN TEACHER IN CHARGE - SWIMMING

Our Boys’ and Girls’ teams celebrate another successful night in the pool.

Emily Bresnehan swims another personal best.

Greenways swimmer Spencer Blain-Bartle quick off the blocks.

Josh Cooley is happy with his result.

Captains Frazer Kemp, Max Williams, Stephanie Sanderson-Pearce and Molly Ford receive the Premiership Cups.

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OUR SUMMER OF PREMIERSHIPS SURF LIFESAVING CHAMPIONS

The team’s superiority in the water shone once again.

Trenton Johnson takes to the water... again.

The future of our Girls’ team.

challenge. We were able to achieve this by 9 points - Mentone Grammar 220 points and The Peninsula School 211 points. The Boys’ team completed a demolition of our opponents, scoring 327 points with The Peninsula School finishing second on 186 points.

03 A HOT, BLUSTERY DAY ON THE BEACH AT MORDIALLOC DID NOT DETER OUR SURF LIFESAVERS AS LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND A SUMMER OF TRAINING BROUGHT OUT THE BEST IN OUR BEACH ATHLETES. BOTH OUR BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ TEAMS BATTLED THE GUSTY CONDITIONS AND A STRONG FIELD OF SCHOOLS TO WIN BOTH PREMIERSHIPS!

Life Saving Victoria runs the School Surf League which is open to individual and school entries from all schools in Victoria. The 2016 event took place with teams from 17 schools including Scotch College, Star of the Sea, Caulfield Grammar, St Leonard’s College, The Peninsula School, Yarra Valley Grammar, Toorak College and Mentone Girls’ Grammar School.

Team victories were recorded in: -- The Board Relays in U13, U14, U15 and in both Open heats. -- The Aqua Cameron in U13, U14 and both heats in U15. -- The Board Rescue in U13, U14 and U15.

The Girls’ team produced some excellent results in the team events including winning the U13 Board Rescue, U14 and U15 Beach Relays and U15 Board Relay.

In the individual events, a number of students recorded first place finishes: -- Thomas Lewis, Declan McComb and Spencer Blain-Bartle winning their Wade event. -- Tarlis Reed winning Flags and the Beach Sprint. -- Alec McComb winning his 1km event. -- Michael Garbelotto winning the Surf Race, the Board Race and the 1km Run.

There were also a number of victories in individual events including: Hannah Schmidt winning the Surf Race; Chloe Garifalakis winning the Beach Sprint and Wade Race and Natalie Clucas also winning the Beach Sprint and Wade Race.

A special mention to Year 10 student Trenton Johnson for winning his Board Race and 1km Run, but also for competing in multiple events in both U15 and Open age groups, often making his way from the finish line to the start line to compete again.

These victories were complemented by numerous second and third places in events throughout the program. Overcoming the girls from Peninsula became our greatest

Our final overall score was 547 points. Our victory margin was 150 points. Well done to all students who represented the School with such determination. STUART BAINBRIDGE MENTONE GRAMMAR SURF LIFESAVING

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

WELCOME TO OUR EARLY LEARNING CENTRE

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THIS YEAR WE WELCOMED 103 CHILDREN WHO HAVE ALL SETTLED IN AND ARE HAPPILY ENGAGING WITH STAFF AND PEERS ALIKE TO MAKE STRONG CONNECTIONS. WE KNOW FROM EXPERIENCE HERE THAT THESE NEW FRIENDSHIPS CAN ENDURE WELL BEYOND THEIR GRADUATION FROM THE SCHOOL.

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Having fun at our Keysborough Playing Fields on Mother’s Day.

Libby Chislett Director of the Mary Jones Early Learning Centre.

Communal play is an integral part of learning in the ELC.

The children are also enjoying their new surroundings and have happily challenged themselves in many ways, whether it be saying goodbye in the morning to their parents; managing their own lunch boxes; being responsible for their possessions; or learning new skills such as signing in to their room each day. They are also learning to acknowledge and discuss their feelings and to modify these where needed. This is encouraged and supported through the RULER program ‘mood meters’, which operate in both 3YO and 4YO classrooms. So far this year we have enjoyed many exciting events such as welcome barbeques for all families, we had a visit from the Easter Bunny and many student visitors from the ‘big school’. We helped commemorate ANZAC services with our School Community and celebrated Harmony Day then

Mother’s Day with a special morning at our Keysborough Playing Fields. Most recently we were visited by Murrundindi, head man of the Wurundjeri Clan of Melbourne. He came to talk to the children about our indigenous history and introduced the children to the style of painting and symbol drawings that indigenous Australians use to tell a story. Through such events and our open invitation to visit classrooms we have enjoyed meeting and getting to know parents, grandparents and the special people in our students’ lives. We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful Community that is so keen to be involved in their child’s journey at Mentone Grammar. It is through this partnership between home and school that great things can be achieved. LIBBY CHISLETT - DIRECTOR

EBLANA

ELC AND FOUNDATION â&#x20AC;&#x201C;YEAR 4

01 IT HAS BEEN A BUSY SEMESTER FOR OUR FOUNDATION - YEAR 4 CLASSES. I AM HAPPY TO REPORT THAT ALL OF OUR STUDENTS ARE WELL AND TRULY IMMERSED IN THEIR LEARNING AND ARE LOVING LIFE IN EBLANA. WE WELCOMED 206 STUDENTS INTO EBLANA ALONG WITH SOME NEW FACES ON STAFF AND, TOGETHER, WE HAVE ENJOYED A FULL CALENDAR OF INSPIRING EVENTS, EXCURSIONS AND ACTIVITIES THAT HAVE ALL ADDED TO SUCCESS IN AND OUT OF THE CLASSROOM.

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We were all delighted to badge our new Campus leaders for 2016 and, to date, our Year 4s have all grown into their chosen roles and are displaying great maturity, well beyond their years. With their classroom teachers as terrific role models our leaders constantly amaze our Community with their terrific public speaking abilities and their enthusiasm to be involved in every event on offer. During the semester, Eblana has been involved in an array of events that have all showcased the community spirit, leadership and talents of our young students, most notably: Founders’ Day, Harmony Day and ANZAC Day. With a great sense of occasion, our Eblana students acknowledged the importance of such gatherings and learnt much from being part of something bigger than themselves. Anyone who has ever visited Eblana will know that we have an inspiring devotion to books, books and more books. We love reading. Our love of books is a part of everything we love to do in Eblana and so with each major celebration and milestone

we make sure that there is a book for every occasion. You can imagine our excitement when we had the privilege of having famous Australian author, Mem Fox, visit our School!

Mentone Stories A visit from Mem Firstly, an audience of 500 parents and teachers from the Community attended our enormously successful evening, the first in our Mentone Stories series of guest speakers for 2016, to hear Mem Fox share her extensive insights into the topic: Getting your children to love reading. With passion and energy, Mem urged parents to read aloud and often to their young children.

It should be an adventure–not a chore. I hope I provided the strategies and inspiration at Mentone to make that adventure even more exciting and valuable…’. This very special visit, by a brilliant, world acclaimed children’s author was so important, as the adults who attended the evening with Mem and the children who joined in her story reading and telling during the day were inspired by her ‘realness’; to read loudly and together share the love of reading and the worlds of enjoyment and knowledge within books. They too can be real authors and successful readers, just like the very ‘real’ Mem Fox. JOHN NOLAN - HEAD OF EBLANA

With much excitement the following day, Mem then visited Eblana to read her books to the students and discuss her life and her writing with all of us. Mem was certainly impressed with the commitment and joy our Campus has of reading. She said, ‘I love working in schools when parents and teachers are as involved as their children are in the adventure of learning to read.

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John Nolan, Head of Eblana

Learning is fun in Eblana.

A very special day with Mem Fox.

Harmony Day: to support the day with action, our generous Eblana Community raised $3,283.60 for the Australian Red Cross.

ANZAC commemorations with the ‘big’ school.

BAYVIEW

MIDDLE YEARS 5 – 8

WHAT AN ENERGETIC START TO THE YEAR! WITH FOUR DIFFERENT YEAR LEVELS OF BOYS AND GIRLS EXPERIENCING CUSTOMISED LEARNING; ALL SUPPORTED BY A BREADTH OF INTRIGUING INCURSIONS, EXCURSIONS, CAMPS AND EVEN OVERSEAS TOURS, BAYVIEW IS AN EXTRAORDINARY PLACE TO LEARN.

With our leaders selected and all students well settled into life at Mentone Grammar, the students’ hard work has been its own reward, along with some very memorable events and adventures. Our Cocurricular programs have rounded out a semester of learning with successes in Sport, Performing Arts, Languages and Chess, just to name a few. In just a short time our students have taken their learning to myriad places. Each year level has experienced some wonderful experiential events:

Year 5s - Our Shoreham Classroom From Year 3 all Mentone Grammar students are introduced to our beautiful Shoreham property. From then on they can’t wait until it is their time to visit again. It is a special place where memories are made, Mentone Grammar traditions are created and new games invented.

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Here is Olivia’s Shoreham story: On the first day of 5A’s camp, we travelled around Port Phillip Bay to Point Nepean. We saw lots of old buildings at the Quarantine Station and Fort Nepean. We explored some of the old tunnels and inside one you could hear your echo bouncing off the walls. I learnt about settlement in Sorrento in the 1800s and that Melbourne was almost called Batmania. In the afternoon, we travelled on to Shoreham. The theme for our camp was Pirates. Tim, our captain gave us all bandanas and we all made up our own pirate names. On the second day, we walked along the beach after breakfast looking in the rock pools and collecting shells. The water was cold but not cold enough for us to keep our feet out. We saw starfish and some sand crabs. The weather was rainy after our walk, however, it didn’t spoil the fun. Later that day Ms Wootton visited us and gave us all an art lesson with water colour and we painted on the beach. After lunch we had a sand sculpting competition and then we went in the water for a swim. It was still really fun.

Our last day at Shoreham was also Greg the chef’s birthday, so in the morning, we made a big red card that everyone signed. We then made up treasure hunts and my group came second. It was then time to pack up all our things and come back to school. I had a great time at Shoreham with all my friends and I can’t wait to go again next year!

Year 6s take over our nation’s capital Our Year 6 students recently undertook an educational tour of Canberra with a hands-on approach to exploring their own history, culture, heritage and the meaning of democracy. It was an action packed week with many memorable highlights. Students enjoyed visits to The Royal Australian Mint, The National Film and Sound Archive, The Australian Electoral Commission, The AIS, our National Library, the War Memorial, The National Capital Exhibition Centre and Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre. What a week! All of these exciting visits provided great relevance and inspiration for studies back in the classrooms of Mentone.

John Twist, Head of Bayview.

Year 7s discover the wonders of the Outback and indigenous life.

Separate classes for boys and girls in the Middle Years have many benefits.

A visit to the Middle Ages for our Year 8 students.

Sunset at Shoreham beach for Year 5s.

06 Year 6s pay their respects in Canberra.

05 Year 7 in the Outback Once again the Year 7 Central Australia trips have been a stunning highlight thus far. Despite some early departures (4.30am for some!) feelings of excitement took over as the reality of visiting one of the truly unique parts of the world set in. Flying in to Yulara airport, students were given some amazing views of Uluru, gaining a sense of what was to come. Our students spent two nights camping in the shadows of Uluru. A slow walk around the rock enabled the students to not only appreciate its size but more importantly its significance, as Aboriginal elders explained the history of Uluru and its surrounds. After a 3.5 hour trip up the highway students arrived at the remote indigenous community of Lilla, where they spent two nights and participated in activities such as dot painting, boomerang and spear throwing and playing footy in the red dirt! Most importantly, it was a unique chance to learn about indigenous culture through conversation with the families of Lilla. The walk around nearby Kings Canyon provided truly stunning views, well worth the incredible steep climb at the beginning of the walk! Returning to Yulara later in the week, watching the sunset over Uluru and sunrise at Kata Tjuta provided indelible memories for all.

06 for all to see, and the students now have a more complete picture of their country’s history, and an understanding of the rugged landscapes and the people who live so peacefully within them.

Year 8 Medieval Day As part of bringing history to life, some Medieval knights and maidens visited Bayview to take our students on a journey that was both gruesome and fun. Students went back in time and immersed themselves in the cruel yet fascinating Middle Ages. Presenters from Medieval Education brought along a range of curious props and engaging activities that both excited and terrified our Year 8 students.

They were entertained with tales and nervously ‘volunteered’ to experience: -- Weapons and Armour -- Crime and Punishment -- Tournaments -- Archery -- Medieval Dance. The students loved it all! They were astounded by the crimes and punishment of the times and the weight and size of the cumbersome armour and menacing weapons … and happy to be born in this century. JOHN TWIST - HEAD OF BAYVIEW

The connection with our past and the challenges of the future were presented

GREENWAYS YEAR 9 CAMPUS

GREENWAYS STUDENTS COMMENCED THE 2016 SCHOOL YEAR WITH GREAT ENTHUSIASM. OUR AIM IS TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE AN INNOVATIVE LEARNING CENTRE FOR OUR YEAR 9 STUDENTS. THE CAMPUS IS A CONSTANT HIVE OF ACTIVITY. THIS ‘BUSYNESS’ I OFTEN REFER TO IS STRATEGICALLY GEARED TO DEVELOPING THE WHOLE YEAR 9 STUDENT – ACADEMICALLY, EMOTIONALLY, SPIRITUALLY AND PHYSICALLY.

I honestly believe that we have created a special place. I often wonder how I would have received this awesome centre when I was in Year 9. Well, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity. Education and the way curriculum was delivered were different ‘in my day’. Teachers did not provide dynamic and flexible environments that accommodated the learning needs of students. I remember being seated behind a desk for the majority of my school day, attending a lecture-style class and too scared to talk or interact with classmates. Facilities were limited and technology was certainly not an integral part of learning. I am not saying that this is the ‘wrong’ way to learn. Like this year, the learning situation needs to meet the desired outcomes, meet the requirements of students and prepare them for life beyond school. Learning needs to be relevant and engaging. Our students love having the opportunity to interact, collaborate, have silent space or use technology to effect a positive learning experience. A positive learning culture is obvious within our Campus. The study and fitness sessions have been extremely well attended so far this year. Students are expected to attend three study sessions per fortnight where they undertake structured and personal study within these times. Collaboration is also evident at these times with students working on group tasks in designated spaces. We have discussed a lot, the idea of the ‘mastery of learning’, both at school and at home. If a student needs clarification or support with a particular concept, it is important that they clearly understand or ‘master’ its application before moving on to the next chapter of their learning. Our morning study session supervisors have played a particularly important role in supporting students who cannot consolidate their understanding of a concept at home prior to attending class the next day. The Fitness Sessions are also well attended by the students and fitness Mentor Michael Woolhouse continues to provide a varied and

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broad program. The Year 9s have recently committed to their annual Fitness Challenge goal and students will be working with him to prepare for their chosen event or activity. These sessions have been so well attended that we have also recruited another trainer to assist with some of the larger sessions. Our Greenways Learning Journeys play an integral role in developing important life skills and consolidating students’ learning in a range of different contexts. Some Year 9 groups have already attended the Shoreham, Dookie (Rural), City and Greenways Café experiences. Each program has clear objectives and aims to give students diverse experiences and to introduce new skills. We have spent time with students returning from the Learning Journeys experience, developing a transition plan. We have asked students to reflect on their experience and present their learning at our class Learning Journeys Presentation Dinners. We have also encouraged students to recognise the skills they have developed and how they can be used now that they are back in the classroom. As part of the Greenways Café experience, students complete a Food Handling Certificate and operate a fully functional kitchen, mentored by qualified staff. Our Year 9s gain the experience of operating a real small business – they develop financial literacy and marketing skills. We have already seen some innovative ideas at our Friday Market Day stalls. The students’ barista training has been enjoyed by many a happy customer in the Café who also appreciate the freshly baked goods and friendly service. The Greenways Campus continues to attract high levels of interest from the school and wider community. Our 2016 enrolments are close to capacity and we are also an employer of choice. Staff from other schools approach me regularly about the possibility of teaching in our dynamic learning centre. This makes me realise everyday just how lucky we are to have such a wonderful Campus and program. NATALIE MCLENNAN - HEAD OF GREENWAYS

Natalie McLennan - Head of Greenways.

Greenways students use the bay as a classroom.

Cadets skills training for annual camp at Puckapunyal.

Filming at ACMI as part of the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; city camp program.

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Learning about marine life whilst at Shorham camp.

Horseriding is a highlight for students staying at Shoreham.

A great place to learn and work, Greenways CafĂŠ.

FROGMORE

SENIOR YEARS 10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12

ONCE AGAIN, I HAVE BEEN IMPRESSED WITH THE HIGH LEVEL OF COMMITMENT AND ENGAGEMENT OUR STUDENTS BRING TO THE FROGMORE CAMPUS EACH DAY. OUR YEAR 12 STUDENTS ARE CERTAINLY LEADING THE WAY WITH STRONG ROLE MODELLING, EVIDENCED BY THE NUMBER OF LEADERS ALREADY BEING ACKNOWLEDGED AS PREFECTS. IT HAS BEEN EXTREMELY PLEASING TO SEE HOW WELL ALL STUDENTS ARE MANAGING THEIR TIME TO ACHIEVE HIGHLY, BOTH IN AND OUT OF THE CLASSROOMS.

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Notably, and of significant benefit for our students, a strong study culture is already evident in our senior library. Our Tutor Program, which offers mentoring by a team of high-achieving Mentone Grammar graduates, along with senior teachers, provides invaluable after school assistance for our senior students to enhance their understanding of topics and concepts. While our Year 12 students use the library regularly, it has been pleasing to see our Years 10 and 11 students also developing their study habits and making the most of this exceptional offering. The hints, tips and general words of wisdom passed on by our notable students and dedicated staff are no doubt impacting on recent results in the classrooms.

It hasn’t all been classwork and study, however, as our students have engaged in a large variety of meaningful activities throughout Semester 1. In addition to their weekly routine of lessons, SACs, homework and assignments, many Frogmore students have made history with our spectacular summer of sporting success. They have enjoyed some memorable House competitions and have performed magnificently at many Performing Arts events. Most notably, our students recently embraced the challenge of opera, astounding audiences with their sublime performances of Orlando. They have assisted with School Tours, raised money for numerous charities, led Cadet training days and our International students have discovered the joy of our Shoreham camp. Currently, around 50 students are rehearsing for our senior production of Legally Blonde, to be staged in August. Amidst all this momentum we welcomed a special guest to our School. On the occasion of the Keith Jones Oration in May, our students were privileged to meet with Mr Akram Azimi – 2013 Young Australian of the Year – a refugee of war torn Afghanistan.

Cameron Lancaster - Head of Frogmore

Scientific studies are very popular in Frogmore.

The refurbished senior library provides a comfortable and well resourced space for after hours study.

Special guest Akram Azimi lunches with senior Social Service leaders.

Year 12s celebrate their final year together.

Akram’s message centred around how our youth can help to ensure Australia becomes a truly multicultural nation. In referencing his own upbringing, Akram challenged our students to look at another’s life through another lens; to challenge their own beliefs and cultural expectations and to see that which separates us is something that we have no control over; where and when we were born. Despite his circumstances of being born into war torn Afghanistan, Akram highlighted how he felt so lucky to have a loving family and a meal each night when so many around him did not. He showed our students that privilege is not about material possessions or status, but the ability to have a choice. He was lucky that he had a choice and was able to make a life in Australia. He then used that privilege to focus on his studies to gain the knowledge that, while it enabled him to obtain outstanding marks, has allowed him to influence others to explore what it means to be truly grateful for what you have, which is so profoundly influenced by serving others. Whilst sharing lunch with students from our Social Service Committee, Akram challenged them to think not only about how we must learn to look at cultural differences through a different lens, but to also consider how we can use our gifts to help others. Students were encouraged to have conversations with their peers, their teachers and their families about what a truly multicultural society looks like. As per our School’s Social Service Mission Statement, our aim is to: educate and encourage lifelong empathy and action. We thank Akram for bringing real life perspective to our most fortunate lives. It has certainly been an inspiring semester in Frogmore. CAMERON LANCASTER - HEAD OF FROGMORE

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OUR DANCE SPECTACULAR!

OUR 2016 DANCE PERFORMANCE EVENING WITH A STAR WARS TWIST TOOK PLACE ON 4 MAY. THIS EVENING HIGHLIGHTED HOW THE DANCE PROGRAM AT MENTONE GRAMMAR HAS EVOLVED OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS. DANCE IS NOW PART OF THE CURRICULUM AT YEARS 5, 6 AND 8 AND IS OFFERED AS AN ELECTIVE IN YEAR 9, ALL BUILDING TOWARDS OUR VCE DANCE STUDIES.

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It is evident from the outstanding performances that the coursework is laying strong foundations for our cocurricular performance productions across all Campuses. On the night the entire cast joined together in celebrating the Senior Dance Ensembleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent achievements at the recent Crown International Dancing Championships, holding the trophies high with pride. Our Senior Dance Ensemble students followed this with their breathtaking lyrical performance that gained them third place at the competition. Throughout the evening we celebrated the achievements of some of our younger dancers: Taya Brooks who was recently accepted into the International Dance Organisation National Team that will compete in Korea against other nations in July, as well as Scarlett Trudgen-Frances and Stephanie Warmuz who were recently selected to attend the Dance Immersive Program in Los Angeles in June. When the Junior Dance Ensemble took to the floor with excitement and precision, it was clear that our peer mentoring of our younger dancers by Frogmore student Peronel Taylor and Greenways students Helena Papasimeon and Alex Richards had great benefit. These cross-campus relations were also evident in our Intermediate Dance Ensemble, Senior Dance Ensemble and a duo performed by Charles Dashwood in Year 7 and Keegan Brooks in Year 11. This culture, where students across year levels and Campuses come together to

celebrate their passion and learn from each other truly encompasses what makes Dance at Mentone Grammar so special. This night marked the end of a journey for three of our Year 12 students Lucy Mangion, Renee Verginis and Emily Keogh. Lucy performed her VCE Technique Solo, a dance that gained her selection in Top Class, as a high achiever in the State in VCE Dance 2015. Her performance showed strength, flexibility and grace. Emily performed her VCE Technique Solo, which she has been working on in class over Terms 1 and 2, showing great control and stamina. Renee performed a lyrical solo, which showed beautiful alignment and expression. On the evening all three dancers were recognised for their mentoring, role modelling and devotion to the Dance Program at Mentone Grammar. Overall, it was a celebration of Dance achievements and highlights, with all performers combining as one in a finale filled with jazz hands and smiles. I just know that the friendships and memories made through performance will last as long as our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; love of dance. VANESSA MOORE - MENTONE GRAMMAR DANCE

ORLANDO

A NIGHT AT THE OPERA! Weaving both Japanese inspired costumes and the sensory elements of the seasons into the aesthetics, we created raked, circular staging that worked beautifully to elevate the actors above and around the orchestra, pitted in the centre of the action. This created a very intimate connection for the singers, musicians and audience alike. Technical projections and evocative lighting completed a simple but dramatic space where the real star of the show, the beautiful score and the wonderful singing, ensured a spectacular event for our seven performers and chamber orchestra of 14 musicians. They all performed superbly and astounded their audiences with sophistication well beyond their years.

01 IN MAY, IT WAS OUR PRIVILEGE TO STAGE THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF CUT OPERA PRODUCTIONS FOR THE SCHOOL. OUR INTENTION WAS TO PROVIDE OUR VERY TALENTED SENIOR STUDENTS WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE THE UNIQUE PERFORMANCE CHALLENGES THAT COME WITH ‘SUNG DRAMA’, OPERA. WE CHOSE HANDEL’S FAMOUS, ORLANDO, THE STORY OF ONE MAN’S DESCENT INTO MADNESS AND BACK. WITH TWISTS OF MAGIC AND MYTHOLOGY, IT IS THE STORY OF A LOVE TRIANGLE FRAUGHT WITH PASSION, VALOUR AND GRIEF AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HUMAN.

We are all immensely proud of our talented Mentone Grammar students who keep meeting the bar as we raise it – their passion, commitment and joy for theatre is truly amazing. My sincere thanks to our staff and students who supported the production with musical, technical and artistic assistance beyond the stage. Lastly, a big thank you to Musical Director Gavin Cornish whose passion for opera has led to this wonderful opportunity being created for Mentone Grammar. The standard witnessed on stage is testament to his musical brilliance. LOUISE DALY - DIRECTOR

My sincere thanks to our staff and students who supported the production with musical, technical and artistic assistance beyond the stage. Louise Daly

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Orlando Cast Eliza Harvey - Medoro Louise Solomonides - Zoroastra Adam Pratt - Orlando Bridgette Kelsey - Angelica Valdis Guppy - Epiales/Cupid Aleisha Bernamoff - Dorinda Claudia Brown - Geni Orlando Student Orchestra

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WINTER CONCERT 2016

BE NOT AFEARD; THE ISLE IS FULL OF NOISES, SOUNDS AND SWEET AIRS, THAT GIVE DELIGHT AND HURT NOT. SOMETIMES A THOUSAND TWANGLING INSTRUMENTS WILL HUM ABOUT MINE EARS, AND SOMETIME VOICES THAT, IF I THEN HAD WAKED AFTER LONG SLEEP, WILL MAKE ME SLEEP AGAIN: AND THEN, IN DREAMING, THE CLOUDS METHOUGHT WOULD OPEN AND SHOW RICHES READY TO DROP UPON ME THAT, WHEN I WAKED, I CRIED TO DREAM AGAIN. WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

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With 400 years since his passing, the Bard contemplates the power and ultimate beauty of music within his great work, The Tempest. The Winter Concert, held for the last time in the Bayview Gymnasium did indeed experience an opening of the clouds both figuratively and literally; musical riches flowed whilst the rain fell.

Froggers jazz band, recently returned from the Generations in Jazz festival and competition, opened the Concert with two emblematic big band pieces that demonstrated their growing strength and confidence in performance. The traditional spiritual Swing Low Sweet Chariot featured the silvery solo tones Tom Seidle on trumpet, followed by Sam’s Boogie in a lively mid-20th Century dance style. Our smaller music ensembles continue to grow in popularity, with five included in this year’s Concert. The Frogmore Trio, featuring Eliza Harvey, Robert McIntyre and Xinyi Liu performed Liebertango with the urgency and rhythmic style that characterises the modern Astor Piazolla Tango. Astor Piazzolla, reimagined the Argentinian Tango during his lifetime and produced many works that continue to be played across the world. Supersax, performed a medley of well known 1960s spy movie themes, the Brass Ensemble played a Rondeau by the famous English Baroque composer Purcell. The Flute Ensemble played an Allegro by the oft’ underrated composer Anon. Bridgette Kelsey and Becca Mendel performed Valerie, the Amy Winehouse version. The School’s contemporary string group, Vibe, joined forces with a rock ensemble to perform an arrangement of the 1980s classic The Final Countdown. Although not a small ensemble, The Wind Chamber Ensemble performed a sonorous arrangement of the first movement from Schubert’s Symphony 5.

From our recent performances of the opera Orlando, three leading characters performed by Bridgette Kelsey, Eliza Harvey and Aleisha Bernamoff were back by popular demand and revisited the sublime Consolati o bella. Superb. The Cat’s Meow jazz singers also performed at the Generations in Jazz festival, with inspiring results. Their performances of This Old Man and Fascinating Rhythm, set a new high standard in vocal performance. Luke Shi should also be commended for his fine accompaniment of the singers both at Mt Gambier and at the Winter Concert. The Senior Vocal Ensemble performed a superb a cappella arrangement of Under Pressure, by David Bowie, Freddie Mercury et al. Of special note were the various original melodic and rhythmic components effortlessly transformed into vocal parts within the ensemble. Accompanied by a soulful band with a brass section, the ensemble finished with a medley of well-known songs by the Jacksons. This year, our solo performers were all Year 12 students. Eliza Harvey reprised Vorrei Poterti Amar; her aria from Orlando. Bridgette Kelsey performed The Ships of Arcady by Michael Head, a VCE performance item. James Pearman performed an arrangement of Space Oddity by David Bowie, accompanied by the Senior Orchestra; which then performed Jupiter from Gustav Holst’s evocative Orchestral Suite, The Planets, in which each movement is named after a planet in our solar system. The concert closed with the highly percussive and decidedly Celtic Song of the Dragon Born from the video game Skyrim by Jeremy Soule. GAVIN CORNISH HEAD OF PERFORMING ARTS DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

FOUNDERS’ DAY 2016 MENTONE GRAMMAR WAS FOUNDED IN 1923 AND, IN MARCH, THE SCHOOL CAME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE THIS MOMENTOUS OCCASION. OUR FOUNDERS IDENTIFIED THE NEED FOR AN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL IN THIS AREA WHICH, IN THOSE DAYS, WAS A BEACH HOLIDAY LOCATION. A SMALL CONTINGENT OF LOYAL LOCALS BANDED TOGETHER TO CREATE THIS WONDERFUL SCHOOL, WHICH IS NOW RENOWNED IN EDUCATIONAL CIRCLES AS A CONTEMPORARY, COEDUCATIONAL SCHOOL OFFERING HIGH CALIBRE EDUCATIONAL AND COCURRICULAR PROGRAMS.

The theme for this year’s Founders’ Day was Sport. Our Sport Captains, Harrison Edwards and Brittany Chambers, presented a slide show and accompanying speech highlighting the journey the School has been on in relation to sport. Sport has been an integral part of Mentone Grammar since its inception and remains, to this day, one of the important elements of our overall program. The social integration of young people along with the obvious physical health aspects to this program make it an important part of a Mentone Grammar education. At a time when the media are obsessed with discussions about childhood obesity we stand out, as a school population, for being highly active and, generally, very fit. Our Year 9 students, for example, as part of their overall program are required to complete an additional fitness session each timetable cycle. This, like all of the sport programs on offer, not only enhances their fitness but also their academic performance.

On Founders’ Day, to name but a few, we reflected on our former Olympians who have come out of the School like Alex Hillhouse (1924), Robert Frank (2007) and David Wilson (1984), footballers like Glenn Nugent (1989), Chad Liddell (1994) and Mitch Brown (2008), former World Champions like sailor, Mark Fisher (1976), and our most recent high achiever, John Peers (2006) who represents Australia in the Davis Cup Tennis. There’s a cricketer who did pretty well named Shane Warne (1987) and before him another international representative in Cricket, Dav Whatmore (1972). Sport is, at this time, in an amazing space. Our Volleyball, Basketball, Cricket, Tennis, Touch Rugby, Swimming, Lifesaving and Sailing teams all competed in Finals, which resulted in six separate premierships! Thanks go to our guests for attending our Founders’ Day presentation and to our two youngest ELC students who cut the Founders’ Day cake: Kennedy Grant and Mandel De Zoysa-Lewis. GREG WILKINSON - Alumni Director

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

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Chair Simon Appel OAM and Principal Mal Cater welcome Kerryn and Mark Pearman (TMA President).

Bayview Captains Ella Mairs and Tom Spencer highlight the School’s sporting heroes.

Special guest Norma Cater helps cut the cake with Head Prefects Eliza and Wes and youngest students Kennedy and Mandel.

Founders’ Day is a whole school celebration.

Junior students enjoying a visit to the ‘big school’.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

PARENTS AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION

The Parents and Friends Association is a group of parent volunteers who get together to provide social and friendship raising events in support of the Mentone Grammar Community.

P&F Executive Committee President – Mia Le Fevre Taylor Secretary – Jo Howe Treasurer Retail – Karen Kemp Treasurer Fundraising – Rowena Theile Vice President Events – Andrea Dyer Vice President Community Relations – Julie Ahern Vice President Retail – Neerie Widelski Vice President Merchandise – Renee Riminic

P&F PROJECTS Each year the P&F Association directs funds back into projects for the benefit of the students. In 2015 the Association funded a suite of ‘funky furniture’ installations and this year the team has donated five shade sail installations throughout the Campus. The feedback from students and staff has been fantastic.

Dads@MG – Grant Holland Bayview Coordinators – Belinda Gourlay & Ros Carruthers Frogmore/Greenways Coordinator – Christine Davie Newsletter Editor – Andrea Schwarz The P&F volunteers extend an invitation to all members of the Mentone Grammar Community to join them for their many and varied events on the 2016/17 calendar.

Contact Us Everyone is welcome to join the group in any capacity, big or small. Website: www.mentonegrammar.net/community/parents-and-friends Email: pandf@mentonegrammar.net

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Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

04 01 Eblana students enjoying their new ‘funky furniture’ courtesy of P&F volunteers.

02 Shade Sail installations have been very much appreciated throughout the Campuses.

03-04 Community Golf Day 2016 winning teams. 05

Another successful turn out for this popular community event.

05 ONCE AGAIN, THIS ENERGETIC GROUP HAS WORKED HARD TO ACHIEVE A GREAT COMMUNITY FEELING ABOUT THE SCHOOL. SO FAR THIS YEAR THEY HAVE COOKED MANY WELCOME BARBEQUES, HELD MORNING TEAS, RUN STALLS AND HOSTED A WONDERFUL COMMUNITY GOLF DAY, ALL WITH THE AIM OF WELCOMING AND SUPPORTING NEW AND NOT-SO-NEW FAMILIES IN OUR EXTENDED COMMUNITY. THEY HAVE EVEN BROUGHT BACK DISCO TO OUR JUNIOR SCHOOL!

Community Golf Day 2016 The Mentone Grammar Golfing Community came together on Friday 13 May with another outstanding field of golfing and 19th hole greats. The Mentonians and the Parents and Friends once again worked hard to bring together almost 100 golfers on one of Melbourne’s premier sandbelt courses – Woodlands Golf Club. After a week of inclement Melbourne weather, the sun poked its head through to bring on a fantastic Autumn day for golf. Jason Day would have been proud of the endeavour shown by our golfers as they approached the course. Mentone Grammar’s female golfers were under represented this year. We need more girls on course for next year! Leanne Potter scooped the pool with nearest the pin and longest drive for the women. Scott McIntosh gave the pin a scare on the 11th to take Nearest the Pin and Neil Jenkins drove the ball a long, long way down the 9th to take Longest Drive.

Winners for the day, off a handicap of 12, shot a net 55. Congratulations to Michael Farrugia, Daryl Cosgrove, Graeme Booth, Ross Markley. The winners of The Mentonians’ Trophy on the day were: Sam Hecker, Sven Samild, Tim Litchfield, Anthony Holmes with a net score of 56.75. We are grateful to our sponsors for the day: Danihers, LIME Catering, SJ Higgins Group, Double D Plumbing, Gallagher Jeffs Consulting, Noone Imagewear, SSAEC Air Conditioning, Hunter Industrials, KRA Wealth Management, mhealth, Trident Computer Services and Willis Australia. We look forward to seeing Mentone Grammar’s Golfing Community on course in 2017 for another friend raising round of sandbelt golf. BILL MCTIGUE - P&F REPRESENTATIVE

With thanks to our major sponsors of our Community Golf Day:

MENTONE GRAMMAR

FOUNDATION BUILDING FUND THE SCHOOL GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES THE FOLLOWING DONORS TO THE MENTONE GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOUNDATION BUILDING FUND UP UNTO, AND INCLUDING, MAY 2016.

Mrs M Adams

Mr & Mrs F Filikotzias

Mr & Mrs R Langenfelds

Mr & Mrs K A Reed

Mr D Butler & Ms E Akasaka

Mr M Flavell & Ms M Read-Flavell

Mr & Mrs H Latchford

Mr & Mrs M Reinehr

Mr & Mrs R Alford

Mr & Dr N Fletcher

Mr S Lawson & Ms C Ditchburn

Mr T Riley

Mr & Mrs T Appel

Mrs T Flower

Dr & Mrs P Leason

Mr & Mrs G Robson

Mr & Mrs M Armstrong

Mr & Mrs N Fraser

Mr & Mrs L Leonard

Mr & Mrs R Roos

Mr N Armstrong & Ms K Lane

Mr A Fraser

Mr & Mrs R Leydin

Mr & Mrs J Rosaia

Mrs P Avery

Mr & Mrs M Frost

Mr X Li & Ms H Zheng

Mr & Mrs R Rotar

Mr & Mrs S Basin

Mr G Furneaux

Mr L Liu & Ms J Xia

Mr P Roy & Ms B Khoo

Mr & Mrs S Bera

Mr & Mrs S Gardiner

Mr Y Liu & Ms D Ji

Mr & Mrs P Ryan

Mr & Mrs S Blain-Bartle

Mr & Mrs L Gelbak

Mr Lowe & Ms C Barker-Hemings

Mr S Sabih & Mrs G Hassoun

Mr A Blasse

Mr & Mrs F Giannioglou

Mr J Orr & Mrs A Lucena-Orr

Mr & Mrs D Scott

Mr & Mrs R Booth

Mr & Mrs D Gill

Mr & Mrs O Magee

Mr & Mrs G Shepherd

Mr P Bosa & Mrs R Stobart

Mr & Mrs E Glotzer

Mr P Magennis & Ms J Haslam

Mr & Mrs D Sheridan

Mr & Mrs M Bouwmeester

Mr & Mrs C Gold

Mr & Mrs N Maggio

Mrs H Shi

Mr & Mrs M J Bowden

Mr D Grant & Mrs N Grant

Mr & Mrs A Malby-Luke

Mr & Mrs M Skinner

Mr K Brodie & Ms B Morris

Mr & Mrs D Grant

Mr R Maluga

Mr & Mrs M Smith

Mr & Mrs A Bromidis

Mr & Mrs R Grey

Mr & Ms D McCall

Mr & Mrs D Smith

Mr & Mrs A Bryant

Mr J Grigoriou

Mr & Mrs M McGrath

Mr & Mrs A So

Mr & Mrs T Bucci

Mr & Mrs N Hall

Mr & Mrs P McKinnon

Mr Y Sun & Ms W Li

Mr & Mrs P Burmeister

Mr & Mrs I G Halliday

Mr & Mrs A Meehan

Mr & Mrs I Svojtka

Mrs S Callaghan

Mr & Ms M Heaven

Mr & Mrs P Mentiplay

Mr B Swifte & Ms A McCormick

Mr & Mrs S Campbell

Mr & Mrs S Hecker

Mr J Miao & Mrs C Lin

Mr & Mrs M Tarlinton

Mr & Mrs D Carnegie

Mr & Mrs R Hennig

Mr & Mrs S Michell

Mr Taylor & Ms M Le Fevre Taylor

Mr & Mrs K Carson

Mr & Mrs R Henricks

Mr A Moore & Ms M Momsen

Mr A Terry & Ms S Clark

Mr M Chan & Miss R Wane

Mr & Mrs G Holland

Mr K Mooney & Ms K Brown

Mr & Mrs S Thai

Mr & Mrs B Chaplin

Mr & Mrs A Hood

Mr & Mrs S Mottram

Mr & Mrs B Thiele

Mr & Mrs V Chun

Mr & Mrs S Hooker

Mr & Mrs C Nassau

Mr & Mrs T Thompson

Mr & Mrs D Close

Mr & Mrs Hopkins

Mr & Mrs J Natsioulas

Mr M Turnbull & Ms S Maurer

Mr & Mrs P Colliver

Mr & Mrs S Howell

Ms J Considine

Mr & Mrs S Turner

Mr & Mrs L Cox

Mr & Mrs D Ingram

Mr & Mrs L Nung

Mr & Mrs S Vallis

Mr & Mrs G Cunnington

Mrs D Jackson

Mr M Officer

Mr & Mrs D van Straaten

Mr & Mrs S Dakic

Mr C Ji & Ms L Zhang

Dr & Mrs O-J

Mr & Mrs J Vear

Mr & Mrs A Demura

Mr & Mrs D Jones

Mr & Mrs G Orfanidis

Mr & Mrs D Vise

Mr & Mrs K Devers

Mr & Mrs B Jones

Mr & Mrs C Papadopoulos

Mr M Wagstaff & Ms S Chaffey

Mr & Mrs J Di Tirro

Mr A Littleford & Ms C Jupp

Mr I Parker

Mr & Mrs R Watkins

Mr S Ding & Ms C Wu

Mr & Mrs J Kalogerakis

Mr & Mrs D Parr

Miss D Watson

Mr R Djurovic & Ms I Ross

Mr J Karras & Miss T James

Mr R Paterson & Ms M Valenti

Mr & Mrs B Weber

Mr P Dykas & Ms A Bondini

Mr & Mrs P Kelsey

Mr & Mrs Patron

Mr & Mrs W White

Mrs K Edwards

Mr & Mrs S Kennedy

Rev & Mrs K J Pedersen

Mr & Mrs F Hutchinson

Mr & Mrs P Ellix

Mrs K Keogh

Mr & Mrs Pertich

Mr & Mrs M Winestone

Mr & Mrs M Evans

Mr & Mrs G Kershaw

Mr & Mrs N Petrie

Mr M Griffith & Ms C Woods

Ms J Ewart & Mr B McTigue

Mrs E Kidd

Mr & Mrs G Phillips

Mr G Xu & Ms S Wu

Mr & Mrs A Fagan

Mr & Mrs L Krol

Mr & Mrs P Piotrowski

Mr & Mrs R Zallmann

Mr & Mrs G Felsenthal

Mr M & Ms M Landgraf

Mr & Mrs S Poll

Mr R Zallmann Mr W Wang

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

TMA COMMITTEE THE MENTONIANS

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

President

Mark Pearman (1982)

Vice President

Andrew Oxland (1988)

Secretary

John Ponnusamy (2010)

Treasurer

Vic Stroumos (1978)

Committee Members

Josh Burt (1989) Cameron Dunkerley (1986) Tony Falkingham (1981) Phil Harrington (2010) Mark Henricks (1977) Ashley Hudson (2007) Miranda Ingram (2013) Imogen Lawson (2014)

LIKE OUR GREAT SCHOOL, THE MENTONIANS ASSOCIATION – THE BODY THAT OVERSEES ALL PAST STUDENTS AND THE VARIOUS SPORTING CLUBS – IS ALSO EXPERIENCING A ‘GOLDEN ERA’. THANKS TO THE WONDERFUL SUPPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, THE TIRELESS WORK FROM OUR TWO STAFF, GREG WILKINSON AND FIONA DALLAS, AND AN EVER GROWING AND ENTHUSIASTIC COMMITTEE, THE ASSOCIATION HAS SEEN A GROWTH SPURT THAT MATCHES THAT OF THE SCHOOL.

Our sporting clubs are also flourishing with Basketball expanding to six senior and 23 junior teams, Women’s Soccer and Netball are firmly established and our Hockey and Cricket clubs continuing to be wonderfully successful; and of course, there is our Football Club. After much off field restructuring and an active player recruitment program, the club is enjoying a season like no other. At the time of writing wins of well over 100 points being the norm!

We have undoubtedly had the most successful start of any year in our history. Wonderful functions and events led by the Shoreham Family Picnic and our hugely successful Community Sports Day have been a highlight, while our reunion nights continue to be very special occasions. I am privileged to witness so much joy as old friends come together to enjoy marvellous nights full of catching up and camaraderie.

Sven Samild (1987) Rob Sinclair (1976) Ben Tardrew (2004) Alumni Director

Greg Wilkinson

Alumni and Development Office Manager

Fiona Dallas

It’s a fantastic time to be a member of The Mentonians Association and I thank all who give their time so freely to make it such a joy. Regards

MARK PEARMAN PRESIDENT

MENTONIAN CONTACTS Office

Perth

9581 3254 oma@mentonegrammar.net www.mentonegrammar.net/community/ old-mentonians/

John Adeney (1963) johnadeney@iinet.net.au

Malaysia Kuala Lumpur

Kamal Ragupathy (1992) kamalpathy@gmail.com

Tasmania Hobart

Michael ‘Rusty’ Reynolds (1986) michael.reynolds@dhhs.tas.gov.au

USA Florida

David Pearson (1987) aussiepearson@gmail.com

USA New York

Chris Leslie (1982) chris.leslie@macquarie.com Arnold Ephraums (1982) aephraums@mac.com Chris Jacob (1999) cj@cjacob.com

USA Vermont

Justin Johnson (1985) qdo606@gmail.com

Singapore

David Goh (1961) davegoh@fastdel.com

Thailand

Jitti Rachjaibun (1964) jitti_rach@dhonsiridsel.co.th David Wylie (1973) david.wylie@yahoo.com

Alumni Director

Greg Wilkinson gregw@mentonegrammar.net 0434 423 832

National Adelaide

Peter Bray (1985) peter.bray@westnet.com.au

Brisbane

Ross McLeish (1970) rossamcleish@gmail.com

Canberra

Michael Taylor (1955) mbt@netspeed.com.au

Sydney

Patrick Harrington (1990) patrick.harrington@gwsgiants.com.au

International Canada Ontario

Mervyn Archdall (1957) marchdall@rogers.com

England London

Cambell Lean (1993) Cambell.Lean@isgplc.com

England Plymouth

John Read (1973) theoldtro@gmail.com

Hong Kong

Peter Cheung (1992) cpcheuc@hotmail.com Richard Lo (1997) richard.lo@gmart-express.com

Japan Onomichi City

Gareth O’Gradie (1999) ogradie@hotmail.com

Please contact the TMA Office by telephone on 9581 3254 or via email at: oma@mentonegrammar.net if you would like to become one of our Mentonian contacts. 35

FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS

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WHAT A YEAR IT HAS BEEN SO FAR FOR THE MENTONIANS! FOLLOWING THE WELCOME BACK FUNCTION WE HAVE ENTERTAINED HUNDREDS OF MENTONIANS, PARENTS AND CURRENT STUDENTS AT A VARIETY OF EVENTS.

Our annual Swimming Breakfast attracted another bumper crowd where newly crowned Australian Triathlon Champion, Marcel Walkington (2007), was our special guest. As is our custom, last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s captains hosted the event where we wish the swimmers all the best for the season ahead. You can read more about Marcel later in this magazine. The Shoreham Family Picnic continues to grow in popularity. The purpose of the day is twofold. It gives families new to the School an opportunity to inspect this wonderful facility and also allows Mentonians to view the developments which have occurred since they last visited the camp. It certainly was terrific to speak to Mentonians who were getting quite a buzz from being back at a site where they had enjoyed such great times in the past. The Mentone Grammar Community Sports Day proved yet another outstanding success. In addition to the 11 different competitions played between Mentonians and current students we had teams of young student basketballers and netballers join us. They loved being part of the day and were grateful

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

for the medal they received as a keepsake. With bands and soloists again a feature and an Animal Farm and Jumping Castle, the event is now really starting to acquire a community feel. As usual the day of friendly competition was capped off with lunch where results were announced and best players acknowledged. Well over 350 attended which was a terrific outcome. Our reunion program continues to build and some very successful nights have been enjoyed by members of the 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 and 2011 year groups. An optional tour of the School now precedes drinks in Greenways. These have proved very popular as new developments are viewed and memories revived. After drinks it is on to the Function Centre for dinner and a night of catching up and reminiscing. Always a highlight is the presence of former teachers and thanks go to the many who make our nights even more special.

Marcel Walkington with the coaches and captains of 2014 and 2015.

Shoreham Family Picnic.

Netball was a highlight at the Community Sports Day.

2011 Alumni enjoyed a fun night catch up.

Former teacher Dan Wallace with members of the 2001 Alumni.

Shane Warne speaks from the jungle whilst filming a TV show.

The coveted cap.

Father and son: Simon (1979) and James Grant (2015).

Ivan Eaves (1966) and Premiership Cricket coaches entertain.

Members of the 2000 Cricket Premiership team.

06 09 Celebration of Cricket It was a night that promised much and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappoint. Over 100 former First XI players and former coaches filled the Function Centre to enjoy what was truly one of the great nights where our first AGSV Premiership and Cricket at the School was celebrated. Tim Appel (1986), Master of Ceremonies, did a sterling job hosting the evening starting with the many emailed apologies. Shane Warne went one better with a video from the South African jungle. It proved a big hit as Shane wished us all the best for a great night and also spoke warmly of his time at the School. Next followed the Director of Cricket, Everard Fenton, who emphasised the place in history each former player held and how the current players would one day join them. The team was then introduced by Captain Jack Cunnington.

The highlight of the evening was the panel of Premiership coaches with Mike Wilton, Trevor Stevens, John Mason and Ivan Eaves. Ivan was the Vice-Captain of the 1965 Premiership team and was standing in for the coach, the late Jack Arnold. Wonderful stories were told, but none better than those by Ivan about his opening batting partner, the late David Keech. The panel could have gone on all night but, as they say in show business, its best to leave them wanting more. And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what they did! The most pleasing aspect of the evening was that it was enjoyed by all, from the youngest to the oldest. It was a night where all shared a common bond - they had all played First XI Cricket for Mentone Grammar. We look forward to another Celebration of Cricket in the not too distant future.

10 A Celebration of Soccer (2017) Following the outstanding success of the Cricket Dinner, Soccer will be celebrated next year on Friday 24 March 2017. This night will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Old Mentonians Soccer Club and all who have played for the School and/or with the OMSC. In addition, we will be honouring former teachers Bob Brailsford and Trevor Scott who brought Soccer to the School in the early 1980s. Now is the time for all former players to mark their diaries and to spread the word.

MARCEL’S 2020 CHALLENGE 01 03 01-03 Marcel’s win at the OTU Oceania Cup and Australian Standard Distance Championship in Gisborne, New Zealand.

02 AS THE CAPTAIN OF THE 2011 BOYS’ PREMIERSHIP SWIMMING TEAM MARCEL WALKINGTON (2011) LED BY HIS ACTIONS, NOT BY HIS WORDS. SINCE LEAVING SCHOOL HE HAS APPLIED THAT SAME QUIET DETERMINATION TO BECOME THE 2016 AUSTRALIAN ELITE TRIATHLON CHAMPION. THIS SPORT, INVOLVING THE THREE DISCIPLINES OF SWIMMING, CYCLING AND RUNNING PUSHES ATHLETES TO THE VERY LIMITS OF HUMAN ENDURANCE. WHAT IS IT THAT ATTRACTS HIM TO SUCH A GRUELLING SPORT?

‘I like to challenge myself, to push myself and hopefully to win.’ And challenge himself he does! When in full training he does 30 hours a week which includes over 25km of swimming, 300km of riding and 90km of running. In addition, he does three gym sessions a week where he does a lot of stretching and some weight training under the careful eye of the coaches at the Victorian Institute of Sport in Albert Park. He also likes the travel aspect of the sport. It has taken him around the world to countries including Spain, France, Latvia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Tahiti and he has recently returned from China. And his favourite? ‘For race and city it would be Karlovy in the Czech Republic. The city is stunning while the race is really interesting with the swim done in a lake, the ride over steep hills through the city and a run which winds through the streets. It’s tough, but enjoyable.’ His interest in Triathlon was sparked while still at School. In the year after leaving, 2012, he became the Australian and Oceanic Junior Champion and the Australian Junior Triathlon Series Champion. His ambition is to represent Australia at the Olympics, but not this year. ‘Triathletes usually hit their peak at around their mid 20s which makes the 2020 Games perfect for me.’

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KYE WYLDE

However, his life involves more than just training and races. He is currently completing a Bachelor of Science at Melbourne University where he is majoring in Civil Engineering. ‘I feel that having a well-structured and organised timetable is the key to managing my study and triathlon commitments. I have clear goals for both of them and I always try to organise my time wisely to make sure I fulfil both to the fullest.’ One would think that a highly tuned athlete would be on a strict diet. Surprisingly this not the case as he has no dietitian looking over his shoulder and he eats as he pleases although is careful not to put on excess weight as it would only make it harder to run, swim and cycle. Finally, the question I just had to ask. ‘How does he keep going when every muscle and sinew in his body is screaming out to stop?’ He smiles, shrugs and answers, ‘I train to push past the pain barrier. It’s all part of challenging yourself.’ Known as ‘Chuckles’ for his ready smile and easy laugh, Marcel is a fine product of Mentone Grammar. We wish him well in his attempt to become the U23 World Champion to be held in Mexico in September and in his quest to become an Olympian in 2020.

FROM PEN AND PAPER TO DIGITAL 01-02

The past to the present.

03 Alan receives his award at Coffs Harbour.

ALAN ROSE (1974) WAS AN EXCELLENT STUDENT WHO REFUSED A SCHOLARSHIP TO MELBOURNE HIGH SCHOOL TO REMAIN AT MENTONE. HE HAD ASPIRATIONS OF ARCHITECTURE OR A POSITION WITH THE PUBLIC SERVICE. HOWEVER, HE ALSO LIKED TO CARICATURE TEACHERS AND PUPILS IN CLASS AND IT WAS THIS LOVE OF DRAWING THAT TOOK HIM IN A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT DIRECTION.

‘After studying all the right subjects to enable me to enter University I just knew I had to follow my heart. My parents were incredibly supportive when I decided to enrol in Graphic Design at RMIT.’ While studying, he also worked on the back copy sales counter at the Herald Sun. He made a point of regularly visiting the design department and just let it slip that he was doing a graphic design course. One thing led to another and he got a position as a cadet artist. ‘It was a terrific area in which to be involved. I was paid to do something I loved. I’ve lived through an incredible time in the history of newspapers - from type set to computers.’ He left the Herald Sun in the early 80s and worked at various jobs as a layout artist. During this time he freelanced as a cartoonist and caricaturist including three years in London. There he worked at a local newspaper group, whilst contributing cartoons for a London based Australian magazine and doing personal caricatures.

‘Cartooning has come a long way over the years; from pen and paper to digital. I started my cartooning career using felt pens and colour markers. I now use a Cintiq drawing table that allows me to draw digitally straight onto the screen.’ He is currently producing a cartoon strip for seven country newspapers entitled, The Fabulous Bush Pigs. It is based on Alan’s experience as a harmonica player in Blues and Country and Western bands. ‘When doing a cartoon strip one needs to devise consistent characters and short simple plots. There can be a continuing story line, but each strip needs to stand up on its own.’ In 2014 Alan won one of the prestigious Coffs Harbour Rotary Cartoon Awards. It was for the Open section and the topic was ‘Men’s Sheds’. ‘These awards are entered by the cream of Australia’s cartoonists and caricaturists. It is an honour to be selected in the final nominations, let alone winning an award.’

Last year he won a prize in the Kingston Council Artz Blitz. This is where you get a topic at 5pm Friday and have to have the finished piece to them by 5pm Saturday. Alan’s love of drawing has not diminished over the years. He draws no matter where he is. Each Boxing Day he takes pen and paper to the Cricket to do a caricature of one of the players. He also draws at many AFL matches at the MCG, including every Grand Final. ‘I sometimes present them to the players. I have met people such as Sir Richard Hadlee and Imran Khan doing this.’ He also does caricature portraits for birthdays and special occasions. ‘It is important when doing a caricature to combine exaggeration of the face with the person’s interests. Ideas are as important as the drawing.’ The fading importance of newspapers to our society brings another challenge to cartoonists. They have to adapt to the digital world.

TMA COMMUNITY NEWS The Mentonians Acquisitive Art Prize Now in its fifth year this initiative enables the School to retain the works of current students for display in perpetuity. Pictured at the 2015 Art Show Opening is TMA Committee member and Past President, Guy Bassett (1977), presenting recipient, Bianca Ryder, with her winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cheque. We congratulate Bianca and her painting will now join the works of our previous winners.

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Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

McKinnon family sets new record With Sonny McKinnon now joining his brothers we now have one brother in each Campus of the School – Sonny in Eblana, Tully in Bayview, Finlay in Greenways and Jamieson in Frogmore. Well done to proud parents Peter (1987) and Kristin. We believe this is a first!

Facebook - Have you liked us yet? Our Facebook page continues to attract likes. At the time of writing we have 640 likes with the Shane Warne video being viewed over 11,000 times and has reached over 23,000 people. In fact, since the beginning of February, our posts have reached over 22,000 people. Our likes are spread over more than 10 countries, including the UK, USA, UAE, Malaysia, NZ, Canada, Hong Kong, Norway, Rwanda, France, PNG, Sri Lanka, India, China and Japan and the page has been translated into eight languages, including, would you believe, Pirate English. www.facebook.com/thementonians

John Peers World ranked Doubles player

Our Clubs go from Strength to Strength

Regular readers of the Mentor will recall an article about John that was published in 2013. Since that time John, together with doubles partner Jamie Murray, has gone from strength to strength adding back-to-back Grand Slam finals at Wimbledon and the US Open to their six ATP titles. This allowed them to qualify for the illustrious 2015 ATP World Tour Finals in London.

It has often been said that the clubs are the backbone of the Mentonians Association. And what a backbone it is! Our clubs continue to grow bigger and better. The Cricket Club has been phenomenally successful for a number of years, Hockey is one of the biggest and most successful in Victoria and Basketball now has four senior teams and well over 20 junior teams. Our Football Club is enjoying the best start to the season in years while the Soccer Club is now fielding a Women’s team for the first time in its history.

While these have been huge career highlights, perhaps John’s greatest achievement came early in 2016 when he made his Davis Cup debut against the USA. Partnering with one of Australia’s best players, Lleyton Hewitt, John was the dominant force against perhaps the world’s best-ever pairs in the Bryan brothers. This year has also brought about a change in partner, with Finland’s Henri Kontinen replacing Jamie Murray. The pair had immediate success with a win at the Brisbane International in their first tournament together. John has now set his sights on a maiden Grand Slam in 2016 as well as the Rio Olympics.

In addition, we also have a Netball team in weekly competition and a Touch Rugby team that plays at Fawkner Park. I take this opportunity to thank and congratulate all who are working hard to make our clubs so successful. Your efforts are greatly appreciated and bearing great fruit. For further details about our clubs please visit these websites: Basketball www.facebook.com/ombcbasketball Cricket - www.oldmentonianscc.com Football - omfcpanthers.teamapp.com A free smartphone app is also available by searching for ‘OMFC Panthers’ Soccer - www.omsc.net.au Hockey - www.mentonehockey.org.au For information regarding Netball and Touch Rugby please contact the Mentonians Office. 9581 3254 oma@mentonegrammar.net

Bianca Ryder receives The Mentonians Inquisitive Art Prize from Guy Bassett.

Tennis champion, John Peers.

The McKinnon family enjoying a TMA breakfast.

The Mentonians Facebook page.

Our first Mentonians Women’s Soccer Team.

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VALE

The School has recently lost three former teachers in David Horton, Cal Sibley and Anton Blacker.

DAVID HORTON 15 Aug 1930 - 2 Jan 2016 David joined the staff of Mentone Grammar from Haileybury College in 1968, spending the next 22 years with us teaching senior Chemistry and Biology in his precise and coherent manner, always master of the detail he was expounding. He was appointed Housemaster of Jones House in 1969 and worked on the sound educational principle that the students themselves must take responsibility for the running of their own House under his general oversight. His passion for Cadets was at once obvious where his meticulous planning left nothing to chance. David also offered Mentone Grammar a variety of sporting talents: Football, Tennis and Softball. All these he coached very much ‘hands on’ with vigour and enthusiasm. David was sociable and urbane. He enjoyed good conversation, but he was not afraid to hold and express unconventional views. He had a questing heart; seizing opportunities and realising possibilities, qualities that one can only admire in a fellow human being. He achieved much by way of life experiences and was clearly impatient with the status quo. He made a profound contribution to our School.

CALVIN SIBLEY 31 Aug 1929 - 7 Feb 2016 Calvin joined the staff of Mentone Grammar School in 1952 as the Senior Science Master at the School. Therefore, at the tender age of 23 he was applying his considerable knowledge, skill and youthful energy to the teaching of Physics and Chemistry at senior level. Although mathematically-inclined students were at once stimulated by Calvin’s skilful balancing of chemical equations and the wondrous complexities of redox reactions, he was also extraordinarily patient with the struggling student. Cal loved his subject and was a true teacher who sought to infuse in his students the same fascination with scientific enquiry and exhilaration of discovery that he experienced.

Mentone Grammar MENTOR ISSUE 1 2016

01 In 1965, after 13 years of service to Mentone Grammar, he resigned to take up a post in the Physics Department at Swinburne Technical College which became Swinburne University of Technology in 1992. There he was instrumental in establishing a program which visited schools across the state to encourage students to embrace the study of science. Australia owes Cal a huge debt of gratitude for his part in influencing many a student to become one of the next generation of scientists.

ANTON BLACKER 2 July 1920 - 13 June 2016 It is with sadness that the School records the passing of one of its former Senior Science Masters and its first student counsellor, Anton Blacker. Anton took up an appointment at Mentone Grammar following enquiries he made in 1962 as to available teaching posts in Melbourne. As a graduate of the University of London he had been teaching in Kandy, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) for many years followed by time in Eastern Nigeria. In all his dealings with both staff members and students he was a true gentleman, kindly and understanding, with a strong Christian faith. As Master in charge of Hockey, his zeal reinvigorated the sport to a degree that more than matched that of the devotees of the other major sports. Not surprisingly his motivation made him a role model for many,

03 01

David Horton.

Calvin Sibley

Anton Blacker

including the likes of Tony Dayton who was to take over the management of Hockey in Anton’s wake. Anton spent 10 fulfilling yeas at Mentone Grammar, teaching senior Physics, Mathematics, as well as keeping a close eye on student welfare and providing career advice.

Labore et Honore.

CONNECTING OUR COMMUNITY School Tours

The Mentonians Association (TMA)

TMA Event Calendar 2016 (Semester 2)

Our next School Tour dates for 2016: Saturday 13 August 9.30am & 11am Thursday 20 October 9am

Our purpose is to serve our members and to support the School.

Fri 15 July

TMA Brisbane Dinner

Sat 16 July

TMA Sydney Dinner

We aim to excel at meeting our members’ needs and to achieve this we have expanded the events calendar to maximise contact with as many past students as possible through reunions, breakfasts, clubs, special events and other TMA activities.

Tue 19 July

TMA Annual General Meeting

Sat 23 July

School Ball (School event all Mentonians welcome)

Fri 29 July

Reunion Night 1976/1981/1986 Leavers

Tue 2 Aug

Business Network Function

Business Network

Sat 6 Aug

Annual Dinner

We continue to build our database of businesses and if you would like your business to feature on our new look Business Network website please email Fiona on fionad@mentonegrammar.net

Wed 31 Aug

Communion Service

Tue 11 Oct

Business Network Function

Wed 19 Oct

Friends of Frogmore Lunch at Shoreham

Fri 11 Nov

TMA Remembrance Day Service

Fri 25 Nov

Reunion Night - 2015

Thu 7 Dec

Carol Service St Paul’s Cathedral

To book, visit: www.mentonegrammar.net For enrolment enquiries email: enrol@mentonegrammar.net or phone 9584 4211. Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/mentonegrammar Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/mentonegrammar

Facilities R. M. Sykes Shoreham Camp Marine Parade, Shoreham (Melways Ref: 256 J7) Keysborough Playing Fields 756–768 Springvale Road, Keysborough

For further information please contact Fiona Dallas at The Mentonians Office (03) 9581 3254 or email: thementonians@mentonegrammar.net

Mentone Grammar Aquatic Centre Lucerne Street, Mentone Grammar Campus Phone: 9581 3288

We’d like you to Like, Tweet, Tag or Join Us!

Greenways Café Greenways Campus Manager: Katherine Nish Phone: 9584 4211 Parents and Friends Association pandf@mentonegrammar.net President: Mia le Fevre School contact Natalie Wilson nataliew@mentonegrammar.net

Community Events 2016 Visit www.mentonegrammar.net for details

Online Mentonians Magazines With the addition of the 1991 – 2015 Mentonian magazines, I am pleased that we now have a complete set of Mentonian magazines online. Many of the recent magazines are so big that we have divided them into three parts for ease of downloading. You can access the magazines by going to the Mentonian Magazines tab on the Mentonians website.

Social media is the quickest most up to date form of communication of our time. With this in mind The Mentonians have adopted a suite of social media platforms to help get our message out and keep our community connected. Like us and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to keep up to date with all the latest news and events. By downloading the TMA app you are able to have all three platforms as well as event calendars, contact details and so much more. It is free and is available for both android and iPhone by searching The Mentonians. The Mentonians can be found via the below details; Twitter: @the_Mentonians Facebook: www.facebook.com/thementonians LinkedIn: The Mentonians Mentonians App: Search for The Mentonians 43

Mentone Grammar 63 Venice Street Mentone Victoria Australia 3194 Tel: +61 3 9584 4211 Fax: +61 3 9581 3290 enquiry@mentonegrammar.net

TOGETHERAPARTTOGETHER ELC-YEAR 4

YEAR 5-9

YEAR 10-12

www.mentonegrammar.net Outstanding Coeducational Opportunities ELC-12