Extraordinary Women
Alumni on the frontline In the fight against COVID-19
Kirstin Wright (2000) NSW bushfire survivor
From the President of the Alumni Committee Helen Carr Alumni Committee President
What a year 2020 has been so far, my first in the role of incoming President. Just a few weeks into Term 1, we were proud to host another successful Shakers and Stirrers networking evening with the Old Wesley Collegians, on Friday 21 February at The Windsor Hotel in South Perth. With more than 200 guests, this was our biggest turnout in the event’s 10-year history, and it was particularly lovely to see some of our more recent graduates. One of my key ambitions as new President of the Alumni Committee is to find more ways to engage with our students from Year 10, so they understand what it means to become a proud lifetime member of our wonderful community on graduation – and then to keep those young women engaged as they begin their life journeys, whichever path they may choose. For International Women’s Day, the Penrhos College Foundation hosted a presentation by social and business entrepreneur, award-winning speaker, leadership facilitator and change-maker, Alicia Curtis, on Thursday 5 March. Following Alicia’s inspirational piece, 2020 Penrhos School Captain Mignon du Plessis hosted a live Q&A with Penrhos alum and inaugural
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recipient of the Penrhos Alumni Endeavour Award, Jessica Baldock (2014). Jess has travelled to Laos, Thailand and Sri Lanka to undertake community development volunteering work as her worthy and recognised Endeavour project. We were delighted to have her with us, once again. On Friday 6 March, the College welcomed more than 100 of our youngest alumni for their 18-month reunion at the Colwyn Centre. The Class of 2018 enjoyed a fun-filled evening catching up with friends and staff whilst sipping on mimosas and sampling delicious canapés. Shortly afterwards, COVID-19 struck, and we were sadly obliged to postpone our much-anticipated Gin and Jazz Soiree, along with a number of reunions and the annual Mother Daughter dinner. We are now able to share the revised calendar of alumni events and reunions for 2020 — see page 17 for details. The College team continued to serve the Penrhos community through lock-down and you will be aware that a comprehensive alumni survey was issued in May, following extensive consultation, via
external agency and sectoral specialist MMG. We achieved a 15% response rate, which is in line with the ideal benchmark; I would like to thank all alumni who participated, on behalf of both the Alumni Association and the College. Members of the Alumni Committee will be working closely with the College over coming months on a fresh new engagement plan, designed to incorporate your feedback. As a Committee and a body, we are keen to work with the Penrhos College Foundation for the ongoing benefit of our students and wider community. In line with this commitment, we are dedicated to supporting the capital campaign for the new Science Innovation Centre, by way of our own dedicated Alumni Lookout project – please take a moment to read more about this exciting initiative on page 9. In other news, we were saddened to learn of the passing of former Head of Junior School, Mrs Jennifer Robertson. Jennifer’s deep association with the College continued well beyond her retirement and she was a much-loved member of the Penrhosian Club. Our deepest condolences to Jennifer’s daughters, Annie and Kate. Please see the College’s tribute to Jennifer on page 18 of The Penrhosian. It only remains for me to thank my fellow Committee members and to pay my enormous respects to Meg Melville, as the College’s sixth Principal. It has been my honour to work with Meg and I am grateful the restrictions were lifted in time for me to farewell her in style, at a June dinner attended by members of the Alumni Committee. We are also delighted to re-name the Alumni Endeavour Award after Meg, in keeping with her eternal spirit and lasting legacy — we wish you the very best in your next chapter, Meg.
2020 Penrhos School captain Mignon du Plessis hosted a live Q&A with Penrhos alum Jessica Baldock (2014) for International Women's Day.
Biannual magazine for the Penrhos alumni community
Extraordinary Women… and a few good men In recognition of the members of our alumni who studied with us as boys (1952– early 1980s)
Contents
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From the President of the Alumni Committee
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Meg Melville over the decades — memories from alumni
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Alumni on the frontline in the fight against COVID-19
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Claim your space at the top of the world
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Kirstin Wright (2000) NSW bushfire survivor
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Vale: Emily Choy 4.3.1988 – 23.2.2020
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Out and about
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Photo gallery: alumni events
COVER PHOTO Natasha Lade (2010), senior critical care physiotherapist for the National Health Service (NHS) in London
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Meg Melville over the decades — memories from alumni
My congratulations to you for your sensitive, sophisticated leadership and communications. I wish you every happiness with the next chapter in your life. I believe Penrhos has been in great hands and your legacy will be long and strong. My very best wishes to you. Joanna Hayter AO (1977) I first came to know Meg in 1980 when she was my Form teacher. As a Year 12 cohort we all LOVED what she wore! Especially her bright pink blouse and skirt, as can be seen in the photo below. And we all loved Meg as a person. She was young and enthusiastic and, for 17-yearold girls at that time, a fabulous role model. When I came back to the College as a staff member in 1985, I remember my sister saying to me, “Make sure you have some nice clothes. You need to look as good as Mrs Melville.” Over the years, Meg has been my teacher and colleague. I have worked under her in her various roles as Head of Senior School, Principal and representative of the Alumni Committee. In every role, Meg has been the epitome of class, a firm but fair leader and an outstanding ambassador for Penrhos College. She will be sorely missed by all. Susan Hampson (Edwards, 1980)
Meg has been an inspirational leader for students, staff and alumni over the last 10 years as Principal, and in her 30 years at Penrhos prior. Having joined the College as an Economics teacher in 1979, Meg held various roles including Head of Year, Head of Department, Head of Senior School and ultimately Principal. Meg holds a very special place in many hearts – to celebrate her time at Penrhos, we have gathered fond and lovely memories from across our alumni community. Sincere thanks to those Old Girls who shared their messages to help farewell Meg. Meg Melville was such an inspirational Economics teacher that I went on to study Economics at UWA. Her
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classes were not only interesting, but fun. I remember her exasperation at our limited attention span. “Oh girls,” she would sigh when we’d get distracted by another photo of Mark Lee or Mel Gibson! In fact, one lesson was so much fun that I was asked to leave the class in the politest ‘Meg Melville way’ because I was laughing so hysterically (with tears running down my face) at some smart comment Erica Lorimer had made. I was unable to sufficiently compose myself to return to the class for the remainder of the lesson, but Meg still didn’t get cross with me. It was the only time in my entire schooling that I was asked to leave a class and it was done in such a beautiful way.
Meg Melville has been an outstanding Principal of Penrhos College and an inspiration to the Penrhos community. During my time at Penrhos, I was particularly inspired by Mrs Melville’s willingness to embrace and champion STEM initiatives in keeping with a constantly evolving technological world. In person, Mrs Melville’s warmth and desire to engage with Penrhos students shines through. She was incredibly supportive of my goals and achievements, for which I am very grateful. Her contribution to Penrhos has been beyond exceptional and she will be greatly missed by the community. Julianne Smith (2014)
Every girl who has had the pleasure of being taught by Meg or being led by Meg, or who had their daughters taught / led by Meg is so lucky! I’ve been trying to convince her to lead schools in Sydney for years and now maybe we can get her! I wish her all the best for the future and thank her for being in so many of my wonderful school memories. Jennie Kluck (Bird, 1984)
Meg was always so supportive and accommodating of any ideas or initiatives involving the Alumni Committee and was always available for functions, meetings, a friendly chat or advice. I would like to thank Meg from the bottom of my heart for all her support, advice and direction during my time as Alumni President. Meg was also the School Principal whilst my daughters Sophie and Georgia Yaksich (2013) were at Penrhos. Both girls loved Meg and what an amazing role model she was for them. On behalf of myself, Sophie and Georgia, I would like to thank Meg for everything and wish her all the best on her retirement. Amanda Yaksich (Watson, 1976) Former Alumni Committee President (2010-19)
I have so many memories of Meg’s substantive attributes as a leader, but I wanted to also make a lighter point, that her elegance on every day of the week has been a continuing source of inspiration for me as to how a woman can dress in a way that is stylish and reflects her personal style, and at the same time is totally polished and professional. I do think of Meg as I am moving through my closet on a work morning! Ashleigh Owens (2001) I remember Mrs Melville as a very stylish teacher with a radiant smile. It wasn’t until I came back as a parent that I came to know Meg, a compassionate and wise woman. I will be forever grateful for Meg’s discreet assistance in helping my nervous new starters adjust to the expansive Penrhos world. I have been inspired by Meg’s true leadership not only in education, but on matters such as equality, child protection and COVID-19. Thank you for being an inspirational leader! Felicity Huxtable (Clarke, 1990)
While I will always cherish the detention letter you issued when I didn’t wear my blazer to a 2004 Principal’s Assembly, I will equally cherish your letter welcoming me to the Marketing Department as an employee in 2018. Meg, your warmth, calmness and kindness has inspired generations of girls, and I feel just as inspired by you now as I did as a 16-year-old Penrhosian. Thank you for lending your soothing voice to the many radio commercials we recorded together at Nova. You have been coined the David Attenborough of Penrhos because of it! All the best for your future. Maggie Marshall (Elliot, 2005)
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Alumni on the front line in the fight against COVID-19 In this edition of the Penrhosian, we salute those extraordinary women who have actively given of their time and skills in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. To all Penrhos ‘Old Girls’ working on the frontline to maintain the health and wellbeing of communities around the world, we applaud and thank you.
Kylie Pettit (Bolt, 1998) — protecting our elderly After graduating from Penrhos in 1998, Kylie completed her degree in Social Work at Curtin University. She then spent 13 years with the Disability Services Commission before joining the WA Country Health Service (WACHS) Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) for the South West region. Late last year, Kylie agreed to step into the role of Acting Regional Aged Care Manager the South West, just months before the pandemic struck.
Kylie’s husband Matt was also working on the frontline as a Clinical Pharmacist in Bunbury hospital, one of the biggest challenges for the couple has been balancing their busy frontline roles with family life and their two young children. “As a mum, you always carry guilt — the feeling you don’t do any of your jobs well enough. Being new to the manager role, everything was overwhelming, but I figured that managing a pandemic was new to everybody, so I just took each day at a time.” Emma Hobley (Bushell, 2000) — protecting the South West After graduating from Penrhos in 2000 and completing her degree in Medical Science at Curtin University, former boarding student Emma still had strong country ties. She worked in regional hospitals in Collie, Cairns and Katanning before joining the team who opened WA’s first regional COVID-19 clinic at Bunbury Hospital.
With residents in palliative and aged care among the most vulnerable and at-risk in our community, Kylie and her colleagues worked quickly to develop and implement plans to minimise virus exposure to the elderly in their care. The team faced multiple challenges, from supporting emotional health through isolation periods with restricted access to families, through to planning how to best care for patients testing positive to the Coronavirus at home rather than in hospital.
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“Be grateful of your situation — because of your efforts, Australia has avoided catastrophic numbers in terms of both transmission and death.” Natasha Lade (2010) “Working as a scientist during a global pandemic was challenging, but very interesting; it was amazing to watch the effects of one virus on a global level,” said Emma.
fine balance between not wearing the PPE for too long and not wasting vital resources,” said Natasha.
The associated risks of working with COVID-19 patients and samples meant scientists and lab technicians worked in ‘closed lab’ conditions, so teams did not overlap; this meant longer shifts in isolation, to minimise any risk of transmission. The COVID-19 clinic recently received its own compact Polymerise Chain Reaction (PCR) machine which allows the team to process urgent tests on-site and deliver results within an hour turnaround. Natasha Lade (2010) — protecting the UK After living in Melbourne, working in Cabrini Hospital and lecturing in Respiratory Physiotherapy at La Trobe University, Natasha and partner Hamish moved to London in 2019, where the National Health Service (NHS) had to call on all health workers to step up to the frontline in one of the worst affected countries in the world. Natasha’s role as a senior critical care physiotherapist meant she was responsible for managing and upskilling staff to treat patients who tested positive to Coronavirus, many of those staff hadn’t set foot in an ICU for 20 years or more. The highly infectious nature of COVID-19 makes Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) a necessity for frontline workers like Natasha, who says overheating and headaches are a common result of wearing so many layers. “We wear surgical gowns, masks, visors, head covers, gloves and at times extra plastic gowns on top. It’s a
With restrictions and lockdown still very much a part of daily life in the UK, Natasha says the ongoing stress of working in a high-risk environment takes its toll. “We have been exposed to a significant number of patient deaths and we can feel quite helpless at times. Most of us have also lost access to our personal coping mechanisms — like seeing our own family, going to the gym and relaxing with friends.” Natasha says working on the frontline in London has given her a fresh perspective on life. She feels lucky to be in good health and, as restrictions continue to lift throughout Australia, Natasha’s message for us is to “be grateful of your situation — because of your efforts, Australia has avoided catastrophic numbers in terms of both transmission and death.” Erica Davison (Looyen, 1988) — protecting Indigenous communities Erica is the epitome of a lifelong learner, who shows no sign of slowing down. After qualifying and working as
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“All activity from a health perspective has been tremendously collaborative and collegiate in WA, with staff and agencies working together and with the sentiment ‘we are all in this together’.” Erica Davison (Looyen, 1988) a teacher, Erica went on to complete her postgraduate studies in Public Health, followed by a Master of Science and eventually a Doctor of Education, and last year achieved a Fellowship of the Australasian College of Health Service Management. She held senior roles in education and public health before her appointment as Assistant General Manager Strategy & Engagement with the WA Primary Health Alliance (WAPHA), which supports primary healthcare in WA. During the pandemic, WAPHA immediately established dedicated working groups to address specific activities and sectors with up-to-date, relevant information on the spread of the virus. Specifically, Erica has executive leadership of the highly skilled team responsible for delivering WAPHA’s daily clinical communication update for all GPs and practices in WA. Erica also leads the Aboriginal Health working group, which is focused on ensuring equity of access to primary care services in vulnerable Aboriginal communities and planning for the event of transmission. Erica reflects, “all activity from a health perspective has been tremendously collaborative and collegiate in WA, with staff and agencies working together and with the sentiment ‘we are all in this together’.” Rebecca Coetzee (2012) — protecting our future Rebecca discovered her fascination for genetics during Year 11 Human Biology at Penrhos. She obtained an
undergraduate degree in Genetics and Human Biology from UWA and worked at Clinipath Pathology before securing her current role at Linear Clinical Research, a Perth-based clinical research operation trialling a new vaccine for Coronavirus.
As Clinical Resources Coordinator at Linear, Rebecca works with doctors, nurses, health care workers and the wider organisation to coordinate medical trials. Linear recently announced plans to trial a new vaccine for Coronavirus; while there are more than 60 COVID-19 vaccines in development around the world, only a few are entering early clinical trials in human volunteers. In addition to the Coronavirus vaccine, the team are trialling many new treatments for various health issues including Huntington’s Disease, Angelman Syndrome, gout and various addictions. Following a six-month mission trip to Vanuatu, which Rebecca spent working in hospitals, prisons and schools, learning the true value of a good public health system, she has also started working on her Master of Public Health through Deakin University.
We take off our hats to these inspiring women and others like them. Please write in to let us know of other Penrhos alumni we can celebrate and be proud of – we’d love to share their stories too.
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Claim your space at the top of the world This lovely initiative was first conceived by Amanda Yaksich, former President of our Alumni Committee. Her vision is to create an ‘Alumni Lookout’ on the roof-top of the new Science Innovation Centre, and for the archetypal Penrhos alumna to watch over and inspire our current students as they gaze out towards their future horizons.
250 spots only • $300 one-off membership or $30 per month for 10 months • Permanent recognition for the lifetime of the building • Fully tax-deductible
We are seeking 250 alumni to bring Amanda’s beautiful idea to life. 250 x $300 contributions will achieve the $75,000 required to secure naming rights for the roof-deck of the new Science Innovation Centre for the lifetime of the building, including a plaque featuring individual donor names and years of graduation. Involvement is strictly limited to 250 places. On completion of the new Science Innovation Centre, an exclusive soiree for ‘Collective’ members will be hosted on site, as part of plans for the unveiling of the new building. Please note that each individual $300 contribution is fully tax-deductible. Donors will be issued a full receipt prior to the EOFY 2021. For more information please contact Tanya Brooks, Fundraising Coordinator at 08 9368 9711 or email giving@penrhos.wa.edu.au.
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SYDNEY
CANBERRA BATEMANS BAY
KIAH
Kirstin Wright (2000) NSW bushfire survivor The 2019 fire season started in September. By November it was deadly and, come Christmas, the world watched on in horror as New South Wales, ACT and Victoria declared a state of emergency. In total, 34 lives were lost, 18 million hectares burnt and 9,000+ buildings were destroyed. In January 2020, alum Kirstin Wright (2000), her partner Simon Gallagher and six-month-old son Billy tragically lost their Kiah home in the NSW bushfires. In the days before Christmas, Kirstin Wright was settling into her new rural property in Kiah, Bega Valley, approximately 385kms south of Sydney or half-way between Sydney and Melbourne. Kirstin and her partner Simon were aware that parts of the state were already battling bushfires. By Christmas Day, serious warnings about the extreme heat and dangerous conditions reached their local area. Here’s how the story unfolded. When were you evacuated? The first evacuation message we received on 29 December was because the winds were picking up, and the temperatures were set to hit 40 degrees. The fires in Mallacoota (VIC) were really bad, but I still thought, “It’s fine, we’re 70 kilometres from Mallacoota, the warnings are precautionary measures”. Simon went to the local petrol station on 30 December and saw carloads of people who’d fled Victoria and
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MELBOURNE
MALLACOOTA
crossed the state boarder into New South Wales. They were terrified and told Simon to “Pack your things and go!” It is all forest between Kiah and Mallacoota. Burning embers were forecast by Fire Services to potentially hit our town; in spite of the distance, the fires tore straight through containment lines and pushed through to NSW in a matter of days. When did it become a matter of urgency for you? I woke up on 1 January and the sky was red outside; that was the moment panic set in. The smoke made it hard to breath and the air quality dropped to hazardous levels. I called my friend Beth who immediately told me to “Pack what you need for the next six months and leave”. That’s when it really hit me. I realised we could lose everything. We had only just settled into our new home; we’d recently installed air con, hung paintings and had our first family Christmas. The prospect of walking away was hard to bear. Fleeing to Sydney without Simon By this time, there were fires all around us. Only three hours away, fires from the north were coming down from Batemans Bay and more were moving up from the south. The winds kept changing and so did the road closures. To get to safety wasn’t as simple as just jumping in your car and driving there — thousands of people were trapped, traffic was queued for miles and you could feel the panic. On 2 January, we were told the roads had opened to Sydney, so I packed up everything I could fit
“ I don’t know what’s worse — staying to fight for your home and going through a near death experience, or leaving and losing everything. At the end of the day, a house is not worth a life.”
into the car and left with my son Billy. The sky was red and eerie — as I drove away from the house, I accepted that I wasn’t coming back. The most traumatic thing for me was that Simon wasn’t with us — I could accept the house was gone, but that was nothing compared to the fear of losing Simon. Fight or flight? Simon had initially decided he would defend the property, our three cows and 30 sheep, along with his friend — but that changed the night the fire tore through Kiah. After hours of watering down the roof, cleaning the gutters and clearing any dry vegetation near the house so flying embers wouldn’t catch fire, Simon left the house. He packed what he could into his van (including the dog) and got out of there at 4pm. I’m so glad he did because, the way our house was positioned, he wouldn’t have stood a chance. At 2am I called my neighbour, who had evacuated to the nearby town of Eden with her daughter and granddaughter. There was lots of news footage from there; people were shown huddled on the wharf and on tugboats, watching the inferno burning over the horizon. My neighbour’s husband and son had stayed to defend their property which was only 200 metres from ours. They’d lived there for 40 years and had experienced bushfires before, so they had much more of an understanding of what to do; amazingly, they succeeded and saved their home.
Directing Simon out of danger Once I was safe with family in Sydney, I was still trying to help get Simon out of the impact zone. Even when I finally managed to book a flight online, it was only to realise Merimbula airport was closed. Because Simon had the dog, no one would let him into the refuge shelters. He hadn’t slept for four days; he was exhausted and had no charge left on his phone. I begged a motel owner to let Simon in “Please, he has our dog, but he just needs somewhere to stay, no one will take him” — thankfully, we struck lucky and the Merimbula motel took pity on us and let Simon in. I was on the NSW live traffic website frantically looking for open roads. Simon had just booked into the motel, showered, charged his phone and collapsed for some much-needed rest, when I saw a road had re-opened; it travelled west through Bega and onto the Snowy Mountain Highway. Simon almost didn’t want to believe me when I told him to get in his car again. He argued, “every other map says that road is closed. I don’t believe that road is open.” I said, “you’ve got to trust me. I promise you it’s open”. He got into the car and started driving, I was on the phone the whole time. He was so affected by what he had experienced over the last four days, he became distraught and started questioning the way he was going, “this isn’t the right way, you’re driving me into the fire, what are you doing?” I was crying as I urged
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him on; he was so sleep-deprived and emotional, but I had to reassure him “trust me, I promise you it’s open”. It was pitch black at 3pm and large embers were flying over his car as he travelled across hectares of property with homes burnt to the ground. I’ll never forget that conversation; he feared for his life, but he kept driving and was finally reassured to see a row of cars lined up with the same hopeful exit plan. By midnight, he had arrived safely in Canberra. Looking back That was the worst 48 hours of our lives. I remain disturbed by the experience; not knowing what was going on, fearing for Simon’s life, having to escape our home with our six-month-old baby. All our homewares are replaceable, but the more sentimental items that you collect over a lifetime are lost for ever. My Penrhos school uniform, that we cut up for our last day of school, is something I’d held onto always — overnight, it was gone. Sense of community The thing that has touched me most is the amount of support we received from our friends and the community. We had just moved to Kiah, so we only knew a few people. Going through this kind of experience really brings people together. We’ve been inundated with love and kindness. My girlfriends organised a fundraiser, family took us in to live with them, friends donated money or household items like sheets and towels, things you don’t think about when you’re fleeing for your life.
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What do you want to see changed? I feel the government has some things to answer for. In New South Wales, funding was cut so the fire crews were ill-prepared to deal with such extreme devastation. I believe controlled burning should be mandatory; we just can’t have communities built around forests and expect to live through bushfire seasons without controlled burning. For thousands of years, the Aboriginal people of Australia have been following cultural practices including the use of fire to care for their Country. We should look to them as our example. Essentially, cultural burning involves applying fire to the bush in a methodical approach — the fire acts like water, trickling across terrain. It moves slowly and burns in a circular pattern away from single ignition points. Flame height is maintained at ground level and native shrubs and trees are unaffected by the relatively low heat of such fire, so trees that provide shade, fruit, flowers, and seeds are generally preserved. Moving forward We’re designing the rebuild of our home so that it is more fireproof. Our property is on 20 acres and it took 23 truckloads of waste to clean up; the cost was over $100,000, and we are so grateful the government funded it. We are trying to stay positive. We can’t wallow in our situation because we are a young family. Thankfully, we have our beautiful little boy to keep us busy with his rolling, crawling, and now walking. We’ve just had to keep going and Billy has helped us focus on all the things we have to be grateful for, in our little family, as we look to rebuild.
VALE
Emily Choy
4.3.1998 – 23.3.2020 by Peter Chandler Maths Mentor Coordinator Emily attended Penrhos from Year 5. She was a kindhearted, caring and treasured member of the Class of 2015. As a talented pianist and violinist, Emily won a music scholarship to the College. She was part of all things musical at Penrhos, including Symphony and String Orchestras and the various choirs. Emily loved school and was an enthusiastic learner, she never lacked motivation and always wanted to find out more. Emily’s real passion at school was for Maths. She loved being part of the Maths Mentor Program, and rarely missed an after-school session in four years. As a teacher, I can say that Emily was an example of that special kind of student you love to have in your class. Even after the most boring lesson, she would be at my desk with a big smile to say how much she enjoyed it. If she didn’t understand a topic, she would ask questions and not give up until she had mastered the concept. In Year 10, Emily set her sights on pursuing a career as an actuary. In the same year, she was diagnosed as having a neurodegenerative disorder which had a major effect on her sight, hearing, fine motor skills and brain function. Still, she set goals and worked very hard to achieve what was required despite the challenges of living with her condition. Emily’s hard work and unwavering perseverance earned her a place studying Commerce and Science at Curtin University, and she narrowly missed getting into Actuarial Science at the end of her first semester. Emily passed with distinctions and high distinctions at the end of the year; an achievement which was of no surprise to those who witnessed the remarkable willpower and determination Emily displayed each day, and throughout her life.
Emily loved, and was loved by a special group of friends who admired her kind soul and big heart. Lifelong friends Holly Broadbent (2015) and Alinda Lee (2015) remained regular visitors during Emily’s more difficult periods; the girls enjoyed special times together and trips to local cafés. Holly shares that, despite her health challenges, Emily was always more interested in what her friends were doing than she was in her own issues, and that she always retained her wonderful smile. Alinda recalls Emily taught her the importance of hard work and perseverance and remembers her as ‘one of a kind’. In memory of Emily’s courage and determination, a new award was presented at the 2019 MathsNight@Penrhos — the Emily Choy (2015) Award for Perseverance, with Lauretta Lee (2021) named as the first recipient. Our sincere condolences to Emily’s family, Terence and Suan, and brother Jeremy on the loss of Emily, a truly beautiful person and an inspiration to all who had the privilege to know her.
The Penrhos College community extends its deepest sympathy to the loved ones of alumni and friends who have passed away. We remember and celebrate the lives of those no longer with us at our Founders’ Day chapel service, in our College Book of Condolences and in our Alumni Memorial Garden. Whilst we make every effort to notify the community of the passing of our alumni with the consent of their families, we rely on your assistance in this by kindly informing us of any losses in your family and networks. In this respect, please contact us at alumni@penrhos.wa.edu.au. EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN
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Out and about Commencing her career in education as a Physical Education and Science teacher before moving into leadership roles, Jennifer Davies (Harman, 1974) is now Dean of the AIS Leadership Centre of the Association of Independent Schools of NSW. She has a PhD in Educational Leadership. Congratulations to Susannah Hanlon (Dean, 1976) who gained her PhD on ‘The influence of informal communication on learning in a political party’, pictured at the conferring held 2 December 2019. In her PhD acknowledgements page, Susannah recognised the support and encouragement of lifelong friend Lise Summers (1976). She also dedicated her viva to Lise, which took place just two days before her passing in August 2019.
Carolyn Brown (1979) has lived in London for the past 30 years, working as a specialist in Destination Marketing & PR to the international travel industry. Carolyn has worked in tourism for Australia, the Cayman Islands, luxury resorts and villas and presently is representing the Caribbean island of Anguilla for the UK and Nordic region. Jennie Kluck (Bird, 1984) graduated from UWA with a Bachelor of Economics with a double major in Japanese before moving to Sydney in 1988. Married with four children, Jennie has established a life story biography business, collecting life stories from older Australians. Jennie loves keeping in touch with a group of 1984 leavers who also live in Sydney. Suzanne Williams (1985) is based in London, working at the Natural History Museum as Head of Invertebrate Division.
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The Marketing & Development Office invites alumni to contribute to The Penrhosian magazine by emailing news items to alumni@penrhos.wa.edu.au. We publish alumni submissions in good faith, in the spirit of sharing and celebrating good news.
After 30 years as a swimming coach, Kareena Preston (1988) founded Kri:ei’tiviti, a small artisan business creating 100% toxin free soaps, lip balms, bath salts and bombs — available online at krieitiviti.com.au Pictured enjoying one of their regular catch-ups are Class of 1988 alumni Erica Davison (Looyen), Elizabeth Prendiville (Saleeba), Natalie Otobe (Williamson), Christina Gray, Terri-Ann Ioannou (Carter), Tamara Minchin (Kear) and Angela Gelavis (Boyatzis). Deanna Wilson (1993) spent a year overseas before commencing study in Geology at Curtin University. After five years as an exploration geologist, Deanna returned to Curtin to complete a Master in GIS and went on to gain a PhD in Spatial Science. Now a new mum, Deanna is enjoying work as a swim instructor before she returns to her career in Geology. Brooke Hamilton (McConnell, 1996) spent time in Panama as an exchange student before completing a degree in Education. Brooke teaches at Bridgetown Primary School with fellow alum Kelly Reeves (Hales, 1997) and Mel Waters (Moyes, 1998) and is a busy mum to Layla (15), Asha (7) and Jack (4). 1996 leaver Hulwina (‘Wina’) Abdul Rahman and her husband are passionate about protecting the environment and are the founders of SuciStraws — biodegradable and eco-friendly straws made from rice and tapioca.
Lauren Estrade (Hancock, 1999) completed a Bachelor and Master of Psychology at Curtin University and has worked as both a therapist and consultant in Australia and overseas. Lauren married husband Len in 2016 and the couple have two children — Louis (4) and Laeticia (2). Lauren now works as a professional speaker and coach. Ashleigh Humphrey (2001) obtained a degree in Veterinary Medicine from Murdoch University before moving to Adelaide, where she worked in small animal practice for 11 years. Ashleigh and husband Daniel are enjoying WA life, having recently made the move back to Perth with their two daughters, Eva and Elsie. Kate Morris (Watson, 2001) is living in Melbourne and balancing family life with her work as a Clinical Lead Speech Pathologist in healthcare. Kate and husband Garyth were delighted to welcome baby Huw to the family last year, named after his late Welsh grandfather. Samantha Squire (Lake, 2001) is currently working as a manager in Business Advisory Services at Findex. Samantha and husband Andrew have recently built a new home, which they share with their 19-month-old son, Charlie. Between work, travel and everyday life, Gina Olivieri (2003) found time to write her first novel, published last year. ‘Til Death is the story of a young woman diagnosed with a condition that could kill her at any moment and what it means to live every day as if it’s your last. It was partly inspired by the inscription on the Class of 2003 time capsule, which includes the line ‘live like heaven’s on earth’, and it is available online from Lulu.com and Fullers bookshop in Hobart.
After five years studying at Notre Dame University, Joanna van Kampen (Townsend, 2003) worked as a Physiotherapist in Mount Isa before commencing a FIFO role in the Pilbara. Joanna and husband Josh recently welcomed a beautiful baby boy to the family, Jordan Ross. Mariana Simeon (2005) is studying a Master of Art Business with Sotheby’s Institute, working as a contemporary art advisor and brand consultant after working with Dr Michaela Neumeister de Pury in Mayfair, London. Megan Hingst (Wheatley, 2005) lives in Philadelphia, USA and is a proud new mum to baby girl June, born November 2019. Currently under stay at home orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Megan and her husband are staying positive, enjoying the time they have been able to spend together as a new family of three. Congratulations to beautiful bride Chloerissa Eadie (2006) on her wedding to Phil Wyatt in January this year, in Eagle Bay. Chloerissa is pictured with her bridal party which includes 2006 alumni Verity Hodges (Wessels), Elizabeth Woollard and Marie Suckling. Jasmine Lin (Nguyen, 2008) worked as a dental nurse while studying Health Science at Curtin University. Jasmine and husband Isaac are the owners of the Bonsai Restaurant and Lounge in Northbridge — pictured with Dean of Pastoral Care Michelle Taylor (Felear, 1986) and husband Rob, Dean of Academic Administration, at their recent visit to the restaurant. Amy Miocevich (2008) is the founder of Lumos Marketing and has been helping small business owners with their marketing for the last six years. Amy recently published her first book, Very Good Marketing for Small Business
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— available at most online bookstores or in store at Dymocks in Subiaco. Genevieve Howe (2010) was working as a Human Rights case manager for the State Administrative Tribunal for a number of years before joining Hunter Communications in 2017 as a Public Relations Consultant, where she is currently an Account Manager. Briana Riches (2014) undertook health related studies at Curtin University before moving on to a Diploma of Events Management and a Certificate in Wedding Planning. Briana is now back at ECU, thoroughly enjoying her studies in Early Childhood Education. A keen globetrotter, Briana has visited eight countries since graduation, and counts seeing snow for the first time as a highlight of her travels. After graduation, Abbey Byfield (2015) spent a year working and travelling in Europe before undertaking a Bachelor of Communications from Bond University. Abbey recently moved to California and is working as a Sales and Growth Specialist for Cisco Systems. She spends her weekends exploring the hinterland and hiking trails, and attempting to surf at Santa Cruz. Grace Roden (2015) is in her final year studying Primary Education at the University of Notre Dame, while also working in the Prospective Student Office. In 2018, Grace spent four months studying in Portland, Oregon, and travelling around America. Amelia Barton (2017) recently completed her degree in Agricultural Business from Charles Sturt University; awarded Dux of 2019, she was recipient of the CBH Group Prize in Agricultural Marketing. Amelia plans to continue her studies, undertaking honours and a PhD. Maya Curtis (2019) is studying Acting at WAAPA and writing music on the side, honing her craft and artistry to prepare herself for the industry. 16
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Save the date Alumni reunions and events are a fantastic opportunity to rekindle old friendships, take a walk down memory lane and catch up with your Penrhos peers. Following the easing of restrictions in WA we are very pleased to be able to hold the following events in 2020. Alumni Production Soiree (prior to the opening night show of this year’s College production — My Fair Lady) Thursday, 30 July at Penrhos College Founders Day (tribute to Jennifer Robertson) Tuesday, 1 September at the Penrhos College Chapel Class of 1970 — 50 Year Reunion Friday, 23 October at Brew House, Elizabeth Quay Class of 2010 — 10 Year Reunion Friday, 30 October at Penrhos College Class of 2000 — 20 Year Reunion Friday, 30 October at Penrhos College Class of 1990 — 30 Year Reunion Friday, 6 November at Penrhos College Class of 1980 — 40 Year Reunion Friday, 6 November at Penrhos College Please send reunion enquiries to Rowan Courts at alumni@penrhos.wa.edu.au or (08) 9368 9508.
Mentoring opportunity We are seeking to establish a database of alumni who may be able to offer the opportunity of work experience for current students. As part of their Career Education Program, Penrhos College Year 10s take on a Work Experience Placement during the last week of the school year, Monday 30 November – Thursday 3 December 2020. We are looking for professionals from a diverse range of professions and industries to mentor students through a typical working week. If you would be interested in helping these Year 10s to stretch their learning experience into the workplace, we would love to hear from you. Please email Christina Re, Career Advisor at rec@ penrhos.wa.edu.au with any expressions of interest.
Photo gallery: alumni events
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2018 Leavers Reunion International Women’s Day Alumni Committee farewell dinner with Meg Melville Shakers and Stirrers
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We invite you to connect with us and each other via our dedicated Penrhos alumni social media channels on LinkedIn and the Penrhos College Alumni Facebook page.
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