Black Watch Ed 1 2022 by Presbyterian Ladies' College

PRESBYTERIAN LADIES’ COLLEGE PRESBYTERIAN LADIES’ COLLEGE A COLLEGE OF THE UNITING CHURCH OF AUSTRALIA A COLLEGE OF THE UNITING CHURCH OF AUSTRALIA

Black Watch Black Watch 2022 2022 Edition Edition One One

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Message from the Chair of Council Lucy’s Star is on the Rise PLC Parents Chaplain’s Address Year 9 Service Leadership Programme Students Brave the Shave All-rounder Ashley Lily Poised for International Success Gaining Perspective Full Circle Moment for Maclivers Electrotechnology Sparks Interest for Emma PLC Students Achieve Success in All Three Pathways A New Tradition for Academic Recognition Junior School Refurb Humility at the Heart of Swimming Success On Your Marks, Get Set Go, Colombia Expert Advice Zoe Springs Her Way to Silver PLC Wins Footy Flag Inspiring Women Mothers’ Day Breakfast Year 12 Ball Speech Night 2021 Talent on Show for Ukraine Year 12 Motto PLC Remembers War Heroes Native Haven Reunions Old Collegians’ Association Tartan News From the Archives Foundation Report Obituaries

Cover Image The photo used on our cover for Edition One of 2022 celebrates teacher, Lucy Loxton, winning the Educator Rising Star Award. L-R: Poppy Thompson (Year 8), Lucy Loxton and Matilda Cook (Year 8).

2022 Inspiring Women Breakfast, Mothers’ Day 2022 event on campus.

Message from the Principal I am often told that one of the many reasons families choose PLC is our sense of community. We are fortunate to have each and every student, teaching and operations staff member, parent, Old Collegian and the wider community form part of this family that is committed to ensuring your child is personally successful, not only now but in the future. We enjoy coming together to foster this sense of family and community, to celebrate it and I truly believe that this one of the many things that makes PLC so special. Although COVID-19 saw us having less of an opportunity to come together in person, recently I have had the pleasure of engaging in meaningful meetings with parents in the Junior School, holding events on campus for the first time in over 12 weeks, and talking face to face with our community members – a luxury I will never take for granted again. I have never been more grateful for being part of the PLC community as I have in recent weeks as we move toward the new normal of a postpandemic future. A future that now

sees us being able to come together as a community to celebrate our school, student achievements, and to simply enjoy each other’s company. A mere six months after I was comissioned as Principal of PLC Perth, the impacts of COVID-19 resulted in a shift in priorities. Our focus of ensuring educational continuity for our students meant that a great deal of time had to be dedicated to the operational aspects. That is not to say that we haven’t enjoyed some incredible and innovative developments. In the past six months alone, we have had a number of staff receive recognition for the work they do, such as our front cover story on Ms Lucy Loxton receiving The Educator Rising Star Award. Our Junior School has had a refurbishment (see

page 17), we have moved into the next phase of our Master Plan, and we look forward to the opening of our stateof-the-art Music Centre in Term 3. These priorities are all aligned to the new PLC Strategic Plan which will be communicated to parents. We have also recently seen the work behind the Year 9 Service Leadership Programme realised where students spent a full day developing selfleadership skills (more on this on page 7). As we look forward to the future, we are setting some far-reaching goals aimed at preparing your children to be personally successful in life after school. I look forward to working with all community members as we embark upon the next phase of development for PLC.

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Message from the Chair of Council Since the start of the 2022 school year, the pandemic has continued to impact our daily lives and has placed significant demands on our staff and students.

derives the majority of its operating revenue from tuition and boarding fees and incurs the majority of its operating expenses on staff salaries.

I would like to recognise the enormous commitment, resilience and professional manner in which our staff have managed, and continue to manage, the far-reaching disruptions of the pandemic and strive to educate and inspire our students. I would particularly like to recognise the continued leadership, incredible dedication, and time commitment of our Principal, Ms Cate Begbie, and the Senior Leadership Team.

The first chart provides a breakdown of the School’s income sources in 2021, with tuition and boarding fees contributing 83.7%, Government funding 14.5% and other revenue 1.8% of total income. The second chart provides a breakdown of where the income is spent, with 76.4% of expenditure directly linked to staffing costs, a further 5.5% on learning resources, 11.4% on facilities (including non-staff boarding costs) and combined 6.7% on administration and ILT costs.

We have welcomed two new members to the Council in 2022 – Old Collegian, Annabelle Henderson (2010) and Matthew Weaver, who is a current

parent and member of The Finance and Audit Committee. In addition to their connections to the PLC community, Annabelle and Matthew will bring significant strategic and financial expertise to Council. To all members of Council and the various committees across the School, I thank you for your continued engagement and service to the PLC community. It is an honour and privilege to work amongst you. With the completion of our 2021 audit, I have pleasure in reporting that PLC continues to maintain a sound financial position through continued prudent financial management. The School

2021 Expenditure

2021 Income

5.5%

1.8% 6% 8.5%

4.3%

2.4% Staffing

Other

11.4%

State Funding

Administration

Tuition & Boarding Fees

83.7%

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Facilities ILT

Commonwealth Funding

Claire Poll Chair of Council

76.4%

Learning Resources

Lucy’s Star is on the Rise The Educator magazine has named English Teacher, Ms Lucy Loxton, as one of their 2022 Rising Stars of the Year for her improvements to the General English course and to the boarding induction programme ‘About Being Connected@PLC’ (ABC@PLC). More than 100 nominations are received per year for this coveted award, with only a handful named as winners. Those chosen as Rising Stars are judged on how they, as individuals, have made meaningful and tangible differences to teaching and learning outcomes in their schools. Ms Loxton was nominated by Head of Senior School, Ms Rebecca Watts for the prestigious award. “Ms Loxton is an integral member of PLC who has engaged with all curriculum areas to ensure boarders and General pathway students are supported and connected throughout the School,” Ms Watts said.

As co-ordinator of the ABC@PLC programme for new boarders, Ms Loxton changed existing lesson plans to give the students a head start for Year 7, identifying their strengths and any weaknesses and working on these to prepare the students for their upcoming courses. She enhanced the ‘getting to know you’ aspect of the existing programme by including Year 12 leaders to run activities and housed it within the Boarding House to enable new boarders to become familiar with their new home away from home and accessible technology so students could keep in touch with their new boarding mates. “Over the course of this programme, we have seen the students’ confidence and interactions with one another positively grow beyond expectations. They come to school having already built connections with their peers and a staff member, and fewer concerns about leaving home,” said Ms Loxton.

Improvements to the General English course were also made, resulting in increased student engagement with numbers growing from one student in 2019 to two classes in 2022, and growing confidence within the students’ academic abilities. Ms Loxton made the General English units more relevant to the students by focussing on things they would find interesting and popular culture, reinventing the course to be more engaging, accessible and challenging. Students enjoy the subject matter such as researching websites to plan travel and analysing podcasts. Ms Loxton’s passion to engage and build confidence through innovation and relevance has resulted in a well-deserved national accolade, at the beginning of what is looking to be a bright career for this young educator at PLC.

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PLC PARENTS This year, Alan Ng has stepped into the role of Chair of PLC Parents. PLC Parents seeks to build a vibrant and supportive PLC community by connecting parents and guardians through social events, volunteering opportunities, and funding initiatives. They collaborate with the Principal, Ms Cate Begbie, and PLC staff to achieve our common goals: helping create a safe and supportive environment and upholding the School’s values. Alan was passed the baton from Michelle Barrett who served as Chair for the past three years. He and his wife Cécile worked in Europe and Asia before returning to Perth in 2016 and have three daughters at PLC across both the Junior and Senior Schools. Professionally, Alan is an experienced business investor, manager, and advisor with particular interests in sustainable and regenerative businesses. He is currently a senior advisor for Xynteo, an international consultancy delivering the agenda of CEOs on transformation, leadership, innovation, and sustainability strategy. Alan grew up in Perth, graduated from UWA with degrees in Science and Engineering, and completed his postgraduate studies at London Business School. He has served as a director of several start-ups, social enterprises, and voluntary organisations, and as an advisor to senior executives across a range of sectors. He has led, moderated, and featured as a panelist on topics around collaborative innovation, the future of work, and education. Alan is optimistic about the power of individuals and enterprises to create a just, inclusive future in harmony with our planet. He is frequently impressed by the quality of work and the care and communication skills displayed by PLC students. Their strong values and

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leadership qualities will serve them and our society well into the future. Alan, what is your vision for PLC Parents? One of our biggest decisions as parents is where we choose to send our children for their education; our biggest responsibility is to help them thrive and grow. We want all our PLC parents to have a really positive experience of the School, to feel they are contributing to a supportive community, and in turn to feel confident that our students are part of a safe and nurturing learning environment. My wife and I have made great friends through the parents network and, importantly, feel grateful for a community of support we’ve relied on as we navigate the challenges of parenthood and school life. I’d like the work of PLC Parents to extend that positive experience to all our parents and guardians, so that they equally feel that sense of pride and belonging to the PLC community as our students do. To do this, we are building on the collective efforts of many generations of parents and volunteers, continuing some of the fine traditions such as Open Garden Day and other beloved events. Our executive team this year is particularly focussed on better communication, growth and inclusion in all that we do. What is something that most people may not know about you? I once had the great privilege of co-producing a National Geographic

television documentary series, travelling on motorbikes through Asia and Australia to film the work of grassroots charities and social enterprises throughout the region. It was certainly one of my most exhilarating life experiences! Why did you choose PLC and what is it that you love about PLC? Returning to Perth after a long period of living abroad, we were drawn to the global perspective, inquirybased learning and the International Baccalaureate foundations on which education at PLC is built. We also were attracted by the reputation of PLC and the idea that our daughters would be joining a community for life - through their school years and beyond with the Old Collegians’ Association. We continue to love those elements of PLC and now feel a sense of belonging to the wider PLC community.

CHAPLAIN’S ADDRESS

Sowing Seeds for the Future Wherever we have come from there is always some object or symbol from our childhood or early adult life that stays with us for the rest of our lives, reminding us of the journey to where we are now. For me, the Nil Manel or blue water lily, declared the national flower of Sri Lanka in 1986, is such a symbol of formative years in my homeland. However, this lily is very difficult to cultivate, especially in Perth’s dry climate. So, imagine the excitement recently at my home when five years after the initial planting, it finally bloomed in all its glory. I also have a friend who loves planting trees in his large garden, but at 75 he is well aware that it will be his grandchildren who will see the trees fully matured, but he plants them anyway, knowing inwardly he will never witness the fruits of his labour. Looking back at the century-long history of PLC, our Scottish founders and benefactors had a vision, deeply entrenched in the Reformed or Presbyterian tradition. It was the fundamental importance of education. It had proved to be the passport to a better future for those who had left their homeland, who have subsequently left their mark in every field of human endeavour throughout the world. Like so many of the teachers we honour in these pages, who have given their professional lives to imparting wisdom and knowledge, they too may not live long enough to see the fruits of their labour fully revealed in a new generation of young women making their mark in the world. All that is happening is seeds are being sown, nurtured and watered, but the end result will be beyond our sight. Does this stop us from what we are doing? Do we tire of constantly encouraging those who come after us? I think not, for the work always continues, as do the works of nature, weaving their special magic that amazes and inspires. Wrestling with members of the early Corinthian church who thought their contribution superior to others around then, the Apostle Paul quite forcefully wrote: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So, neither the one who plants, nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.” (I Corinthians 6-7) Let us give thanks for the glories that daily surround us. May we all continue to remain faithful in our endeavours, in whatever field that may be. Rev Nalin Perera Chaplain

Young people. Small steps. Real changes. As part of PLC’s commitment to being a school with a social conscience, the Year 9 Service Leadership Programme has evolved in 2022 to partner with Swinburne University Aristotle Emotional Intelligence Programme and several for-purpose organisations to apply theoretical knowledge learnt in the classroom with real-world opportunities to engage in meaningful projects across the community. To launch the action component of the programme, the year group spent the first day of Term 2 in a series of teambuilding and self-leadership exercises such as building bikes for Ronald McDonald House, trust exercises, developing agreed team behaviours, and the introduction of the projects with their teams. Each student is a custodian in one of nine service portfolios that will be handed over at the end of the year to the incoming Year 9 cohort in 2023, with the aim to build long-term partnerships with the for-purpose agencies. The portfolios range from homelessness, seniors, mental health, environmental, social justice, safe spaces, disability, children, and education. Community Partners include St Patrick’s Community Support Centre, Blue Tree Project, Rocky Bay, Foster Care Association of WA, and Teach Learn Grow.

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Students Brave the Shave At the end of Term 1, 56 brave Senior School students took part in the Word’s Greatest Shave by cutting or shaving their hair. This year's campaign has raised nearly $39,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation – smashing the $30,000 target. To adhere to COVID-safe guidelines, the usual event on the Quad with Scotch College was replaced with a remote version wherein students from Years 7 to 11 were able to cut their hair from home and send their hair in zip lock bags to the School. Students in Year 12 had a special event outside the Lighthouse where they were able to come together to cut or shave their hair. Among the many honourable participants, Year 12 students Neave Brookes and Olive Erickson raised a sum of over $4,500 by shaving their heads entirely. Lauren Ryding (Year 12) also raised a whopping $3,500 and shaved her hair at home.

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Since 2016, PLC, in conjunction with Scotch College, has been supporting the Leukaemia Foundation, and over the last six years, our community has raised in excess of $236,000. Thank you to our PLC community for the generosity shown this year and to all the students who participated in the World’s Greatest Shave to raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.

All-rounder Ashley Ashley Spencer (2021), who achieved PLC’s highest ATAR score of 99.55, is not new to the spotlight for outstanding achievements, but more frequently her notoriety has been for her sporting achievements – proving that a PLC education provides opportunities which allow our students to thrive across a wide range of disciplines. Ashley received the DJ Carmichael & Company WACE Dux of School award at Speech Night which she described as her academic highlight at PLC and that it was “really gratifying to be able to achieve results of that calibre”. In sport, Ashley has broken athletics records at both Inter-House and Inter-School Carnivals, was Cross Country Champion in 2021, won Silver in the U20 400m Hurdles at the 2021 Australian National Championships, Bronze in the U18 400m Hurdles at the 2019 Australian National Championships, and was the WA All Schools 400m Hurdles Champion in both 2020 and 2021. This impressive collection of accolades both academically and in athletics is only surpassed by her admirable personality as a down-to-earth, kind, resilient, humble, and brave young woman. Ashley not only credits her ability to achieve outstanding results in both of these disciplines to her resilience and dedication but to her teachers and the wider PLC community for supporting her throughout her time at school.

offer time outside of class for extra help. I especially enjoyed studying Physics under Ms Kaye. Not only was she prepared to patiently explain something for the eighth time, but she also catered for our stress levels with regular meditation and the occasional tea party,” reflected Ashley. Ashley’s mother, Mrs Justine Spencer, who is also a Science Teacher (Chemistry) at PLC, has also played an integral role in her education and her love of the sciences. “My mum’s been my teacher since I was born, but in an academic capacity, she taught me Science in Year 9 and Chemistry in Year 11. She started the first lesson with an activity asking what we knew and wanted to know. I asked what was for dinner,” Ashley joked. “PLC also enabled me to enjoy and explore sports such as volleyball and water polo as well as other areas such as music. I played cello up until Year 10 and oboe in Year 7. I was able to compete in the da Vinci Decathlon and experience the value of service learning through a life-changing Cambodia Service Tour.”

Top: Ashley at the 2021 IGSSA Athletics Carnival. Lower: Ashley receiving the award for WACE Dux of School.

“All my teachers played a part in my success and not just those from Years 11 and 12. They were all prepared to

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Lily Poised for International Success For recent International Baccalaureate Diploma graduate, Lily Macliver, the dream of attending a university in Europe was the driving force behind choosing a PLC education and the International Baccalaureate pathway.

Lily’s impressive IB score of 44 (ATAR equivalent of 99.8) was a direct correlation to her incredible drive and ambition to achieve highly in everything she sets her mind to. From her dedication to learning the French language, her standing ovation-worthy performances in the Performing Arts, to the way she nurtured her close relationships with her fellow IB students – Lily does nothing by halves and her successful year in 2021 has set her up for international success. Lily was drawn to the IB for three main reasons; first of all, she wanted to study overseas and the IB’s status as an internationally accredited course was her ticket to doing this directly out of high school. Secondly, she was drawn to the programme by the way in which it prepares students for university. “The IB teaches you skills and ways of learning that will set you up to

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do well. You learn how to write university style essays, reference correctly, conduct independent research and develop effective study and time-management skills, all of which are invaluable,” Lily said. “Thirdly, the style of learning really appealed to me. I had a curiosity for learning and so the focus on one’s ability to understand knowledge and how theories are applied rather than memorise facts and theories fascinated me. I was also really intrigued by the critical thinking aspect of the learning style, where students are taught to consider different perspectives and think outside the box,” Lily said. Lily has achieved her goal and has been accepted into ESCP Business School where she will spend each year of her Bachelor in Management (BSc) course in London, Paris, and Berlin respectively. “The course has a large focus on languages, allowing you to pick up an additional two languages

at a high level. I’m excited for this amazing opportunity and to meet people around the world!” Lily said. While her exceptional achievements were undeniably a testament to her character and tenacity, Lily reflected that she was never alone on this journey. “I think I can speak for the rest of my IB cohort when I say that our teachers were our lifelines, especially Ms Garbenis and Mrs Jones. They supported us both academically and emotionally and helped us through any challenges we faced in Years 11 and 12.” “We also had the opportunity to form some amazing friendships with our teachers which I will cherish forever. One teacher in particular, Madame Saunders, was incredibly supportive throughout my Extended Essay journey and has been a major help with applying to universities in France. I am so grateful for all the support from these people,” Lily said.

Gaining Perspective

Two Class of 2021 Visual Art students have their art exhibited in the renowned Pulse Perspectives exhibition for 2022 at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. Gabby Smith (2021) for her piece ‘Herbarium Heritage’ (pictured right) and Pippa Ford (2021) for her piece titled ‘ZEITGEISTOFGLOBALCHAOSANDVERBIAGE’ (pictured above).

Charlotte Ferguson (2021) (pictured above) was chosen to perform in the Performing Arts Perspectives. This annual event showcases a selection of the highest standard of Year 12 student performance in dance, drama and music. The highest scoring students in the state are invited to audition and from these, exceptional performers are chosen by a panel made up of representatives from the relevant professional arts area and education sector. PLC had three students invited to audition.

Full Circle Moment for Maclivers At the end of Term 4 last year, Year 1 Teacher Miss Bella Macliver (2012) invited her grandmother, Mrs Ann Macliver (Bird, Head Prefect 1952), back to PLC. Ann was the Kindergarten Teacher’s Aid and relief teacher at PLC some 30-odd years ago, in 1976 and from 1982 to 1988. Miss Macliver invited Ann to spend the morning with her and her class and we were able to capture some special moments during their Music lesson which transported Ann back to a very happy time.

“The morning was just so beautiful and I absolutely love PLC – especially the Junior School. It has a very special place in my heart,” Ann said. “It was lovely observing my granddaughter, Bella, in her workplace. She is a brilliant teacher and I am so proud of her.” The students equally loved having the special visitor for the morning and the whole experience speaks volumes as to the sense of community PLC is fortunate enough to foster.

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Electrotechnology Sparks Interest for Emma Emma Barrett’s (2021) decision to pursue a pathway in electrotechnology is testament to the way PLC encourages students to be brave, encourages them to challenge the status quo, and equips them with skills not only for now, but for the future. Emma is now two weeks into her four-year electrical apprenticeship with Nilsen and has begun work on the new Skywalk at Optus Stadium. “I am extremely excited and grateful to be working at Nilsen. I am so privileged to be learning from some amazing electricians who are cautious and passionate about their work,” Emma said. Emma recently graduated from PLC having completed her Certificate II in Electrotechnology through the Vocational Education and Training pathway (VET) and was awarded the DJ Carmichael & Company Vocational Education and Training Dux award at the 2021 Speech Night. While Emma’s exceptional grades and her love of mathematics could have seen her achieving success in an ATAR pathway, she knew she didn’t want to go to university straight out of high school. Instead, she was brave enough to pursue a pathway that supported 12

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her hands-on style of learning and her passion for mathematics. She chose to pursue her field of interest regardless of it being a predominantly male-dominated industry. When Emma was in Year 10, her mother took her to a careers expo in Perth and it was there that she had the opportunity to speak to professionals from mathematics-heavy industries such as civil construction, surveying, and aviation. After speaking with building industry professionals, Emma walked away feeling that becoming an electrician might be for her. With the support of Mrs Fleay, Head of Careers and Pathways at PLC, Emma applied for a pre-apprenticeship with the College of Electrical Training. Emma attended both the College and her PLC classes and had to juggle the workload of both. “At the time, I was studying ATAR Mathematics Methods and Mathematics Specialist, ATAR Accounting and English General and had to catch up the classes I missed each week, but all my teachers were extremely supportive and helped me to balance my study load,” Emma said. Hailing from a farming background with strong female role models, entering a male-dominated industry and the challenges associated with that hadn’t been a consideration.

Being one of only four girls in the entire college, Emma quickly became aware when lecturers would comment how easy she would find it in the industry because she was a girl and she was singled out and put on a pedestal just because she was female and high achieving. “This made me very uncomfortable. I think they thought they were being supportive, but they were undermining a lot of hardworking male students. I want to achieve things because of my initiative and hard work, not just because I am a female in a maledominated industry,” Emma said. When asked about what advice she would like to offer younger students who might like to follow in her footsteps, Emma replied, “Don’t follow in my footsteps, make your own! I think it is important for students to try and look beyond just school and think about the type of person they would like to be and the life they would like to live. We are all still so young and will potentially have multiple careers ahead of us. I don’t think it’s good to put too much pressure on ourselves to make the right decision straight away. Who knows if being an electrician will be my ultimate career, but I am happy with the path I am taking currently and I know it will be the first step in the right direction for who I am.”

PLC Students Achieve Success in All Three Pathways At PLC, ensuring every girl achieves her personal best is our primary focus. We are incredibly proud of our 2021 cohort and we wish our graduates every success as they embark on their next journey. 107 students undertook WACE studies for the ATAR pathway and 19 students chose the Vocational Education and Training pathway. 23 students enrolled in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

COMBINED IB/WACE ATAR 90.4* / 89.95** State Median - 81.75

WACE Median ATAR 88.25 •

•

IB DIPLOMA

VET

Median Score – 38 ATAR equivalent 98.15* / 96.4**

The VET courses students completed included:

•

Certificate II Customer Engagement

•

Certificate II Electrotechnology

•

Certificate II Hospitality

•

Certificate II Music Industry

•

Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care

•

Certificate III Community Services

•

Certificate IV Business

•

Certificate IV Education Support

•

Certificate IV Preparation for Health and Nursing Studies

Based on ATAR conversion used by UWA which awards bonus points to IB Diploma students.

Based on TISC ATAR conversion.

•

• •

22.43 per cent of eligible students achieved an ATAR score or 95 or more. 43 per cent of eligible students achieved an ATAR score of 90 or more.

•

74 per cent of eligible students received an ATAR score over 80.

•

Two students achieved subject scores of 99 or higher.

•

100 per cent of IB students passed the IB Diploma at PLC. The world pass rate is 69.93 per cent. 56 per cent of IB students achieved an ATAR equivalent of 95.45 or higher. 74 per cent of IB students achieved an ATAR equivalent of 91.6 or higher. Four students achieved the maximum bonus points in the Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay. Only 10 percent of IB students in the world achieve this. Level 7s were achieved in 20 courses (13 Higher Level and 7 Standard Level subjects).

IB/ATAR AT A GLANCE

students scored an ATAR of 95 or higher**

students scored an ATAR of 99 or higher**

students scored an ATAR of 90 or higher**

WACE Subject Exhibitions

students scored an ATAR of 80 or higher**

WACE Subject Certificates

100

WACE Subject Awards Subject Exhibition Food Science and Technology Eva Jackson Materials Design and Technology Elizabeth Dyke

Subject Certificates of Excellence Chemistry Ashley Spencer Food Science and Technology Eva Jackson Zara Moffat Marine and Maritime Studies Lara Tovich Materials Design and Technology Elizabeth Dyke Mathematics Applications Eva Jackson Mathematics Methods Chenyue Zou Modern History Poppy Bell Anna van Heerden

Certificates of Distinction Jasmine Barrett Audrey Chegwidden Celeste Dunn Ginger Fogarty Anneliese Mellick Scarlett Murdoch Nichola Nash Edith Offer Tallulah Pestell Juliet Quinlivan Zhiyi Song Ashley Spencer Lara Tovich Anna van Heerden Not For Publication Jemma Woolf

Certificates of Merit Holly Batten Aimee Chan Asha Correia Sophie Day Joslyn Dowling Elizabeth Dyke Monet Edwards Sylvie Erickson Pippa Ford Ellie Fry Meg Goody Lola Hanna Dorjesem Hoong Eva Jackson Indigo James Matilda Lamb Katherine Mahony Elizabeth Marsh Not For Publication Dimity Metcalf Eloise Middlemas Cara Mooney Not For Publication Islay Reichstein Alexandra Slocombe Gabrielle Smith Caitlin Weir Eliza Zagar

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A New Tradition for Academic Recognition On the second day of the 2022 school year, PLC held an inaugural Academic Recognition Assembly to recognise the efforts of the Class of 2021 students who achieved outstanding results in WACE, IB, and VET. The assembly saw each of the high achieving students who were able to attend the assembly, receive a special gift of a bespoke Kailis pen from Principal, Cate Begbie. The assembly was followed by a special morning tea on the Cafeteria Deck for students, parents, and teachers. While we recognise the significance of these students’ outstanding achievements, we are immensely proud of each and every student from the Class of 2021 for achieving their personal best in the face of an understandably testing year.

Introducing Junior School Semester 1 Leaders

Isla Barker Head Prefect

Maisie Hatch Head Prefect

Kate O’Brien Service Leader

Sami Chee Arts Leader

Alli Kassner Arts Leader

Anika Wood Baird House

Ruby Clarke Carmichael House

Millie Skewes Carmichael House

Claudia Day Ferguson House

Alysha Gladwin-Grove Ferguson House

Harper Gobetti McNeil House

Mila van den Berg McNeil House

Alina McKellar Stewart House

Emma Wesseldine Stewart House

Sophia McManus Summers House

Nina Shephard Summers House

Charlotte Langford Service Leader

House Leaders

Madeleine Mahony Baird House

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Junior School End of Year Assembly 2021

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Junior School Refurb There is nothing like a beforeand-after renovation photo and over the school holidays, and the Junior School was the lucky recipient of a freshen up. The areas renovated were the Upper Level, Pre-Primary, Years 4, 5 and 6 classrooms and two sections of the Library. These areas received new carpets, vinyl and wall painting as well as new pinboards throughout. A locker area was also installed to provide the Year 6 cohort with some continuity ahead of the introduction of lockers when they transition to Senior School and green walls were also installed to create a fresh, new vibe.

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Humility at the Heart of Swimming Success To be the best you can be in a sport requires unwavering dedication and drive for excellence. This quest for sporting success often doesn’t go hand in hand with being humble. Those athletes who do possess the power of humility are often highly revered – think Ash Barty, Ian Thorpe, and Cathy Freeman. Our own Year 10 swimming sensation Inez Miller seems to be cut from the same cloth and her swimming career trajectory is on a missile-like rise. She’s delivering some incredible performances but doesn’t draw attention to her achievements. In fact, quite the opposite. After winning the 100m Freestyle and the 50m Backstroke at the IGSSA Swimming Carnival in March, the PLC community

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was amazed to learn she attended Olympic trials last year. Inez then went on to win six medals at the Australian Age Swimming Championships in Adelaide in April. She took home Gold in the girls 15U 400m Freestyle, Silver in the 800m Freestyle, Bronze in the 100m Backstroke, Gold in the 16u 4x50m Medley Relay, Bronze in the 4x50m State Relay, and Bronze in the 4x100m Medley Club Relay! But when asked about her swimming success, Inez is not forthcoming with her achievements. Instead, she shines the light on her teammates, credits her swim team and those who help her along the way. Her humility and gratitude makes her all the more endearing and inspiring. “I really enjoy the social aspect of swimming. The relays are something that I truly enjoy because the girls you swim with are always behind you and supporting you,” Inez said.

When asked what advice she would give to young swimmers, Inez said, “I think I would tell them to value the advice people give and to take it to heart.” “Rock up to training with the right intent and hold yourself accountable. If you did a bad swim or test, how you walk away from that is so important. Be able to walk away with the mindset of here’s what I did wrong, here’s how I fix it and don’t emotionally attach yourself to it.”

On Your Marks, Get Set,   Colombia! Only four Western Australians made the World Athletics U20 Championships team set to compete in Santiago de Cali, Colombia in August and two of those athletes are PLC girls! Annie Pfeiffer (Year 12) and Ashley Spencer (2021) will be jetting to Colombia following some sensational performances at the Australian Track and Field Championships at Sydney Olympic Park in March. Annie won Gold in the Women’s 4x400m Relay and Bronze in the Women’s U20 400m with a World Junior Qualifying time of 54.70 seconds. Ashley took home Silver in the U20 400m Hurdles with a World Junior Qualifying time of 60.36 seconds. At these championships, Sienna Hanikeri (Year 12) won Bronze in the U18 3,000m and 5th in the U18 2,000m Steeplechase. Libby Hutton (Year 12) came 6th in the U17 Shotput and 8th in the Discus.

Expert Advice The Physical Education department recently invited some extraordinary coaches to come and work with PLC students of all ages. Hockeyroos, Grace Stewart and Mariah Williams (pictured above), and netballers Josie Janz Dawson (2005) (former West Coast Fever) (pictured below), Jess Anstiss (Australian Diamond and West Coast Fever), and Emma Cosh (West Coast Fever) arrived on campus to whip our Hockey and Netball teams into shape in time for the season. Olympians Grace and Mariah really made a difference with their Hockey Skills sessions for Junior School Minkey and Year 7s and 8s. Their teaching style broke each skill down into easy things to remember and try on each attempt. The girls got a lot out of their sessions and improvement was seen right away. Netballer Josie couldn’t get enough of her old school as she visited four times to work on skills with Junior School and Year 7s and 8s. Josie was a very direct, kind and patient coach and the students were encouraged to really work as a team. Current West Coast Fever players, Jess and Emma, oversaw the Year 11 and 12 trials. Their expertise was greatly appreciated in the selection of the teams for PLC. plc.wa.edu.au

PLC Wins Footy Flag Zoe Springs Her Way to Silver Zoe Jagger (Year 12) is making quite the splash on the national diving stage after securing a Silver medal at the National Diving Competition over the Easter school holidays. After some impressive results at the 2022 State Age Diving Championships in March where she became Western Australia’s 1m and 3m State Age Springboard titleholder, she then wowed spectators at Nationals at the South Australian Aquatic and Leisure Centre in April. “When I found out I won the Silver medal both my friend and I just starting crying from happiness, it was such a surreal experience and it meant so much to me because it proved that all the late nights and stress weren’t for nothing.”

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With only taking up diving six years ago, Zoe has already achieved a plethora of accomplishments and hopes to inspire individuals to, quite literally, take the plunge and give it a go too. “I started diving at a somewhat late age. I began from the very bottom squad and, over time, worked my way up to the top age squad,” Zoe said. “I now coach kids in the very beginner squads that are sometimes only a year younger than me, so if you think that you’re too old to join a sport, you’re not! It’s never too late.” Zoe is driven to continue to qualify for the National Championships in future years, and eventually, start competing internationally and, one day, at the Olympics!

Following PLC’s success of the Years 7 to 10 IGSSA AFL Programme over the past three years, this year, IGSSA introduced a Years 11/12 division to the competition. Not only did PLC take out second place in this new division, but also were crowned the overall winning school. Congratulations to our Years 7/8 team who went undefeated and were awarded the first place pennant! Our Senior A for Years 11/12 and Junior A for Years 9/10 teams both took out second place, resulting in PLC winning overall champion school. This programme has been a fantastic opportunity for players, encouraging participation and developing skills in a fun, yet competitive environment.

Inspiring Women Breakfast Mothers’ Day 2022 It was wonderful to welcome our PLC mothers and mother figures back on campus on Friday 6 May for the Mothers and Other Inspiring Women Breakfast. In celebrating Mother’s Day, PLC students from each year group shared heartfelt messages of appreciation and why they love their mums. Attendees were able to capture the moment with a fun photobooth, lucky draw prizes of flowers were gifted, and a delicious banquet breakfast was enjoyed by all.

A Night of Fire and Ice Year 12 Ball 2022 Some fast-thinking action by PLC staff to bring the Year 12 Ball forward before WA’s hard borders were opened resulted in the students being able to enjoy their rite of passage Year 12 Ball at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on Friday 4 February. Students and their partners looked “icy cool” and “on fire” at the fire and ice themed extravaganza. PLC students were transported to a wonderland of fire and ice where performers on stilts, contortionists, ice sculptures and a DJ entertained the cohort and ensured it was a memorable experience.

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Speech Night 2021

Talent on Show for Ukraine On Wednesday 6 April, Edwina Mactier (Head Prefect) and Sophya Thomas (Deputy Head Prefect), organised a special Year 12 Talent Show that raised funds for Ukrainian refugees. The Year 12 students invited staff to attend… and some staff even put on an act. With each student ticket being a $10 donation to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), they were able to raise just under $2,000. This was a completely student-led initiative, and we are incredibly proud of all involved in the fundraiser.

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I Don’t Know About You, But We’re Feeling 22 When the 2022 Student Council was tasked with coming up with the Year 12 Motto they turned for inspiration to someone they feel speaks to the hearts and minds of young people - Taylor Swift! The song 22 by Taylor Swift features the lyrics that the Student Council used to create their motto: “I don’t know about you but we’re feeling 22” and Ruby Meara (Creative Arts Captain), designed the motto board.

After unveiling it at an assembly at the end of 2021, the Student Council hoped this motto would inspire students to have an optimistic outlook on the year ahead. “No matter the challenges, or if things don’t work out, we will still be “feeling 22”. Meaning that we’ll keep pushing forward and overcome any difficulties put in our path this year,” Deputy Head Prefect, Sophya Thomas, said. Sophya reflected that each year’s motto is important as it builds a more cohesive year group.

Year group photo with their signs in the OCA Year 12 Common Room and sent it to Taylor Swift in an effort to engage with the superstar. “So far, we have not heard back, but we are still hopeful,” Sophya said.

She and Edwina Mactier (Head Prefect), also co-ordinated a

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PLC Remembers War Heroes On Sunday 13 February, members of the Student Council, Saskia Boquest (Pipe Major), Lexie McMurtie (Drum Sergeant), Principal Ms Cate Begbie and other distinguished guests attended the Vyner Brooke Memorial in Bicton. This year’s event marked the 80th anniversary of the atrocities surrounding the sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke and the ensuing massacre of 21 nurses and one female civilian on Radji Beach, Bangka Island. Our Student Council opened the service by carrying the Australian flag and two members of our PLC Pipe Band laid a wreath at the foot of the memorial. PLC Old Collegian and soprano singer, Sara Bevan (Macliver 1985) (pictured right) sang a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. PLC is the trustee of the Vyner Brooke Memorial at Point Walter Reserve, Honour Avenue, Bicton and together with the Applecross RSL Sub-Branch, we were able to honour these extraordinary women. This is their story.

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The Vyner Brooke Atrocity Eighty years ago, on 16 February 1942, a particularly brutal event occurred; something we would never have known about, had one person not survived. After the war ended in 1945 that survivor, Sister Vivian Bullwinkel, told the world what had happened on Radji Beach that day: the callous execution of 21 Australian nurses and one female civilian. Newspapers dubbed it 'The Worst Atrocity of the War’, as they incredulously reported on the fate of the 65 nurses who were evacuated from Singapore aboard the SS Vyner Brooke on 12 February 1942. Most, for more than three years, had been listed as Missing or Presumed Dead. Finally, their families knew what happened to their daughters who had enlisted not to fight, but to nurse the sick and wounded. They heard how the Japanese had stalked the ship, ignored the Red Cross banners, and bombed

it in the Banka Strait as it tried to make its way to Australia with their daughters on board. As it rolled over and sank, the Japanese flew overhead and strafed the water with machine gun fire, killing many. Twelve of their daughters died then, by gunfire or drowning. They heard 31 floated to places where they were able to surrender and spent the next three and a half years as Prisoners of War, during which eight died from illness and starvation. And they heard how 22 made it to Banka Island where they gathered under a Red Cross banner and treated the injured. They listened as Vivian told them their daughters had tried to surrender to a Japanese patrol, but how that patrol ignored the Red Cross banner on the beach and marched the men in their party over the hill and slaughtered them. With latent horror they heard their daughters realised what was coming when they saw the patrol returning, wiping blood from their bayonets, and

that their daughters resolved, when ordered into the water, to bravely meet their fate without a sound. Then they heard their daughters walked together in that extraordinary silence - some holding hands, heads held high - as they died under a hail of machine gun fire. Their families' raging grief played out in the years afterwards, as their daughters’ names were inscribed on memorials and Honour Rolls all over the country, and their broken hearts poured funding into stained glass windows, nursing scholarships, nurses’ book collections, children’s playgrounds, gardens, parks, and the planting of trees. Of the 65 nurses on the Vyner Brooke, only 24 made it home. It was determined then, these nurses would never be forgotten. Lest We Forget.

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Native Haven Following a native insect and bird survey in the PLC grounds, Year 4 found a scarcity of these important creatures and decided to do something about it. The Year 4 Butterfly and Bee Garden Project evolved from their Unit of Inquiry ‘Sharing the Planet’ which builds on Global Goals agreed by world leaders to build a greener, fairer, and better world by 2030. After conducting their surveys, the students decided to take action and create a dedicated garden area in which native animals could thrive. Students conducted research to find out about the insects and birds they wanted to attract to the garden and created information posters. The class reached out to President of the

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Gould League, Mrs Mandy Bamford (Silbertstein 1979), to answer their questions. She provided valuable information about native insects and the plants that attract them. In spring, Mandy will bring Yellow Admiral Butterfly caterpillars for the class to study their life cycle before releasing them, to populate the garden. In true PYP transdisciplinary fashion, during Art with Mrs Garland, students designed insect and bird houses to further encourage animal life. Mr Allen also shared his knowledge and helped students design and create their insect hotels. The class indebted to PLC Groundskeeper, Mr Hermans, for helping us make this project a success. Year 4 hopes their action will result in a place to learn, observe, and wonder, for many years to come.

REUNIONS

10 Year Reunion (Class of 2011) The Class of 2011 met up after ten years in December 2021. Their 10 Year Reunion commenced with the traditional group photo in front the of the Heather Barr Memorial Chapel, followed by a tour of the campus. Miss Georgia Thomas (2011) found her name on the Honour Boards and the former boarders recreated their group photo on the steps at the Boarding House. They had a wonderful time!

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OLD COLLEGIANS’

ASSOCIATION

The focus and mission of the OCA is to foster a community for life. We achieve this by providing opportunities for Old Collegians to connect and network with each other. While many annual events like the International Womens’ Day Breakfast, the Easter Service and Old Collegians’ Luncheon and the Year 12 Career Networking Breakfast have not been able to go ahead or have been postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions, we look forward to welcoming Old Collegians to our events in the near future.

Welcome Afternoon Tea

Tartan Lawyers’ Breakfast

We are thrilled to see our Old Collegians return to PLC as parents and grandparents. In late January, we had the pleasure of welcoming 15 Old Collegian families and their daughters who have just started their PLC journey at our annual OCA Welcome Day Afternoon Tea.

Giving our Old Collegians opportunities to stay in contact and continue to learn from each other long after they have left school remains at the heart of what the OCA does. It was wonderful to see such a broad age range of 50 PLC and Scotch Old Collegians and current students attend our Tartan Lawyers’ Networking Breakfast on Thursday 17 February. Thanks to Barrister, Jenny Thornton (1977), and recently retired Federal Court Judge, the Hon Neil McKerracher

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QC (OSC, former Chair of Scotch College Council) who shared their valuable and insightful advice for a successful career in the Law. Thanks also to OSC President and lawyer, Mr Aaron McDonald, who generously hosted the event at Pragma Lawyers in Subiaco, and to Scotch College Alumni Manager, Mrs Nadia Sierekowski, for organising the joint event.

Annual Art Exhibition Moved from May to August Our OCA Art Exhibition will now be hosted at PLC from Friday 26 August to Sunday 28 August. This Exhibition exists thanks to the wonderful support of our sponsors, event supporters and many volunteers and we are sincerely grateful to those who are supporting this event. I would like to extend a special mention and thanks to our incredibly generous main sponsors this year including: •

Mrs Liz Towner (Clarke 1958) and current parent, Mrs Anne Towner through their family business, Flametree Wines,

•

Siobhan Way (1989) Siobhan Way Fine Jewellery,

•

Jody Fewster (Bond 1983) of Ray White Cottesloe,

•

Advans Exhibition Services.

Also a huge thank you to talented artist, Miss Samantha Sadik (de Sillery 2005) who has kindly allowed the OCA to use her fabulous artwork Not Another Abstract to promote this year’s Exhibition.

Old Collegians Win 16th Tennis Tournament Congratulations to our Old Collegians’ team for taking another victory at the annual Independent Girls Old Scholars’ Tennis Day. Avid tennis players from six schools traveled to Reabold Park Tennis Club for the round-robin event on Thursday 31 March. It was a great day of very tightly contested tennis and our Old Collegians were victorious in defeating the other schools to take the trophy, marking their 16th win in the 24-year history of the competition. Well done to the team members, Linda Arnold (1979) (pictured right), Jane Glass (1974), Pippen Parassis (1983), Denise Cramer (1975), Judy Kozak (1976), Kirstin Prendiville (1978), Annie Barblett (1972) and Cate McKenzie (1986). A special thank you to Winks Shephard (Sheedy 1988), Devon Cuneo (Nankirell 1965) and Cathy Kennedy (Viner 1978) for their involvement in the day.

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Class of 2022 Welcomed to the Year 12 OCA Common Room The OCA Committee surprised the incoming Year 12s with a morning tea to welcome them to the OCA Year 12 Common Room. Audrey Chegwidden (2021) created the incredible cake which was immensely enjoyed by all. The students are enjoying utilising this special space and the continuing bond it creates between the OCA and current students.

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Staying Connected PLC and the OCA provide many opportunities for Old Collegians to stayed connected with each other and with PLC at Career Networking Events, Guest Speaker Events, Reunions and other events like the upcoming OCA Art Exhibition so we warmly invite you to keep the OCA updated with your details. If you have changed your name, email or postal address, please send your updated details to oca@plc.wa.edu.au or via telephone on (08) 9424 6520. Warm regards, Jessamy Mahony President PLC Old Collegians’ Association

TARTAN

NEWS

Ruby Gherbaz (2014) Ruby Gherbaz (2014) has already enjoyed an illustrious dancing career including performing in the past two seasons of Channel 7’s Dancing with the Stars. She recently took pause to reflect on her time at PLC and how the School and her parents enabled her to pursue her passion. Ruby is currently performing in Burn the Floor, has numerous national dancing titles and in the past two years had her most challenging dancing gig yet – partnering with former Bachelor, Matty J and TV Weatherman, Sam Mac on Dancing with the Stars.

“I start with a beginner and have to teach them Ballroom basics and get them to a standard where they can perform a new dance each week that I’ve choreographed,” Ruby said. “Expectations are high, and time is short.” While her dancing has taken her to international stages, Ruby began her dancing career at the age of eight after her parents started dancing socially and her brother, Jessie, joined in and needed a partner. “I was an unlikely ballroom competitor. I was such a tom boy and [wore] boys’ clothes; I was probably bribed with McDonalds,” Ruby said. Although her brother didn’t continue with the sport, Ruby did, and by Year 8, Ruby and her dance partner were Junior Winners of the Dance Masters Margaret CheneySmith Memorial Cup and on their way to ballroom fame in Australia. The training and travel commitments were considerable and fitting it all around school was a challenge for both Ruby and her parents.

“Although PLC was a prestigious school and it was highly academic, my parents never pushed me in that direction because they knew what my passion was. They wanted me to succeed academically and not just drop out because of the career path that I wanted to choose, but they understood where I wanted to put my effort and the commitments towards dancing that I had. They helped me to find that balance and I’m really grateful to them for that,” Ruby said. “I also had a special relationship with my PLC Dance Teacher, Emily Rooke. She understood the way that I worked. I didn’t enjoy sitting down writing essays. She got that, and she worked with me, my strengths and helped me with my weaknesses at the same time.” In her final year at PLC, Ruby and her dance partner were crowned the Australian Youth Latin Champions which they then won for two years’ running. “I was pretty naughty at school, and I got a few detentions from Mrs D’Sylva. I didn’t think she liked me back then, but I’ve seen her copious amounts of times after school and now she loves me,” she said. Editor’s note: Mrs Philippa D’Sylva was excited to hear she was mentioned by Ruby and says she has ‘always loved Ruby’, regardless of her mischief.

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TARTAN

NEWS

my passion for regional economic development with my experience in business leadership,” Robyn said. She added that her strong involvement with the PLC community, stemming in part from her role as Senior Boarder in 1990, has made a large contribution to her success and should not go unrecognised. “Never underestimate the strength of your PLC network and friends. It has been an important – and fun – part of my career and life journey!” Robyn said. She plans to use this career opportunity as WARAS CEO to strengthen the future of agriculture across Western Australia.

Robyn Sermon (1990) The WA Royal Agricultural Society (WARAS) has appointed Robyn Sermon as its first female Chief Executive Officer. This historic appointment will see her become the first woman to take the reins at the Society which formed in 1831. According to Robyn, agriculture is a dynamic, innovative industry that requires smart, educated individuals seeking a challenge. And there’s no shortage of diverse individuals interested in working in agriculture. “It is a great privilege to be appointed to lead an organisation that has been working to promote agriculture in WA for 191 years,” Robyn said. “Women have always played an integral role in the agriculture sector, and I am looking forward to recognising and celebrating all diversity across this incredible sector.” When it came to entering the agriculture field, she said her childhood was the catalyst behind her career choice. “Being from the Wheatbelt region and with farming in my blood, it seemed like a natural fit to combine

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“The WARAS council has done an enormous amount of work looking to the future of the Society and I am looking forward to bringing this work to fruition,” Robyn said. “This includes navigating COVID-19 and delivering the Royal Show in 2022, the longer-term redevelopment of the Claremont Showgrounds and growing the promotion of the WA agricultural sector through the development of the Royal Show Food Awards.”

Nina Kennedy (2014) Nina has reclaimed the Australian Open Women’s Pole Vault title and secured her ticket to both the World Athletics Championships in Oregon and Commonwealth Games in Birmingham later this year. The Australian record worked off a shorter run-up to win the title in just five jumps with a best clearance of 4.35m.

Drawing on her strong focus on working with rural communities, Robyn encourages all students to stay open to working in a regional location, when finding their passion. “You don’t have to map out a career pathway as things never go quite to plan and some of the best advice I received is to keep your options open. It can help to pursue your interests, even if they change over time, and grab opportunities as they come your way,” Robyn said. “I am always a big advocate for people in any career to work in a regional location as it gives you a unique experience, and you usually learn a lot more skills in a much shorter time frame.”

Jorja Gammage (2012) Jorja was recently appointed Stud Manager of one of Australia’s leading Thoroughbred Studs, Dorrington Farm, based in Victoria.

Angela Aroozoo (Wong 1981) Angela has recently been appointed Chief Legal Counsel and Company Secretary of Sun Cable Pty Ltd. Sun Cable is developing the world’s largest solar farm to deliver electricity to the Northern Territory and Singapore. This power source will be capable of supplying up to 15 per cent of Singapore’s total electricity needs. Angela, originally from Singapore, attended PLC in 1981 and loved the School and the Perth lifestyle. Angela feels fortunate to be able to “contribute meaningfully to major infrastructure projects that have brought significant development in a number of countries, including Papua New Guinea and Nigeria”. Angela’s advice is that “it takes a whole team of people from different walks of life to transform a vision - so there is no one path that is right. The world truly is an exciting place - be open to all sorts of opportunities and have fun at it.”

Jacqui Swick (2019) Jacqui is ready for the 2022 World Rowing Cup after being selected for the Australian Rowing Team after just three years in the sport. The World Rowing Cup will be held in Poznan, Poland, from Thursday 16 June to Sunday 19 June. Jacqui first represented PLC in rowing at the 2019 IGSSA Head of the River and will now make her national debut. “Representing Australia on a senior level this early in my rowing career is such an honour and I truly cannot wait,” Jacqui said. “It wasn’t long ago that I was watching Australia’s success at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics and to think that some of those girls are now my teammates is surreal.” Transitioning from sailing to rowing in 2018, Jacqui’s interest in rowing could be considered relatively late by national standards. Nevertheless, she refused to let this deter her from pursuing the sport to the best of her ability. “I began rowing at the end of Year 11 with PLC and I spent just as much time swimming as I would rowing, however, the squad welcomed me with open arms and I was ready for nationals six months later,” Jacqui said. Jacqui was talent identified midway through Year 11, during a Physical Education class that happened to involve the fundamentals of rowing and ergos. With the strong mentorship and encouragement of the PLC Rowing Shed coaches, particularly PLC’s Head Rowing Coach, Mr David Milne, Jacqui was successful in earning a seat in the First VIII for the 2019 IGSSA Head of the River and never looked back. “Rowing is like riding a bike. Beginning is a daunting experience, but once you get your first few falls out the way, you are good to go!” Jacqui said. Jacqui hopes her success story inspires more students to chase their dreams, no matter their level of experience.

plc.wa.edu.au

FROM THE

ARCHIVES Rev Tim Daniel during WWI, courtesy Australian War Memorial.

By Shannon Lovelady Warning: Sensitive content. All names of the Daniel family have been changed.

For this edition, we thought we’d share some of the in-depth research we undertook for Dr Susan Maushart in her writing of our centenary history, This Little World. This is one of the stories we did not include. To tell it, we go back to 1916, when Ellen Daniel came to PLC. Back in 2013 we found ourselves wondering why her recorded guardian was our Founder, the Rev George Nisbet Dods, as both her parents were still living. We decided to look further into it and did not expect to find what we did! Ellen’s parents, Tim and Lilly (six years older) married in Ireland in around 1898. Their children William and Ellen were born in July 1900 and December 1901 respectively. Tim Daniel was an ambitious Presbyterian minister who arrived in Fremantle with his wife and children in July 1902. A third child, a little boy, was born in January 1903 but, sadly, died two months later. We began tracking their movements after they arrived in WA. Rev Daniel was very active and there was much reported on him in the newspapers. We looked in the social pages for mentions of what Lilly was doing, alongside her prominent husband. We checked for all the usual things - charities she supported, people she visited, dances at Government House, afternoon teas and important events she attended, all the usual mentions ... but there was nothing. A very big silence all around her. In 1915, Rev Daniel enlisted to serve in WWI as a military chaplain. He stated he was married, so we could presume

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Lilly wasn’t dead, but it was very unusual for him to name his 15-yearold son, William, his next of kin. Ellen was put into PLC and William into Scotch College. At night, and on weekends, Ellen went home to Rev Dods’ home in West Perth, as Rev Dods had a daughter, Chrissie, around Ellen’s age. William was initially also under the care of Rev Dods too but, after a few years at Scotch, his guardian changed to P C Anderson, who was then the Principal of Scotch College. Ellen finished her schooling here at the end of 1919 and Rev Daniel returned from the war in 1920, very highly decorated. He gathered Ellen and headed off to South Australia from where Ellen wrote back, quite cheerfully, of her services as her father’s aide, standing by his side. Again, we wondered, where was Lilly? And then we found her dying in

Claremont years later, and an awful realisation hit. She might have been in Claremont Lunatic Asylum. Going about confirming this required some thinking outside the box and a welcome collaboration with mental health services and historian, Dr Philippa Martyr, and a week or so later we’d done it - confirmed poor Lilly Daniel had indeed been admitted to Claremont by her husband on 1 December 1911. Her admission form records that he told them she had, naturally, become quite depressed after the loss of their baby boy in 1903 and that she had been mentally unwell, on and off, for the past 6-7 years. Periodically, it says, she neglected herself and

the household duties and refused to dress, wash, or prepare food.

Ward at the Claremont Asylum taken on 22 August 1909 by E L Mitchell, courtesy State Library of Western Australia 154092PD

She was monosyllabic on admission, but said “do not burn me!” The poor woman believed she was in hell. Maybe she was. When we retrieved her record from the State Records Office, we saw that, like most patients in the Asylum, this poor woman was seen by a doctor just once a month after which, on average, just six words were written on her evaluation sheet. Often there is just “no change”, on the line below the month before. Incredibly, in this manner, Lilly Daniel passed the next 24 years. She died on 6 July 1935, aged 69 and was buried in a pauper's grave at Karrakatta, reserved for residents of Claremont Asylum, meaning she was never even given a headstone. Who attended her funeral? Not her children, for they lived in other states. And because there were no death notices placed for her in the newspapers by anyone, we wondered if they even knew what happened to her. They would have only been 10 and 11 when she went in there, after all.

Dining Room at the Claremont Asylum taken on 22 August 1909 by E L Mitchell, courtesy State Library of Western Australia 154093PD

But now we know what happened. And, a few times now, we’ve gone and laid flowers on her grave.

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FROM THE

ARCHIVES

Recent Accessions

Olive ‘Dosh’ Cusack nee Drummond (Deputy Principal 1941-1962) as a teacher at Perth Modern School (middle, back), c1921.

Thank you to those who have recently donated items to our Archives. Jill Slatyer (Bird 1955) 1954 Kookaburra Christine Hebiton (Alexander 1969) 1969 Speech Night invitation; 1972 Invitation to the official opening of the new Library and Classrooms; 1989 Order of Service for the Memorial Service for Heather Barr; 1996 IGSSA Swimming programme; 1999 Speech Night programme. Wendy Addis (Head Prefect 1954) The Sherwood Papers: A Swan River Story, by Margaret Love (Sherwood 1954). Jodie Nunn (1989) A 1989 Boarders’ Leavers’ shirt featuring a herd of bison saying “As if we all know where we’re going.”

Thanks to Archives Volunteers Huge thanks to Jane Meneghello (McGibbon) who has returned again this year to assist in the Archives, a job she has realised is never ending! She is painstakingly arranging the Photographic Collection into chronological order and demetalling, flattening, and organising archival documents.

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Digital Accessions Lucy Hair (Williams 1989) The slideshow and seven significant photos from the Pipe Band’s 40th Anniversary event on 31 August 2021 (see pic); Agendas, Minutes and Reports from the Friends of Pipe Band; Jane Anne McLarty’s (Symington 1964) final list of all PLC Pipe Band 2 and Senior Pipe Band members from 1981-2021; Oral histories from Peter and Kerry Jones; Ailsa Miller; and Hazel Day; List of engagements at which the Pipe Band has played, 1981-2021; The unabridged version of Proud to be PLC, with notes.

Jo Pope (Lapsley 1981) via Lucy Hair (Williams 1989) Ten photos and a 1978 note thanking Jo for playing at Speech Night that year from Miss Heather Barr (1949; Principal 1968-1989).

Kathy Bonus (Lefroy 1983) via Lucy Hair (Williams 1989) Ten photos of Boarders in the Pipe Band at PLC and on tour to Townsville, 1983.

Barry Green, widower of Helen Green (Novakov 1961) Two photos of Helen at School, in 1956 and as a Prefect in 1961.

Carol Dodson (1971) Ten images of Carol and her friends during her years at PLC (1968-1971). Emma Withers Perth Modern School Photo of Olive ‘Dosh’ Cusack (Deputy Principal 1941-1962) when a young teacher at Perth Modern School, her alma mater, c1921.

Meera Honan (Sinnathamby 1988) via Jessamy Mahony (Carroll 1988) Photo of 1988 Leavers in Year 7W (for Williams), 1983.

Pipe Band on the Quad with Lyn Cairns, 1983

1983 Pipe Major, Drum Major and Leading Stroke, 25 June 1983 L-R: Kathy Bonus (Lefroy 1983), Roslyn Cvitanovich (Samson 1983) and Kathryn Mathwin (Miles 1984)

Susan Johns with the PLC and Scotch Presentation books. Photo courtesy Paul McGovern, Post Newspapers

The Power of a PLC Presentation Book Local resident, Timothy Johns, was cycling with his children on Monday 2 May 2022 when he came across a big pile of papers, a video, old photos and other family treasures under a bush beside the Claremont railway track. They took it home and rang the police, who said they likely wouldn’t be able to find the rightful owner. Timothy’s daughter, Susan (10) was particularly concerned that these items wouldn’t go back to whoever had lost them. Among the items was a PLC Presentation Book awarded to Debra Warren as Dux of her class in 1967. Timothy picked up the phone and called PLC Archivist, Shannon Lovelady.

PLC’s first Pipers at the 40th Anniversary celebration of the Pipe Band, 31 August 2021 L-R: Ashley Mottershead (Fraser 1981), Fiona Cumming (1981), Jo Pope (Lapsley 1981)

Ms Lovelady was able to find information on Debra, where she is now, and that she has a wonderful long history with PLC, starting with her mother Siddy Crampton, one of our lovely Old Girls from the early 1930s. Debra was a day girl from 1965-1971, and her daughter Emma graduated from here in the 1990s with her own daughters now on the list to attend within the next year or two. Debra was contacted straight away and reported to Ms Lovelady that they had indeed had a break-in on the Thursday night prior and that many precious things had been stolen, including these family items. She was so pleased to know she would get them back.

At the 40th Anniversary of the Pipe Band event, 31 August 2021 L-R: Ailsa Miller, Peter Jones OAM, Kerry Jones, Marie Hastings

“And the book I won as Dux!” she said, “It was the only year I ever won, and I’m never letting it go!”

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FOUNDATION

REPORT

Realising Potential Foundation scholarship recipient, Bryzlyn Sin (Year 12) is an avid performer, who has a strong interest in Music, debating and public speaking and a gift for accounting. According to Bryzlyn, PLC has released the potential she never realised she had. Her talent behind a piano has seen her perform in Carnegie Hall and win national and international competitions. Over the past four years, she has represented PLC in a number of public speaking competitions including coming runner-up at her first public speaking competition, the UN Youth Voice Public Speaking Competition in 2017. Since then, she has represented WA at the UN Voice Nationals in Brisbane, won the What’s Your Point? Youth Public Speaking Competition, and been a state finalist in UN Voice Nationals in Perth. In debating, she has competed in Inter-House debating, WADL

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debating, AHISA debating and other academic competitions such as the UN Youth Voice, Australasian Philosothon, Fogarty Futures Leadership Conference Camp, Mock Trials, UN Evatt and Da Vinci Decathlons throughout Years 7 to 11. She was also selected to participate in the Curtin Innovative Student Scholars Programme in 2020. While her achievements seem endless in debating, public speaking, and music, Bryzlyn was also accelerated WACE Accounting in Year 11 and was awarded the Year 12 PLC Accounting and Finance prize in 2021 and passed the Accounting 100 unit with a High Distinction at Curtin University. With the rigors of academia and music, it would be easy to think that Bryzlyn wouldn’t have time for much else, yet she describes herself as “most passionate about community service”. “I have been involved in many PLC service programmes including Cooking for a Cause, where we cook meals for disadvantaged people

and being a reading buddy for the Smith Family Student2Student Buddy Reading Programme, which helps disadvantaged students to improve and boost their confidence in reading,” Bryzlyn said. Bryzlyn said that being a PLC girl means she is spurred to work to her best ability and uphold the high integrity of PLC values: learning, community, effort, and honour. She was named a semi-finalist in the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards, was awarded the City of Kalamunda’s 2021 Young Local Hero of the Year, achieved her Duke of Edinburgh (Bronze) in 2020, and Bronze Medallion by Royal Life Saving in 2021. To top it off, she is also the Chief Editor of PLC’s creative magazine, Pastiche in 2022. If there was ever a student who embodies the ethos of ‘if you’re given an opportunity, then you grab it with both hands’, it’s Bryzlyn.

From the Wheatbelt to the Wide, Open Ocean By Emma Wilkinson (Year 11) Foundation Scholarship Student When my mum first told me about the Leeuwin sailing opportunity by applying for sponsorship, I prepared my application straight away. I had heard about the amazing time my friends had when they completed a Leeuwin voyage for Year 10 Quest. This motivated me to give it a go. To start with, I applied for the Co-operative Bulk Handling (CBH) sponsorship. CBH is a grain growers’ co-operative that handles, markets and processes grain from the grain growing areas such as the Wheatbelt - where I am from. I completed the application and waited a few weeks before I got an email advising I was unsuccessful at receiving the CBH sponsorship but instead they offered me the Sir Frank Ledger Trust sponsorship. Frank Ledger was a Perth-born engineer, industrialist, and philanthropist, who wanted to help young people of Western Australia achieve success through education. I was very excited to be offered this opportunity. I accepted the offer in late December then had a long wait until the departure on Friday 21 January 2022 from the Bunbury Port. We sailed along the coast from Bunbury. Once we got close to Rottnest Island, we headed out to sea. To be exact, we were 135 km away from land and I learnt, once we had arrived back on land, that in fact it was 3,000m deep at that point!

The first few days of the voyage we were taught the skills that we needed to sail the ship. I also met heaps of new friends within the first couple of days. It was cool getting to know other people and where they were from and why they chose to come on the Leeuwin too. There was a total of 55 on board; 15 crew members and 40 students. On about the third day, everyone became seasick which wasn’t too fun. It lasted about two days before we all got over it and could enjoy ourselves once again. Every day we learnt things like the names of sails, each line and rope on the ship, what it controls, the history of the ship and the ocean around us. On the fifth day they let us have a shore day at Rottnest Island! That morning after we cleaned up and packed for the beach, we travelled over in ‘Doris’ which are like dingy boats. It was a slow trip to the shore but as soon as we got there, everyone let loose and jumped straight into the water to cool down. We went for a walk up to the lighthouse and checked out the view from the top, which was amazing. It was quite difficult to walk straight again, after being used to wobbling side to side for the past couple of days. One challenge I overcame was climbing up to the top of the main mast. It was very scary, but I brushed

past my fear of heights and climbed up to the top with my mate who was also quite nervous. Only those who climb to the very top can read a special message on the mast. I felt very proud once I was back down at the bottom. I knew if I didn’t complete this challenge, I would have regretted it, so it was worth overcoming my fear of heights. We were anchored near Rottnest for a few days, still training and preparing us for the take-over day. This was on the second last day, where we sailed ourselves from Rottnest into Fremantle, going past all the cargo ships. It was such a cool experience to take up the anchor and set the sails by ourselves to make our way back home after seven days at sea. I would highly recommend this opportunity to anyone. I learnt so much about myself and the voyage itself was incredible. I believe in giving everything a go and to make the most of the opportunities you are given. If anyone ever gets the chance, take it, say “yes”; I promise you won’t regret it. The Leeuwin is honestly such an amazing opportunity, even though being seasick wasn’t the best it was all part of the experience and made it even more unforgettable.

plc.wa.edu.au

FOUNDATION

REPORT

Mr Green his children; Julian (L), Aleksandra and Stephan (R)

Thank you Donors Thank you for your generous gifts to the PLC Foundation. We are grateful to have your support. Through your donations we have been able to continue to serve as an independent manager and custodian for the provision of sustainable financial support to PLC over the longer term. The PLC Foundation Board members extend their gratitude and thank supporters of the Annual Giving Programme including all the families who donate through Voluntary Contributions.

The Green’s Lasting Legacy At the start of 2022, Mr Barry Green approached the PLC Foundation and made a generous donation in memory of his late wife Helen (Novakov 1961) an honour that will see countless students benefit for years to come. Helen, born Jelena in Zrenjanin, Yugoslavia, immigrated to Australia with her parents and sister in 1950 and Mr Green recalls that his wife’s father was extremely progressive for his time as he insisted that his daughters receive a good education. They were not a wealthy family, however, Helen was fortunate enough to be educated at PLC and it was here that she developed her passion for literature and writing.

Thanks also to those donors who continue to meet their commitment to the 2017 Scholarships Fundraising Campaign and the 2020 PLC Student Hardship Appeal. Your donations truly make a difference, and we are extremely grateful. The PLC Foundation Incorporated is a not-for-profit organisation. Donations of $2 and over are tax deductible. A tax receipt will be issued for all donations to the PLC Foundation Building Fund and the PLC Foundation Scholarship Fund.

It is Mr Green’s hope that the memory of Helen is carried forward in perpetuity through an initiative involving literature or writing in some capacity as this was her passion. “I know what a PLC education has given Helen. It opened up a whole new world,” Mr Green said. “It means a great deal to me to be able to give this gift in her name – she would have loved that. And if it means a student can, like Helen, have their love of literature ignited then that’s just the bonus, isn’t it.” Mr Green and their children will be ever grateful to PLC and the life it afforded her. “When she chose her Year 11 and 12 subjects, the Principal at the time, Dr Summers, said her choices weren’t demanding enough and encouraged her to choose more challenging subjects,” Mr Green said. “Dr Summers had a keen eye for talent. Helen appreciated that in the end.”

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The Foundation Welcomes A very warm welcome to our new PLC Foundation Scholarship student, Brianna Mai (Year 7).

2021 Donors

Albion Foundation Pty Ltd Mr Brad & Dr Jane Allen (Perkins 1984) Mr David Ambrose (1958) Mr John & Mrs Sandra Andrew (Phillips 1965) Mr Tim Andrew & Ms Jane Moffat Mrs Margaret Atkins OAM (Cusack 1947) Dr Barbara Baird (1957) Mr Andrew & Mrs Rebecca Banks Mr William & Dr Dawn Barker Mr Kieran & Mrs Michelle Barrett (Wandel 1994) Dr Geoffrey Batt & Ms Victoria Aitken Mr Kim & Mrs Jasmine Batten Mr Simon & Mrs Emma Bedbrook (Prowse 1994) Dr Mark Bell & Dr Brooke Sheldon (1989) Mr Paul and Mrs Sascha Bennett (Bartley 1998 Mr Brian & Mrs Melissa Beresford (Barrett 1988) Mr Toby Bird & Ms Dimitra Ventouras (1991) Mr Charles & Mrs Liz Bolt (Pethick 1984) Mr Michael & Mrs Beverley Bowen Mr Dawson & Mrs Lisa Bradford (Jones1991) Mr Geoffrey & Mrs Janette Brown Mr Richard & Mrs Samantha Buchanan Dr James & Dr Ellen Buck Mr Anthony & Mrs Tanya Buckle Dr Jessica Bunning (1993) Mr David Burt & Mrs Christine Burt Mr Craig Burton & Mrs Katrina Burton (Fairweather 1982) Mrs Charmian Burton Mr Darin Cairns & Ms Rachel Gallagher Mr Mark & Mrs Delphine Calderwood Dr Rebecca Caslick (Luttrell 1993) Mr Bernard & Mrs Meregene Chang Dr Raphael & Mrs Emily Chee Mr Dong Chen & Ms Shirley Wang Mr Sandy Clarkson (1962) Mr Edward & Mrs Kate Cox (Dowsett 1988) Mr Andrew Cox & Ms Clancy Jarvis Mr Dan & Mrs Liana Cox

Hon June Craig AM (Lynn 1947) Mrs Noreen Craig (Beatty1939) Mr Grant Creagh Mr James & Mrs Fiona Crisp (Amey 1990) Ms Jo Cruickshank (1977) Mr Jian Cui & Mrs Li Sun Department of Communities Mr Chris & Mrs Jenelle Dodds Mr Grant Donaldson & Mrs Cathy Donaldson Mr Marcus & Mrs Emma Donato Mr Craig & Mrs Jo Doney Ms Amanda Douglas Mr Jonathan & Mrs Katrina Downes Mr Nick & Mrs Melinda Draper Dr Anne Durack (1963) Mr Paul Early & Ms Stephanie Schmidt Mr Josef El-Raghy & Miss Tracey Shepherd Mr Toby & Mrs Peter Ellis Mr Chris & Mrs Tia Ellison Dr Matthew Erickson & Ms Rebecca Kelsall (1986) Mr Peter & Mrs Gillian Fairweather Mr Andrew & Mrs Sarah Fairweather Mr Nathan & Mrs Emma Falconer Mr Mick & Mrs Marnie Fels Miss Barbara Finch (1950) Mrs Kristy Fogarty Mr Carlo Franchina Mr Stuart & Mrs Melissa Fraser Mr Anthony & Mrs Rosemarie Gianotti Ms Vicki Edwards & Ms Melissa Gillett (1984) Ms Andrea Gillett (1980) Gilmac WA Pty Ltd Mr Geoffrey Gishubl & Ms Jennifer Grove (1989) Mr Bronson Gobetti & Ms Melanie Ginbey Mr Brian Godfrey Mr Angus & Mrs Justine Goody Mrs Annie Gregg (Cooke 1953) Dr Kate Hadwen Miss J Hardie (1951) Mr Morgan & Mrs Bev Harland Mr Bradley Haynes & Ms Simone Burford Mr Mark & Mrs Jemma Hector Dr Simon Hellings & Dr Anna Clare Mr Matthew & Mrs Kylie Hopkins

Mr Mark & Mrs Carolyn Hyde Mr Jon & Mrs Candie Italiano Mr Scott Jackson & Dr Linda Muntz Mr Kirk & Mrs Lisa Jeitz (Stone 1992) Mr Cameron & Mrs Karen Jenkinson Dr Pankaj & Dr Reena Kataria Mr Simon & Mrs Natalie Kelsall Mr Damian & Mrs Kristin Kestel Mr Jonathan & Mrs Helen Keys (Venerys 1983) Mr Nicolas & Mrs Audrey Komajda Mrs Anne Kyle (Jago 1948) Dr Ade & Mrs Julia Lambo Mr Wade & Mrs Kathleen Langford Mrs Julie Larkin (Sedgman 1951) Mrs Anne Latchford (L'Epagniol 1949) Mr Keith & Mrs Michelle Lazaroo Mr Duy Quang & Mrs Thao Nguyen Mrs Verona (Tibby) Lea (Baron-Hay 1949) Mr Adrian & Mrs Jackie Lee Mr Joseph Lenny & Dr Bernie McElhinney Mrs Helen Lewis Mr T Duffield & Ms Morgen Lewis (1987) Mr Geoffrey & Mrs Anne Marie Lewis Mr Richard Li & Mrs Wei Su Mrs Rosalind Lilley (1961 McClelland) Mr Paul & Mrs Kailee Lingard Mr Jun Liu & Mrs Linda Zhang Dr Michael Lovegrove & Dr Sarah Smith (1989) Mrs Carol Lovegrove Mr Clive & Mrs Emma Luck Mrs Beverley Ludlow (Harrison 1956) Mr Stephen & Mrs Linda Lyall Ms Kate Macgregor (1985) Mr Ian Macliver Mr Brod & Mrs Caroline MacPhail Mr James & Mrs Cate Mactier Malka Foundation Pty Ltd Mr Roland Mau Mr David McCarthy Mr Chris & Mrs Jennifer McGrath Miss Monica McInnes (2002) Mr Cameron & Mrs Alice McIntosh Mr Andrew & Mrs Cate McKenzie (England 1986) Mrs Keryn & Mr Rob McKinnon Mr Bruce & Mrs Sally McLarty

Middlemas Foundation Mr Luke & Mrs Jane Miels (Cox 1984) Mr Adam & Dr Kasia Miethke Mrs Sue Monger (Mills 1949) Mr Geoffrey & Mrs Jacqueline Muir Mr Michael & Mrs Shalini Munro Mr Trevor Nairn Mr Robert Nakhoul & Ms Christina Eftos (1989) Mr Gary & Mrs Fiona Norwood Mr Colm & Mrs Fiona O'Brien Ms Tammy & Mrs Kahli O'Connor Mr Kerry Osling & Ms Rowena Smith (1984) Mr Dickon & Mrs Annalisa Oxenburgh (Nelson 1983) Mr Vel Pajic Mr Brad & Mrs Susan Pantall (Gibbs 1987) Mr Paull Parker & Ms Genevieve Gibbs (1982) Dr Mark Parker & Ms Sarah Cox Mr Craig Pasch & Ms Shaan Beccarelli Mr James & Mrs Mary-Alice Paton Ms Suzanne Pelczar Dr David & Mrs Jenny Playford Mr Nick & Mrs Claire Poll Mr Michael & Mrs Alison Purves Mr Robert & Mrs Alison Quinlivan Ms Jenny Rankin Mr Stott & Mrs Charmaine Redman Mr Ashley Reichstein & Mrs Megan McDowall Mr Peter & Mrs Jayne Ricciardello Mr Glen Rivers & Ms Sue Peacock Mr Peter & Mrs Tobey Robinson Dr Julian & Mrs Gowri Roche Dr Robert Serich & Dr Jenny Rogers (1972) Dr David & Mrs Louise Russell-Weisz Mr James & Mrs Erica Salt Sarah Basden Foundation (Manners 1984) Mr Sean & Mrs Taryn Scadding (Crombie 1991) Mr Bernard & Mrs Julia Schortinghuis (Osborne 1989) Mr Rob & Mrs Liz Scott Mr Brian Scott Mr Adam & Mrs Winks Shephard (Sheedy 1988) Mrs Glenice Shephard Dr Timothy Silbert & Ms Fiona Hogg (1984)

Dr Romesh & Mrs Geetha Singam Dr Sarvesh & Mrs Shikha Singh Mrs Alison Sloper (Thomas 1960) Dr Jeffrey & Mrs Sarah Smith Mr Chad & Mrs Sarah Sounness Mrs Margaret Stamper (Monger 1947) Mr Roger & Mrs Jackie Steinepreis Mr Scott Stirrat & Ms Lynda Cornish Mr Jeff & Mrs Kate Stoney (Watts 1997) Mr Neil Sudwell Mr Peter Swingler & Dr Kieren Gara (1990) Mr Andrew & Mrs Hayley Tait Dr Eric Tan & Ms Emma Yu Mr William & Mrs Kylie Telfer Mr Rob & Mrs Sam Terriaca Mr Ivaylo & Mrs Slavena Terzieva Mrs Valerie Thompson (Gardiner 1956) Mrs Betty Trotter (Gibbs 1939) Mr Simon & Ms Fiona van den Berg Dr Richard & Mrs Elizabeth Vaughan (Overton 1962) Dr Duc Vo & Mrs Ha Le W. Fairweather & Son Pty Ltd Mr Damian Wake & Ms Alison Hayward Mr Peter & Mrs Tanya Wall Dr Sue-Anne Wallace AM (1963) Mr Denis Walsh & Ms Emma Tongue Mr Scott & Mrs Jane Wandel (Murray) Mr Mark & Mrs Hayley Wandel Mr Tom Wang & Ms Christina Du Mrs Sue Warburton (Chandler 1958) Mr Chris & Mrs Jaye Weaver Mr Brad Williams & Ms Jenni Dakic Mr Hongbing Yan & Mrs Yanling Li Mr Tully Young Mr Hui Zhu & Mrs Rui Yan One anonymous donor We have also received a benevolent bequest from the estate of Lesley BarrettLennard (Gibson 1942).

PLC Foundation 2022 Annual Giving Programme Each year, PLC Foundation’s Annual Giving campaign forms an essential part of the Foundation’s fundraising initiatives. Annual Giving is a way that members of the PLC Community can contribute today and leave a legacy that makes a real difference to every student who attends PLC now and into the future. To donate visit plc.wa.edu.au/donate/ or email Suzanne Pelczar foundation@plc.wa.edu.au

OBITUARIES

Jelena ‘Helen’ Green (Novakov 1961) 29 November 1944 – 4 December 2019 Jelena was born in Zrenjanin, Yugoslavia (Serbia today) during WWII, after her parents, Nebojsa and Alessandra, and her older sister, Teodora, fled through advancing Russian lines from their home in Pančevo (near Belgrade). In 1949, the family escaped Communist Yugoslavia in a commandeered boat, and sailed across the Adriatic Sea to Ancona, Italy, where they were four of more than 30 million ‘displaced persons’. Life was strange and difficult, but Jelena went to Kindergarten and, along with her native Serbo-Croat, also became fluent in Italian. The Novakovs were among over 170,000 displaced persons Australia took in after WWII, nearly 3,000 of whom were from the former Yugoslavia. They were sent to a German processing camp and embarked on the ‘Skaugum’ for the voyage from Bremerhaven on the North Sea coast, to Fremantle. They arrived in September 1950, purportedly given a welcome bag in which was a pie and an orange, and were sent by train to the Northam migrant camp. A former WWII army camp, it was converted to accommodate new migrants in 1949, by which time it was in quite a state of disrepair. It was at this stage that Jelena became anglicised to Helen. As the family moved around Perth, Helen attended Subiaco, Mount Hawthorn and Como Primary Schools and, although she knew no English when she started, her gift for languages meant she was fluent within six months. In 1957, she came to PLC where she made lifelong friends, learnt French, enjoyed debating, sang in the victorious

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1958 Festival Choir, and was an enthusiastic member of the Music Club. In her final year she was a Prefect, was awarded Colours for Basketball, captained the B Basketball team, and was the Form Officer for Leaving A. All her life, Helen treasured her time at PLC. She said that as a 'new Australian' she had felt a little apart, but PLC - and the wonderful lifelong friends she made here - gave her the strong sense of belonging she needed. She went on to the University of Western Australia with some of her PLC friends and studied her eternal love: English Literature. After graduating university Helen moved to Sydney where she studied for her Librarianship Diploma from the University of New South Wales, after which she began working at the Public Library of New South Wales.

A second child, Julian, was born in Munich before the family moved to England, near Abington and Oxford, in 1973, where their third child, Aleksandra, was born. They stayed there for the next 20 years, with Helen working as a magistrate, hearing lesser cases in court, from within their community. Following their time in England they lived in Tokyo and Naka Sugaya, Japan, for ten years to 2003, and then Brussels, Belgium, for another three and a half years.

It wasn’t long before Helen met Barry Green, a PhD candidate studying Physics at the University of Sydney, and they married here at Christ Church, Claremont, on 28 December 1966. After Barry graduated in 1967, they spent a year in Princeton, USA, followed by five years in Garching near Munich, Germany, where their first child, Stefan, was born.

For forty years Helen and Barry shared their passion for travel, in the process of which Helen added German and Japanese to her languages, and improved on her French. They returned to Perth in 2007 to be near Helen’s widowed mother, Alessandra, and sister Teodora. They settled in City Beach where Helen died, suddenly and unexpectedly in December 2019, aged 75.

In 1970, Helen, Barry, and baby Stefan travelled back to Yugoslavia to visit Helen’s parents’ home town, Pančevo. Though they travelled to other places in old Yugoslavia, they never went to Zrenjanin.

Helen was a devoted wife, a loving mother and, more recently, an adoring grandmother; a vibrant woman with a laugh and smile that lit the lives of the many people she loved, and who loved her in return, around the world.

We are saddened to hear of the passing of the following Old Collegians:

Mary Moustaka (Curwood 1943) 28 July 1926 – 20 May 2021

Faye Margaret Arnold (Scanlan 1937) 26 June 1921 – 25 March 2021

Valmai Joy Nathan (Nathan 1970) 17 September 1953 – 28 August 2021

Dr Anne Brearley (Paterson 1966) 18 September 1949 – 12 February 2022

Dianne Mescal ‘Didi’ Page (Bonner 1955) 19 May 1938 – 2 February 2022

Deidre Rae Brown (Davies 1947) 12 December 1928 – 18 June 2018 Eithne Bryant (Pope 1946) 11 September 1928 - 16 May 2022 Valmai Carney (Duncan 1948) 15 December 1930 – 10 November 2015 Michael Thomas Chapman (Kindy 1961-1962) 4 December 1956 – 8 January 2020 Patricia May Cooke (Wright 1944) 28 December 1927 – 3 November 2017 Mary Esther Dunn (Freecorn 1938) 26 November 1921 – 8 November 2021 Geoffrey Norman Fernie (Kindy 1940) 17 September 1934 – 18 June 2020 Peggy Marie Halkyard (Moss 1946) 11 September 1929 – 22 January 2022 Gweneth Patricia Hamilton (Bond 1949) 12 October 1932 – 9 June 2020 Norma Ellen Harken (Callcott 1948) 7 January 1931 – 2 October 2016 Ann Margaret Harries (Miller 1942) 12 April 1925 – 29 July 2016 Helen Edith Hayman (Andrew 1950) 9 October 1933 – 12 December 2021 Lesley Russell Hillman (Dumas 1938) 8 August 1921 – 21 December 2020 Madeleine Elizabeth Maas (Roberts 1948) 7 August 1931 – 16 May 2021 Flora May MacDonald (Hodby 1949) 29 March 1932 – 27 March 2019 Shirley May McDonald (Webb 1949) 28 July 1932 – 27 August 2018 Douglas Graeme McKiggan (Kindy 1943-1944; OSC 1956) 18 November 1939 – 30 November 2021 Valerie Fern Howard (MacPherson 1950) 7 March 1932 – 12 January 2022

Joan Wilson Munckton (Cook 1950) 20 August 1933 – 21 October 2020

Ann Yvonne Parker (Rosenthal 1945) 18 January 1928 – 26 February 2019 Kathleen Mary ‘Molly’ Paterson formerly Boys (Allen 1947) 28 September 1928 – 7 January 2022 Elizabeth Anne ‘Betty’ Price (Bray 1949) 28 November 1932 – 23 August 2020 Margaret Ann Reardon (Whittle 1952) 9 September 1935 – 28 January 2022 Poppy Elizabeth Reed formerly Upton (Perrin 1942) 1 September 1925 – 13 December 2020 Merrill Stewart Robinson (Bean 1945) 28 April 1928 – 28 November 2018 Mark Andrew Samson (Kindy 1957; OSC 1969) 21 January 1952 – 6 March 2020 Jennifer Margaret Taylor (1974) 16 July 1957 – 17 March 2022 Elisabeth Mary ‘Bet’ Theyer (Bode 1946) 28 August 1929 – March 2022 Rex Barnard Twogood (Kindy 1967-1968; OSC 1980) 10 April 1963 – 10 February 2022

Community Tour Dates If you are looking to experience the unique PLC culture and spirit, we encourage you to join us at one of our Community Tours. A tour of PLC allows you to view our facilities, meet our Principal and staff, see our girls in their learning environment and ask any questions you may have. To enable us to give you the best possible experience on the tours, numbers are limited and bookings preferred. For bookings visit plc.wa.edu.au

Junior School Community Tours commence in the Junior School Library at 9.00 am and finish at 10.30 am. Thursday 4 August Saturday 17 September - Early Learning Centre Tour

Beryl Amie Tyler (Jenkins 1942) 1 January 1925 – 19 June 2018

Wednesday 21 September

Thelma Emily Webster (Fisher 1947) 25 September 1929 – 22 November 2021

Tuesday 25 October

We are also saddened to hear of the passing of the following former staff:

commence in the Auditorium at

Mrs Allison Margaret Dunn (formerly Miss Norton) French and German teacher 1946-1947 5 November 1925 – 2 September 2021

Senior School Community Tours 9.00 am and finish at 11.00 am Thursday 28 July Tuesday 16 August Wednesday 14 September Thursday 20 October

P L C

“MEADOWS” NOT ANOTHER ABSTRACT SERIES BY SAM SADIK (DE SILLERY 2005)

O C A

ART

EXHIBITION 26-28 AUGUST 2022 14 MCNEIL ST PEPPERMINT GROVE

Editorial Details Black Watch is published for the community of Presbyterian Ladies’ College A College of the Uniting Church of Australia 14 McNeil Street, Peppermint Grove Western Australia 6011 T: +61 8 9424 6444 W: plc.wa.edu.au Please address all correspondence regarding Black Watch to the Publications and Communications Co-ordinator T: +61 8 9424 6475 at PLC or E: BlackWatch@plc.wa.edu.au

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Black Watch Ed 1 2022

Articles inside

Foundation Report

From the Archives

Tartan News

Old Collegians’ Association

Native Haven

PLC Remembers War Heroes

Reunions

Year 12 Motto

Talent on Show for Ukraine

Year 12 Ball

Inspiring Women Mothers’ Day Breakfast

Lucy’s Star is on the Rise

Humility at the Heart of Swimming Success

Students Brave the Shave

PLC Parents

Electrotechnology Sparks Interest for Emma

Lily Poised for International Success

All-rounder Ashley

Junior School Refurb