Black Watch Magazine Semester 2 2023

plc.wa.edu.au

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02 2023

Black Watch Presbyterian Ladies’ College A College of The Uniting Church in Australia

Black Watch

Contents Introduction 02 03 04

Message from the Principal Chair of Council Chaplain’s Address

Lead Authentically

Balance Defines Us

06 09 11 13 13 17 17

32 33 35

A Legacy Woven with Buttons Senior School Leaders 2024 Junior School Sem 2 2023 Leaders Ms James Appointed Deputy Principal Events Speech Night Embracing Sustainable Education

Sport Report State and National Achievements Boarders’ Retreat and Farewell

Learning Takes Many Paths

Our Past moves us Foward

20 22 24 25 26 27 29 30 30

37 38 39 39 42 43 45 50

Festival of Science Future Problem Solvers RAC Imagine From School Pool to Stanford Write a Book in a Day Dance Accolades Arts Day SpongeBob the Musical Bechstein Piano

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OCA Report Tartan News Reunions PLC Foundation From the Archives Recent Accessions In Memory Obituaries

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Message From the Principal

Achievements and Spirit I am delighted to welcome you to the latest edition of Black Watch, a showcase of the incredible achievements and vibrant spirit of PLC. As we conclude another remarkable semester, I am filled with immense pride for the innovation, adaptability, resilience, and creativity that have been the hallmark of our College community.

Semester 2 has been a whirlwind of activity, marked by both challenges and triumphs. Arts Day, while an exceptional showcase of the talent, creativity, and passion our students have for all areas of the Arts, it did, however, mark the departure of beloved Deputy Principal, Mrs Chris Robinson.

We are incredibly grateful for her contributions to our College and wish her all the best for the future.

Following her departure, I was delighted to promote Ms Chonny James to Deputy Principal, and you can read more about her skills and experience in this edition.

As we approach the close of the year, we also mark the departure of Ms Claire Poll, who has served with distinction as Chair of the PLC Council for the past four and a half years. It has been a privilege to have benefited from Ms Poll’s unwavering support, invaluable expertise, and the incredible amount of time she has given to this role and I would like to thank her on behalf of all members of Council, parent groups, SLT and staff.

As usual, this semester has also been a time of great celebration, with our students excelling in a wide range of academic, sporting, and cultural pursuits. These achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and parents.

Thank you for being a part of the PLC community. I hope you enjoy reading about our students, staff and community successes in this edition of Black Watch.

Cate Begbie Principal INTRODUCTION PAGE 2

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Chair of Council It has truly been a privilege and an honour to serve on the PLC Council for the past seven years and as the Chair of Council for the past five. As announced at our 2023 Speech Night, I am stepping down from Council at the end of the year.

Shortly after taking on the role as Chair, Cate Begbie was appointed as Principal. Recruiting a new principal was one of the more difficult challenges of my career because it has such an enormous and enduring impact on our PLC community.

Working with Cate has opened up a world of growth and opportunities for our College. Under Cate, PLC is going from strength to strength. She’s brought a real sense of service and lives the values of PLC of Bravery, Capability, Compassion, and Strength.

During my time as Chair, we have refreshed the Strategic Plan which lays out our priorities and commitments over the coming years. Scan the QR code below for access to our Strategic Plan, ‘Towards 2030’. We have also refreshed our Master Plan which is about staged development and responsible investment in developing our infrastructure and facilities over the coming decades.

Further details of the Master Plan will be announced soon but I am pleased to reveal that it includes the development of new Junior School outdoor play spaces, a new Senior School sporting and swimming complex, along with extending the existing Performing Arts and boarding facilities.

As I reflect on all we have accomplished over the years, and we look forward to the future, I would like to take this opportunity to express my delight in passing the reins of Chair of Council over to Morgen Lewis (1987), who has been Deputy Chair for the past two years and on Council since 2016. Jon Smeulders, who has been on Council since 2020, will step into the Deputy Chair role. I also welcome David Gee, who joined our Council late last year and brings a wealth of experience in education.

I am deeply grateful for our Council’s skills, expertise, and time, freely given to guide and safeguard our College’s future. However, the real leadership and hard work is undertaken by Cate and her staff who work tirelessly to realise our vision of “Preparing every student to be personally successful in an ever-evolving world”.

I would like to thank the staff, students, parents, and broader community for trusting me in the role as Chair and I have no doubt that PLC will remain a centre of excellence in education for years to come.

Claire Poll Chair of Council

Strategic Plan

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Chaplain’s Address Exploring the Power of Language

By Rev Nalin Perera, Chaplain In the ever-evolving landscape of human communication, language stands as a powerful and transformative tool, capable of shaping our understanding of the world and influencing our thoughts and beliefs. As the saying goes, “Manipulation of language leads to manipulation of thought,” a sentiment that beckons us to contemplate the profound impact language can have on our cognition and perception of reality.

This notion resonates hauntingly with the prophetic words of George Orwell’s 1984, a renowned dystopian novel. In this book, Orwell introduces the concept of ‘Newspeak,’ a language devised by a totalitarian regime to control thought and suppress dissent. 1984 serves as a chilling reminder of how language manipulation can be wielded to stifle independent thinking.

representing our language and communication, has the potential to breathe life and bestow blessings or to cast darkness and destruction. It reminds us that the way we employ language not only shapes our individual lives but also reverberates through the lives of those around us.

Furthermore, the manipulation of language is not limited to external forces; it can manifest within our personal interactions and self-talk. The words we choose to describe ourselves, our abilities, and our experiences shape our selfperception and self-esteem. Negative or limiting language can stifle personal growth and potential, while positive and empowering language can foster resilience and ambition.

Orwell warns that, “Freedom is the freedom to say that two plus two make four. If that is granted, all else follows.” In this dystopian world, manipulating language becomes a potent instrument for controlling thought itself, suppressing dissenting views, and enforcing unyielding loyalty to the ruling party. In this way, the subtleties of language can determine what ideas are deemed acceptable, what issues are prioritised, and even what truths are acknowledged.

However, amid the concerns of language manipulation, there exists hope and opportunity. By cultivating awareness of the power of language, we can become discerning consumers of information and more critical thinkers. The biblical verse encourages us to be mindful of our speech and the words we choose, recognising the profound consequences that can arise from our words, whether positive or negative. Moreover, Orwell’s thought reminds us of the profound connection between language and thought. When language is manipulated or restricted, the capacity for critical thinking and independent thought is severely hampered.

Drawing inspiration from the wisdom of the ages, Proverbs 18:21 in the Bible beautifully encapsulates this idea, stating, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” This verse highlights the tremendous power that lies within the words we speak. Our tongue,

Let us cherish the freedom to express our thoughts openly, while also being mindful of the impact our words can have on ourselves and others. By upholding the integrity of language and nurturing honest communication, we can preserve the richness of thought and protect our freedom of expression.

INTRODUCTION PAGE 4

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A Legacy Woven with Buttons. Mrs Chris Robinson’s Remarkable Journey

As a new chapter begins after an illustrious career at PLC, Mrs Chris Robinson, the retiring Deputy Principal (Operations) at PLC, leaves behind a tapestry of memories and a profound impact on generations of students and staff. Her journey at PLC began in 1988, where she started as a Clothing and Fabrics Teacher. Over the years, she worked under five Principals with each chapter adding a unique hue to her colourful career.

Reflecting on her career, Mrs Robinson humbly acknowledges that the true value of her impact often becomes apparent much later in life. The heartfelt feedback from former students, returning to share their love for textiles, served as a heart-warming reassurance that she made a difference in their lives. Mrs Robinson’s influence extended beyond the classroom, nurturing a sense of connection that persisted through the years.

One of the defining highlights of Mrs Robinson’s career was her unwavering passion for textiles and design. Early in her tenure, she discovered the joy of witnessing students engage with the subject of textiles. Her classes became a sanctuary for creativity, where young minds blossomed and discovered their artistic potential. Affectionately known as “Mrs Rob”, her enthusiasm for the subject was infectious, inspiring countless students to develop a love for textiles and design.

A poignant example of this lasting impact came to light during her 2007 Valedictory speech. Having been the Year Co-ordinator for this particular cohort in both Years 11 and 12, Mrs Robinson decided to create a unique and meaningful symbol of their shared bond. She presented an enormous jar of buttons she had collected over the years, along with pieces of Black Watch tartan fabric and her infamous pink taffeta skirt, which she cut in small pieces. In a heart-warming gesture, she invited each student to select a button and sew it onto the fabrics, representing the everlasting connection between PLC, Mrs Rob, and each student. The overwhelming

As her journey progressed, she assumed more leadership roles, becoming a supportive ear for her colleagues and a mentor to many.

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response, with every student eagerly participating, touched her deeply, revealing the profound impact she had on their lives.

Looking to the future, Mrs Robinson plans to continue weaving memories outside the school walls. Her newfound passion for leading tours at the Art Gallery of WA, which she embarked upon in 2022, will be an exciting journey of its own.

Additionally, she embraced the opportunity to expand her horizons with a course at the National Gallery in Victoria and a long overdue holiday to New York. But, most importantly, she looks forward to cherishing the moments with her six grandchildren, being a guiding presence in their lives, much like she was for her students and colleagues.

As PLC Perth bids farewell to a stalwart of the community, Mrs Chris Robinson’s legacy will forever be imprinted on the hearts and minds of those she taught. Her profound love for textiles and education, her ability to inspire, and her unwavering dedication to her students and colleagues are a testament to a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on the fabric of PLC. As she takes her welldeserved retirement, the threads of her influence will continue to weave through the lives of those who were fortunate enough to be a part of her journey.

May 1988 Chris sees an ad in The West Australian for a part time Domestic Science/Clothing and Fabric Teacher at PLC. She applies and gets the job the following week.

1988 Her daughter, Monique, starts at PLC in Year 5.

1991 1993

Appointed Stewart House Advisor (to 1995).

Ski Trip to Falls Creek

1993 1992 Stewart House staff

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With Chelsey Shepherdson who was Stewart House Captain at the Year 12 Ball.

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2007 Valedictory Speech Buttons are individual, every button in my bowl is different. When you put your hand in the bowl and find a button, you don’t know what button you are going to come out with, just as you don’t know what lies ahead in your life. What you do know is that your button and your life will be unique.

to the same fabric, the same life. Or you might decide to sew yourself onto different garments, different worlds, until you find the one that’s right for you.

PLC has given you the needle and thread that you need to sew your button onto whatever garment and whatever life you want.

The buttons in this bowl will find themselves on many different garments, just like you will find yourselves on many different paths. You might always stay attached

October 2007

1995 Her daughter, Monique, graduates from PLC.

2000 Appointed Year 12 Co-ordinator (to 2007)

Having been Year Co-ordinator to the same cohort for two years, Chris delivers her Valedictory Speech (button/ fabric analogy)

“

“

2008 Her daughter, Monique, joins the PLC staff as a School Psychologist. Chris is thrilled to be working alongside her daughter and does so until 2011 when Monique moves on.

1999 1996 The first year that Year Co-ordinators were appointed and Chris was asked to be the Year 11 Co-ordinator (to 1999).

Coached the winning PLC Tennis Team in the Matt Bonner Perpetual Trophy for Tennis.

This was the first time PLC had won since 1974.

January 2008 Appointed the Senior Leadership Team as Head of Staff (to December 2018)

June

2019

2023

Appointed CoDeputy Principal (with Andrew Cousins)

Retirement announced, effective August 2023

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Introducing the 2024 Senior School Prefecture Leaders

Senior School

Jacinta Boquest | Head Prefect If I told 2022 Jacinta that in the next year, she’ll have the amazing opportunity of being Head Prefect for 2024, she probably would’ve laughed in my face. One of my goals for this upcoming year as Head Prefect, and as a friend, is to ensure that students don’t miss out on opportunities that could possibly change their lives, like this recent position has for me. I aim to nurture the tight bonds between year groups so that younger students always have the sense of having a ‘big sibling,’ and can inspire each other to extend their boundaries, try out new hobbies, and feel supported in achieving their goals!

Charlotte Gishubl | Deputy Head Prefect Moving into 2024 as Deputy Head Prefect of PLC, I aim to lead with the appreciation that the success of our school cannot be defined by the actions of one person, nor the achievement of a single goal, but instead it can only be achieved through fostering a school culture which thrives and persists because of the success of the individuals which form it. So, next year I hope to manifest the confidence in my peers to be willing to put the same effort into their success, as their fellow students. Because I truly believe that it is only through the support and positivity embodied by those who surround us, that we too can thrive as a community in the coming year.

Zoe Michea-Palmer | Academic Prefect I’m so grateful to have been given the chance to be the new Academic Prefect for 2024! I look forward to taking part in all aspects of the school, as well as encouraging everyone to participate and celebrate achievements made in their academic life. I’ve always loved learning and can’t wait to project this passion for academia into the PLC community.

I would love to create new ways for students across all year groups to connect and take part in activities surrounding their interests, encouraged through the celebration and recognition of our community’s wide range of interests and successes.

Molly Crawley | Arts Captain I am truly thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to lead the school as Arts Captain for 2024. When I first arrived at PLC, I didn’t anticipate participating so fully in the Arts. While I’ve always been creative in my expression, the thought of raising my hand in Year 7 was quite daunting. Thankfully, PLC provided not only a welcoming atmosphere, but more importantly the chance to push my boundaries and venture beyond my comfort zone. This experience transformed my perspective and has propelled me down a path of embracing he Arts completely. In 2024, my aim is to sustain this supportive environment and ensure every student at PLC has the freedom, encouragement, and opportunities to explore and nurture their artistic talents and passions to the fullest.

Monique Mouda-Hughes | Reconciliation Captain My goals as Reconciliation Captain for 2024, would be to bring everyone even closer as a community. The past Reconciliation Captains have done an amazing job at connecting Indigenous girls with non-Indigenous girls, and I hope to continue and uphold this legacy. I will do my best to promote more of an understanding of different cultures from all over the world and an understanding that we all belong and are one. As I am a boarder, my first initiative would be to have a space where the Gorna Liyarn girls could go to spend time together and make it feel like home in the Boarding House.

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Ebony Withers | Reconciliation Captain As one of the Reconciliation Captains for 2024 I wish to be an upstanding role model for my peers, and all students and staff by embodying the values of the school and being a friendly face that students feel safe to come to with any questions they would like answered or ideas they would like expressed throughout the school community. My responsibility as Reconciliation Captain is to ensure that we are all doing our part in reconciliation and making PLC a place where all students can construct a greater understanding of Indigenous culture.

Sydney Emmott | Senior Boarder I have the privilege of being the Senior Boarder for 2024 and I am hoping to bring everything I can to this role not only in the Boarding House but the school as a whole. I look up to my sister Cassidy significantly, who was Senior Boarder in 2020 and hope to make as big as an impact as she did. My goal is to make boarders feel more at home and to promote more inclusivity between boarders to achieve a sense of connectedness. I hope to leave making the biggest positive impact possible, knowing that I made everyone feel that they belong.

Grace Turnbull | SS/JS Prefect I remember my years in PLC’s Junior School with such fondness, particularly for teaching me valuable lessons at an early age that have made a difference in my life and carried me through into the Senior School. Having been lucky enough to start in Year 2, my experiences have shown me how much of a community the school has, between peers and year groups. I am filled with gratitude as I take on the role of Senior School/Junior School Prefect. In my position, my primary objective is to foster stronger connections between the various year groups and to continue to promote a unified identity for our school, transcending the boundaries of the Junior School and Senior School.

It is an honour to be a part of this community, where every year group is seamlessly integrated into the PLC family.

I aspire to nurture deeper bonds and create an environment where younger students look up to the PLC’s older students. I am truly thrilled to have been entrusted with this responsibility, and I am dedicated to contributing to

the growth and cohesion of the PLC community.

Nikki Jenkins | Service Captain Mother Theresa once said, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples”. After an excellent year of service initiatives at PLC during 2023, being appointed Service Captain for 2024 has inspired me to uphold the values and roots of service and community within our school and beyond.

My biggest goal as 2024 Service Captain is to lead with the notion of collaboration and working together to create change. By including everyone’s voice, perspective, and diverse opinions, I aim to inspire and lead others in doing service from their heart.

Alexandra Enslin | Sports Captain For 2024, I’m looking to make it the year PLC takes sport to a new level. I’m not just talking about success in specific sports, but the improvement of culture and the bonds formed between different students and year groups.

A specific initiative that I am hoping to achieve is based around the culture and goal setting for each IGSSA Sport.

Before each term sport commences, every student participating from across the school (Year 7 – Year 12) will come together to collaboratively set goals for the season and a work ethic they want to maintain. This will hopefully create strong bonds, leading to teamwork, ultimately achieving our goals. This collaboration will ensure all our year groups come together and form relationships.

Genevieve Kessey | Wellbeing Captain I am incredibly proud to have been elected as PLC’s Wellbeing Captain in 2024, and excited to help lead the community I have such an appreciation for and in which I have found great comfort. In the role of Wellbeing Captain, I will explore the possibility of introducing a ‘Pay it Forward’ initiative within House Tutor Groups; aiming to strengthen friendships and community in HTGs. My ultimate goal as Wellbeing Captain is to uplift my peers to feel a sense of belonging, and lead holding the kindness and compassion I have been shown by the PLC community at heart.

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Semester 2 2023 Leaders

Junior School

Amy Huang

Sophie Landau

Florence Johnson

Head Prefect

Head Prefect

Service Leader

Millie MeredithHumphry

Tessa Ponosh

Anna Chambers

Arts Leader

Carmichael House Leader

Lucy Nientiedt

Sophia Caratti

Isabella McKenzie

Stewart House Leader

Ferguson House Leader

Ferguson House Leader

Sophie Baker

Amy Deng

Sophia Harley

Baird House Leader

Baird House Leader

McNeil House Leader

Lily Risinger

Elaine Cui

Isabel Nesa

McNeil House Leader

Summers House Leader

Summers House Leader

Service Leader

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Breaking Free in 2023 How have staff and students walked the talk this year and lived the Year 12’s Motto: “Breaking Free in ‘23”?

Year 6

Year 11

Year 3

Ms Cate Begbie

Yihan Zhang

Ashley Buckle

Grace Mete

“This year I have well and truly come out of my comfort zone when I performed a cameo appearance in SpongeBob the Musical.

“I recently competed in the Speakers’ Challenge. I was nervous to the point that I procrastinated so much that I had to complete my preparation the night before.

Written by Ms Anna Curry

“Our choir recently performed at an assembly, and I was so nervous I didn’t participate in the first performance for fear of forgetting the moves.

Principal

This experience reminded me that growth often happens outside the boundaries of familiarity.”

During the competition, I found that competing and public speaking wasn’t scary, and I now have the confidence to further my public speaking abilities.”

Year 3

Annabelle Yan “I’ve recently been struggling with taking up the violin due to fears of performing in front of an audience. With encouragement from my mum, I stepped outside my comfort zone and have performed in a recital.”

Year 3

Isobel Gibson “I was nervous as Arts Day approached and felt uncomfortable about performing the flute in front of an audience. As I performed, I realised it wasn’t all that scary, and I feel that the next time I perform I won’t be as nervous.”

Year 3

“In April, Ashley Buckle competed in the Year 11 InterHouse Public Speaking competition. Ashley’s raw and powerful speech about her family history and her love for her mother was deeply personal and incredibly moving. The audience was captivated as Ashley bravely opened up and made herself vulnerable whilst taking on the new challenge of speaking in front of the whole year group.

Ashley was deservedly awarded an Honourable Mention for her courage and authenticity, and she received the loudest and longest round of applause.”

After watching the other girls perform and seeing how much fun they were having, I participated in the second performance. I found that once I was performing, I didn’t feel as nervous.”

Year 7

Sophia Wade

Soraya Mau

“After being placed in the Top 15 during our school’s Cross Country, I was chosen for JIGSSA. In the lead-up to the event, I was quite nervous about competing with eight other schools. Now that I’ve completed the event, I feel like I wouldn’t be nervous in the same situation.”

“I’ll be performing in an upcoming school play, playing a jury member with a large number of lines to remember.

This is a step outside my comfort zone, as I’ll be performing in front of a mix of both peers and strangers. I’m nervous, but I’m determined to learn my lines and complete the performance.”

Year 9

Claudia Cox, Brigette Kapinkoff & Rose Morley “We all participated in the Triathlon as part of the Outdoor Education unit. Everyone was intimidated because it involved a 300m swim, 1km run and 1km ergo. We ended up enjoying the activities and felt a great sense of accomplishment.”

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Ms James Appointed Deputy Principal PLC proudly appoints Ms Chonny James as the new Deputy Principal. Ms James, a dedicated educator with a rich history at PLC, began her journey in 2000 as a part-time Physical Education teacher.

Over the years, her unwavering dedication and leadership have propelled her through various roles, from Head of Physical Education to the Director of Wellbeing in 2018.

In her most recent role as Director of Wellbeing, Ms James spearheaded the creation of the Lighthouse Assistants programme, fostering connections between the Lighthouse and Boarding House while empowering students to acquire new skills. Now, as Deputy

Principal, Ms James has extended her reach beyond wellbeing to whole school operations.

A notable aspect of Ms James’s transition to Deputy Principal is her immediate focus on supporting staff and enhancing operational efficiency. She has begun implementing new systems and processes to streamline operations, allowing staff more time to dedicate to their core strength – teaching. Ms James’s dedication to creating an environment that enables educators to excel underscores her understanding of the pivotal role they play in shaping students’ lives.

“Being appointed Deputy Principal has been a terrific opportunity to extend and stretch beyond my comfort zone,” Ms James remarked. Her enthusiasm for embracing challenges reflects a commitment to continuous growth and innovation within PLC. As Ms James takes on this role, the PLC community looks forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly make in shaping the future of the College and its students.

Founders’ Day Service & Luncheon

PLC celebrated 108 years of inspiring women at this year’s Founders’ Day Service and Luncheon in August.

Guest speaker and Old Collegian, the Hon June Craig AM (Lynn 1947), attended with her great granddaughter, Rhea Kostarelas (Year 5), who helped her cut the College’s

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birthday cake to mark the occasion.

At the completion of the service, Mrs Chris Robinson presented a book to the College and was celebrated with a student and staff guard of honour to mark her retirement after 36 years of service. Staff and students wore green ribbons in their hair to represent Mrs Robinson’s House, Stewart.

The service was followed by a lovely Founders’ Day Lunch with over 96 Old Collegians attending – the largest attendance yet.

Reunion groups Class of 1963, Class of 1958, and Class of 1953 also celebrated their 60, 65, and 70-year reunions at the luncheon, followed by a tour of the new award-winning music building.

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Father Daughter Dinner Dance Mother Daughter Afternoon Tea

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Open Garden Day Celebrates 25 Years

The sun was shining and people came in their droves to PLC’s 25th Open Garden Day. This annual event brought together students, staff, and the wider community to exhibit the beauty of local gardens as they blossomed in spring and, showcased the PLC community spirit and talents.

including the Deci-Belles Choir, Guitar Ensemble, String Quintets, and several solo vocalists. The PLC Pipe Band once again was a show-stopper with the band performing a repertoire of traditional and reimagined rock classics at the top of View Street.

One of the many highlights of the day was the choreographed dance performances by 20 students from the Gorna Liyarn programme. These students from Years 7 to 11 brought Indigenous culture and artistry to the event.

Historic buses provided by the Bus Preservation Society of WA shuttled visitors between the beautiful gardens generously opened to the public by local residents. Visitors enjoyed the vibrant market stalls that lined the closed-off View Street and the student’s Creative Arts and Technologies Exhibition.

Musical talents were also on full display, featuring a number of PLC ensembles

Principal, Ms Cate Begbie, expressed her delight, stating,

“Open Garden Day is a highlight of the PLC calendar where we see our school community come together to share this amazing day with visitors from far and wide.”

The event’s success was attributed to the generous support of the garden owners and PLC community, including the countless parent and student volunteers, and staff members who dedicate their time and effort to making Open Garden Day such an amazing community event.

Celebrating the Arts with Grandparents & Special Friends In a tradition now in its second year, the Junior School Arts Day was fused with Grandparents Day in a captivating blend of creativity while creating special family memories. The Junior School was delighted to welcome not only parents but also cherished grandparents and special friends for arguably the best day in the Junior School calendar.

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The festivities commenced with an assembly that left the audience enthralled, featuring captivating musical and theatrical performances.

The Junior School was transformed into an exhibition space showcasing the artistic flair of every student from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6.

Stepping into the classrooms, visitors were met with an assortment of activities, from individual musical renditions to engaging creative pursuits and classroom performances.

Following a morning tea, it was time for the highly anticipated Inter-House Singing Showcase. This competition, akin to House Choir on Senior School

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Arts Day, saw each House unleash its musical prowess, offering their own unique twist.

A noteworthy aspect of this year’s event was the involvement of Year 9 students who, for many Houses, took up the role of conductors. Baird House

was declared the winner, leaving the audience in awe with their rendition of Octopus’s Garden by The Beatles.

Valedictory Service

Watch the highlights

Congratulations to the Class of 2023 who were farewelled at their Valedictory Service in October.

forward. I hope we have helped build in you the self-belief that you can do this.”

Principal, Ms Cate Begbie shared that almost exactly one year ago at their Induction Service for Student Officials, she read a quote from Dr Goodall, “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” She continued, “You’ve not only excelled personally and academically, but also as role models for our school and our community.” Ms Begbie spoke of how, like Dr Goodall, this class chose to time and time again “do the hard thing”. She implored this graduating cohort to continue facing challenges head on as these hard things may become their greatest successes.

Congratulations to Lucinda Egan who was awarded the Principal’s Citizenship Pocket. This award recognises a student who was not a member of the Student Council, made a difference to the richness of school life, demonstrated exemplary dress and behaviour, participated fully in school life, represented the students or school at decision-making forums, and consistently achieved academic results that reflect their personal best.

“I also encourage you to not wait for opportunities to knock.

Build the door yourself. In every challenge, see the opportunity. In every set back see the strength to move

Eliza Donaldson, Head Prefect of 2018, shared her words of wisdom in the lead up to their exams and urged students to “squeeze out every ounce of fun as things like Arts Day and swimming at the beach in your school uniform do not come around very often.”

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Speech Night

Embracing Sustainable Education.

A Journey to Green School Bali

By Aleasha Franetovich, Year 5 Teacher The opportunity to attend a professional learning experience at the Green School in Bali went from dream to reality for me in May this year. Cocktails, sunshine, pools, and sunsets… well not exactly, more like mosquito nets, composting toilets, bamboo bunk beds, and an

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eco-pool (pond) complete with bugs, mud, and frogs. Four staff members from vastly different departments, who barely knew each other, thrown in with another 35 participants from around the world for eight, very full, twelve-hour days of living and breathing sustainable practices and understanding the Green School way.

The campus covers hectares of wild jungle alongside the beautiful Ayung river in Ubud. The school is made of soaring bamboo structures and every classroom is different, but all are wallless. Whiteboards are recycled car windscreens, and tyres are used for swings, furniture, and stairways.

Chickens, rabbits, pigs, dogs, and cows are not additions to the campus, rather

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essential elements of learning and part of the community. The school oval boasts a huge stage that doubles as a live music room with drumming lessons echoing throughout the campus.

Green School Bali started as a dream and is now a growing community of learners with a passion to make our world sustainable. Their holistic, studentguided approach inspires and empowers students to be changemakers. Their living curriculum educates for sustainability through community-integrated, entrepreneurial learning, in a natural environment. Green School is striving to champion a model of education that nurtures the whole child, giving them agency in their own lives and learning, so they can thrive with purpose in our ever-changing world. It was heartening to see this philosophy was not unlike the teaching at PLC and their Green School Curriculum had many shared principles with our own PYP IB curriculum, where inquiry-based learning is student-centred and transdisciplinary.

Although having wall-less bamboo classrooms is not practical for PLC, the campus of Green School is not just about the structures. Their wall-less philosophy stands for much more and metaphorically suggests we can work towards breaking down walls created by a conventional education system. A

Primary classroom

Classroom

system that values grades over life experience; knowing the answers over challenging information and finding solutions; a linear school-centred approach rather than a divergent, community-centred one, and rigid structure rather than flexibility.

On top of the cultural immersions of music and dance, participation in ceremonies, art practices, nature walks, and student presentations, we had 23 ‘lessons’ of our own during the week. The experiences for us included learning about transformative education, the importance of mindfulness, community integration, unbundling the secrets of nature, understanding biomimicry, green studies, community celebrations, project-based learning, engaging parents into the learning, moving from biophobia to biophilia, integrated learning opportunities, composting workshops, community cooking, and plenty of daily reflection and feedback.

Being a student again was a reminder of the need to get up and move! It also highlighted the importance of being an active contributor, to question your own and others’ thinking, to share openly without judgement, to remain open minded and to celebrate and be respectful of cultural and individual differences. The learning was intense, the takeaways huge, and the experience life altering.

To thrive in a world that is changing exponentially, we need education to inspire students to innovate, find purpose, and love learning. At Green School, they refer to the need to “bend like bamboo”. Flexibility, open mindedness, and adaptability are the skills our students need to survive today and to thrive tomorrow. And sustainable living must be at the heart of this.

Sal Gordon, Principal of Green School, says outright that the point of education is to make the world a better place. Sal accepts the school’s mission – ‘A community of learners making the world sustainable’ – is a big call. However, after my time in Bali, I understand the need for this to be a collective goal. Ultimately, we all need to do better.

Becoming a part of this community of learners did not end on my return to Perth.

I feel wholeheartedly that I can make a difference and impart new knowledge to my community. The opportunity to attend the course has been truly life changing and has inspired me to grow as an individual and as an educator. I thank Principal Ms Cate Begbie and the PLC Council for making this opportunity possible and I look forward to sharing new initiatives.

Yurt – Accommodation for the four of us for eight nights.

The stage for music lessons.

The sports centre.

The pool to combat humidity after a long day of learning.

Jalan-Jalan – community walks/activities. Collecting rubbish in the mangroves.

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Empowering Tomorrow’s Innovators Through Science

In celebration of National Science Week, the Junior School held their annual Festival of Science. This year, the theme that lit up classrooms was Powering Future Industries Through Innovation.

The chosen theme bore significant relevance to society, underscoring how innovation serves as the driving force behind economic growth, sustainability, and progress. As educators, it is a duty and privilege to instill inspiration and empowerment in the budding innovators of tomorrow who will go on to shape the world and steer the course of future industries.

The dedicated Junior School staff were equally thrilled about this event, and the enthusiastic participation of numerous parent volunteers made the day even more special.

This immersive experience brought together students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6, engaging them in a diverse array of hands-on activities and exhilarating experiments.

Thanks to the generous support of PLC Parents, the Junior School was able to procure a remarkable assortment of STEM resources, including AR Merge Cubes and SPIKE Lego Prime, which added a new dimension to the learning adventure.

Fostering girls’ active involvement in scientific exploration is not only essential for dismantling gender stereotypes but also for nurturing self-confidence and cultivating critical thinking abilities. By igniting their passion for STEM subjects, PLC actively contributes to broadening perspectives in these fields and equipping students with the tools they need to seize future opportunities.

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Gabrielle Wang Australian Children’s Laureate 2022-2023 During Term 3, students from Years 3, 4, and 6 were fortunate to hear from Australian Children’s Laureate 2022-2023, Gabrielle Wang. Ms Wang is an author and illustrator whose stories blend Chinese and Western culture with a touch of fantasy.

She spoke to the girls about what inspired her, how she began writing and drawing, and the importance of creative thinking and imagination. She concluded the session with a fun drawing exercise for both students and staff.

“As the seventh Australian Children’s Laureate, my theme is Imagine a Story. I believe that it is important to regularly use your imagination by reading, writing, and drawing stories,” Ms Wang said.

“Reading stories about diverse characters by diverse authors helps you understand different people and cultures in our community.”

Inquiry Learning in Action During early Term 3, the Year 3 cohort represented PLC at the WA State Library for the Association of Independent Schools of WA (AISWA) Purposeful Pedagogies Showcase Day. The students explored the inquiry question,

“How might we

develop a stronger understanding and appreciation of Noongar culture and connection to country?”

Working within the International Baccalaureate framework of the Primary Years Programme, teachers took a transdisciplinary approach to the learning of Noongar culture and connection to Country.

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The Year 3 teachers planned and worked closely with the Art and Music Specialist teachers to provide rich and varied learning engagements. This helped students to appreciate the Aboriginal Peoples’ connection to Country and they began to understand why the natural environment holds importance to Aboriginal people and more specifically to the Noongar people, as PLC is on Noongar land. The students have been able to build a deeper appreciation of Aboriginal Peoples’ culture throughout this inquiry process.

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Future Problem Solvers Qualify for American Grand Final FPS is a research-based academic programme that teaches problem-solving strategies, collaboration, critical and creative thinking, and effective communication. The interdisciplinary approach, which is also the foundation of PLC’s Primary Years Programme, prepares students for future challenges and equips them with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

PLC’s Years 5 and 6 Future Problem Solvers (FPS) placed 4th at the National Finals in Brisbane on Saturday 14 October booking their ticket to the Grand Final in the USA. PLC was the only all-girls junior team from WA who qualified to compete.

Georgia Day (Year 5), Eva Bruna Lalic (Year 5), Amy Huang (Year 6), and Sophie Landau (Year 6) travelled to the competition in Brisbane with Gifted and Talented Co-ordinator, Ms Michelle Clayton, and Junior School Pastoral and Academic Co-ordinator, Mrs Jennifer Rickwood. The girls were judged on their creativity, originality, and the feasibility of their ideas, and came away with 4th place in the Junior Division.

This amazing achievement means that the girls have now been invited to compete at the FPSPI International Conference in the USA in 2024.

Jess Wins Academic Excellence Award Jessica Wolf received the Overall Academic Excellence Award at the MADALAH and Future Footprints Year 12 Graduation Evening in September.

Year 12 students Kalani Buckle, Imogen Famlonga, Lomasey Mongoo, Laynee Bateman (absent), and Florence Wolf were all invited to attend the Graduation and Awards Ceremony at which Jessica received her award for academics. This is one of the four categories awarded on the evening, the others are Sport, Service and Leadership and Entertainment and The Arts.

MADALAH and AISWA’s Future Footprints’ strategic alliance aims to support Indigenous students attending independent schools. They seek to improve educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and enhance their opportunities post-school to further education, training, and/or employment.

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Music Building Wins Award During the July school holidays at the Master Builders Association Excellence in Construction Awards, PLC’s state-of-the-art music building was awarded ‘Best Education Building’.

These awards are very highly regarded in the construction industry and the win is a testament to Cooktown, the College, and the entire project team.

Students Perform When The Stakes Are High Alice McClellan, Ava Murphy and Claire Dean (Year 12) competed in the Titration Stakes. The competition tests the practical skills of performing a titration, and the accuracy contestants can maintain within the allocated 1.5 hours.

PLC placed in the top 50%, with Alice achieving a High Distinction. Ava and Claire achieved High Participation.

Eleanor’s Writing Award Congratulations to Eleanor Kerr (Year 8) for being awarded 2nd place in the Lower Secondary category of the Craig Silvey Award for Young Writers.

There were over 800 entries for the competition, and Eleanor wrote her story under timed conditions as part of a school assessment.

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PLC Wins RAC Imagine Programme Year 5 students Ava Jefferys, Georgia Day, Eva Bruna Lalic, Hannah Lemin, and Dinuli Kariyakarawana have won first place in the prestigious RAC Imagine Programme – Future’s Challenge.

The announcement was made at the awards breakfast on Wednesday 1 November at UWA, following a semesterlong intensive programme which commenced in July with a full-day hackathon excursion at RAC Arena. 25 schools and over 130 students competed in the inaugural challenge to design a transportation fleet and transportation hub for 2030.

The girls then participated in a term-long project-based learning experience via virtual master classes working with futurists and expert members from the PLC learning community. Our students worked together in teams to create innovative community-based initiatives that focussed on how people moved around Perth city.

Their mission was to enhance their local community with innovative transportation aiming to create a safer, more sustainable, and connected forward-thinking city.

The RAC Imagine Programme is a primary school initiative giving students the opportunity to discover past and future technologies and learn about the changing nature of transport, mobility, and road safety, whilst addressing

aspects of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) and HASS subjects (Humanities and Social Sciences).

After weeks of researching, field visits, problem-solving and creative thinking, the students designed their transport hub which connected Perth to Fremantle and down to Mandurah using energy efficient technology for the year 2030. They created a video, pitching their ideas to a panel of judges from RAC. After months of work, the College was thrilled to see the team win first prize in this competition.

Head of Junior School, Mrs Geraldine Drabble, said,

“This challenge provided our Year 5 students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in a project addressing crucial real-world problems. This aligns seamlessly with our educational approach at PLC within the framework of the IB Primary Years Programme.”

“It has proven to be an incredibly motivating and compelling experience, empowering our girls to take charge of their learning, and developing a profound sense of purpose. Our students have truly taken the lead in their educational journey,”

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Izzy Scott: From School Pool to Stanford In the world of water polo, one PLC student has been making waves. Izzy Scott (Year 12) has accepted an early offer into Stanford University via the athlete pathway, made possible by studying the International Baccalaureate Diploma.

Last year, during Year 11, Izzy took a bold step. She reached out to the coaches of two prestigious universities, Stanford and Harvard, and shared her gameplay footage.

As Year 12 commenced, Izzy flew to the US to meet with the coaches, and once again presented them with current gameplay highlights. These visits included campus tours, meetings with athletes, and sitting in on classes. John Tanner, the coach of Stanford’s water polo team, was notably impressed by Izzy’s dedication and progress. He observed the significant improvement in her gameplay over the course of a year, reinforcing his belief in her potential. Meeting her in person, he was equally convinced of

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her compatibility with the team’s culture. Izzy’s early outreach in Year 11 allowed Tanner ample time to get to know her, ultimately playing a crucial role in her acceptance.

Both Harvard and Stanford vied for Izzy as their top recruit. It was a difficult choice for her to make, but one of the factors that swayed her decision was the reputation of Stanford’s water polo coach, John Tanner, as a world-renowned elite coach. The university’s outstanding team culture and its global academic reputation further solidified her choice.

Once Tanner expressed his desire to have Izzy on his team, the formalities followed. She submitted her school transcript, which was reviewed by the admissions team to ensure it met the university’s high standards. Her application included numerous short essays and long-answer questions.

Two weeks later, the good news arrived ¬– Izzy had been accepted to Stanford University.

Izzy also credits the fact that she studied the International

Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB) as one of the reasons why these universities were so keen for her to join their teams. The IB is an internationally-recognised pathway and being able to compare her IB marks helped Stanford assess if her marks were of high enough standard – simply being a good athlete is not enough at Stanford.

“They take the academic side of things very seriously and they also loved that I was a debater and Debating/Public Speaking Captain, amongst other things,” reflected Izzy.

“I would have loved to attend Harvard, where my brother currently studies,” Izzy remarked, “but I believe that under John Turner’s coaching and Stanford’s education, I will become not only the best athlete I can be but the best person I can be,” Izzy said.

Izzy’s journey to Stanford will commence in September next year where she will be the first Australian water polo athlete to join Stanford’s water polo team.

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Students Write Book in a Day PLC’s Year 10 team has been crowned as the national winner of Best Book in the Upper School Division for the Write a Book in a Day 2023 competition for the second year in a row. Last year, competing in a Year 9 team, Edith Hellings, Kaitlin Sin, Emma Ryan, Kiara Stofberg, Rosie Greenaway, Isla Mannolini, and Livya Siford also took out the top prize.

1,939 teams from around the country entered the competition which requires each team to write and illustrate a novel in just 12 hours.

Their book titled Hickory Dickory Dock - The Land Inside the Clock was created in record time on the PLC campus in late August.

“This team is nearly the same team as we’ve had since Year 7 and we have enjoyed seeing our ideas grow each year,” Kaitlin said.

PLC’s Year 11 team also enjoyed success this year with their book titled Schemes n’Dreams with a Highly Commended award for the Best Book Upper School category.

Students Milly Wallis-Hughes, Meika Garbutt, Maddy Mayo, Fiona Tan, Katie Lovegrove, and Annabel Antunovich explored family relationships through an Australian point of view in their novel.

Ms Lauren Sutherland, Assistant Head of English was incredibly proud of both team’s achievements in arguably one of the most gruelling English competitions in the country.

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Dance Accolades Dancing Championships in Dunoon.

She returned home with a collection of top six finishes and prizes.

Charlotte’s Irish Dancing Success Congratulations to Charlotte Langford (Year 7) for placing 2nd in the Australian Irish Dancing National Championships 2023 held at Olympic Park, Sydney.

She won the highest place in WA, out of a field of 50 qualifying competitors from all states of Australia. She also won the Three Hand Ceili out of a field of 30 teams from all over the country.

Get the Beat National Finals Phoebe Chee (Year 5), Amelia Falconer (Year 7), India Barrie (Year 7), and Sami Chee (Year 7) represented Silhouette Dance Studios at the Get the Beat National Finals in Caloundra, Queensland.

Tessa Goes International Celebrating the latest chapter of success in Scotland, Tessa Van Bueren (Year 11) showcased her exceptional talent amidst a global gathering of highland dancers. Tessa danced at multiple Highland Games including Crieff, Stirling, and Perth. She also danced at the prestigious British Open Championships in Edinburgh and the esteemed World Highland

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Phoebe, Amelia, India, and Sami placed Runner-Up National Champions for the U15 Classical Troupe and the U15 Contemporary Troupe.

Sami won National Champion in the U11 Classical Ballet and placed 3rd in the U11 Demi Character.

Azura Koren (Year 5) and Ocean Koren (Year 8) represented MSJ Productions at the Get the Beat National Finals in Caloundra, Queensland. Azura placed 4th National Champion in Song and

Dance. Ocean placed 1st and declared National Champion in both the U15 Tap Troupe and U15 Hip Hop Troupe. She also received 3rd overall for her Musical Theatre Solo.

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Every year, the English Teachers Associations WA publish Primo Lux, an anthropology of student poetry. To be selected, students from Years 10 to 12 must submit their poems by July.

PLC’s Primo Poets

This year, a staggering five students had their poems selected for publishing. Congratulations to Lottie Dowling Year 10, Emma Day (Year 11), Zoe Michea-Palmer (Year 11), Adison Martin (Year 11), and Portia James Wallace (Year 11).

Years 8 & 9 Have Sum Fun In Term 3, many talented Years 8 and 9 mathematicians took part in the Have Sum Fun online competition.

Congratulations to Tara Swingler (Year 9), Carys Hawkins (Year 9), Isobel Barker (Year 9), and Sana Burt (Year 9) on coming 1st against several other schools in WA.

PLC Shines in Humanities

This year, PLC had more than 50 students compete in the Australian Geography and Australian History Competitions.

Poppy Mahon was awarded this year’s State Medallist for Year 8.

Congratulations to Josie Ferraris (Year 9), Emma Ryan (Year 10), and Vicky Wei (Year 10) for their achievement of a High Distinction in the Australian Geography Competition.

Hannah Regli (Year 7) placed in the top 1% nationally.

Congratulations to Elizabeth Webb and Mbakaya Mfune (Year 9) for their High Distinction in the Australian History Competition.

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Pipe Band Compete at Championships

A large contingent from PLC’s Pipe Band competed at the Perth Bagpiper Solo Championships over the July school holidays.

The event was held at the Fremantle Sailing Club with many PLC students featured in the prize list. This is a huge credit to the hard work they have been

Bagpipes

Drumming

Juvenile Grade Piping

Novice Snare

Novice Tenor

D Grade Tenor

» Katy Lovegrove Year 11 | 3rd place

» Celia Rosser Year 9 | 2nd place

» Anaya Hapuarachchi Year 4 | 1st place

» Emily Hair Year 10 | 1st place

D Grade Piping

D Grade Snare

» Isabella Roberts Year 8 | 2nd place

» Indiana Silbert Year 12 | 2nd place

» Alice McLellan Year 12 | 1st place

» Tessa Van Bueren Year 11 | 2nd place

» Milly Roberts Year 12 | 4th place

» Georgia Fleay Year 10 | 3rd place

putting in – especially considering it was the first contest for many of these students. Congratulations to the following:

Arts Day 2023 This year marked the 49th anniversary of what is affectionately known as “the Best Day of the Year”, Arts Day. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as students and staff eagerly awaited the spectacular displays of talent and creativity.

One of the many highlights of the day was the PLC Staff Act and, once again, the PLC staff did not disappoint. Special kudos went to ‘Ken’ aka Mr de Graaf for his unwavering commitment to his character, leaving the audience in stitches.

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The Year 12 Act, Boarders’ Dance, and House Dances dazzled everyone, turning the event into a visual feast for the eyes. As always, the day was a wonderful display of Visual Arts, Music, Textiles, Cookery, Dance, Woodwork, and Drama.

The Creative Arts display and cakes competition was, yet again, incredible with a strong Barbie theme prevalent in this year’s entries.

Congratulations to Baird House for securing the House Dance title, and to Ferguson House for claiming the House Choir and overall Champion House.

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From Doubts to Delight SpongeBob the Musical Witten by Molly Crawford (Year 11) who played the role of Sandy When we first heard that the senior production for 2023 would be SpongeBob the Musical, I’ll admit, it caught us off guard.

SpongeBob in a musical? It seemed like an odd match. Initially, some of us were even a bit worried about how it would turn out. Could a cartoon about a sea sponge really make a successful musical?

The catchy tunes and vibrant choreography quickly grew on us. What initially sounded strange turned into music that got stuck in our heads and dance moves that felt exciting to master. As we practised and rehearsed, we found ourselves getting more and more into the spirit of the show.

The cast came together as a tight-knit group. We shared laughs during rehearsals, struggled through challenging scenes, and celebrated small victories.

The friendships that developed were unexpected but invaluable.

When we finally stepped onto that stage for the first performance, any lingering doubts vanished. The energy of the audience, the excitement in the air, and the feeling of being part of something truly unique – it all clicked into place.

Looking back, SpongeBob the Musical wasn’t just a show. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected choices lead to the most unforgettable experiences.

A Harmonious Gift: PLC Acquires a C. Bechstein Piano In December, PLC will unveil the prestigious C. Bechstein Concert Grand Piano, generously gifted by an anonymous benefactor. This extraordinary donation, driven by a singular purpose to enhance the musical education of current and future students, marks the dawn of a new era in musical excellence at PLC. The journey to secure this world-class instrument commenced in the September school holidays when Dr Paul Tunzi AM and Mr Chris Goff, PLC’s Director of Music, went to Berlin to handpick the perfect piano. In the showroom, they had the privilege of playing numerous pianos before selecting ‘the one’ – a C. Bechstein Concert Grand Piano.

offered a glimpse into the passion of the craftsmen dedicated to bringing Bechstein pianos to life.

What sets Bechstein pianos apart? Beyond the understanding of seasoned musicians, the appeal lies in their exceptional tonal quality, warm and resonant sound, and an expansive yet precise dynamic range. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the C. Bechstein Concert D282, in particular, boasts incredible dynamics, a rich timbre, and a touch that is both rapid and finely controlled.

Piano students of all ages will have the privilege of performing on this instrument. PLC will proudly stand as the sole institution in WA where students can rehearse and perform on a C. Bechstein instrument of this calibre, elevating the College’s musical legacy and enriching the lives of students for years to come.

Guided by Head Technician Torben Garlin, they delved into the intricacies of the piano’s construction, the art of tuning, and the enchantment behind the Bechstein sound. A visit to the Bechstein factory in the German village of Seifhennersdorf L E A R N I N G TA K E S M A N Y PAT H S PAGE 30

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Sport Report

By Mr Sam Maxwell, Head of Sport As we celebrate accomplishments of our sporting teams right across the college, it is equally inspiring to witness the incredible enthusiasm and increasing participation levels in a wide range of sports. From emerging athletes to experienced competitors, PLC has created an inclusive environment in which all girls can thrive in whatever sport they choose.

Mr Ben Matheson and Mr Zac Mowat have been instrumental in the Junior School in facilitating both lunchtime sport games for all girls and a morning fundamental movement and motor skills programme for our Early Years students. These activities have not only energised our students but have also instilled a lasting love for and sense of the importance of physical activity among our youngest learners.

All Years 3 to 6 girls have had the opportunity to learn how to sail; they learned to read the weather, the safety elements on the water, knot tying, manoeuvring the boat , and tacking.

At the end of Term 3, PLC’s AFL team won the prestigious Dockers Cup, a state-wide football competition. Down by 15 points with eight minutes remaining, PLC made a comeback to draw level at full time. A goal kicked by Lola Angus in extra time was enough to secure the title for PLC! On the back of the success and profile of the Matildas during the recent soccer World Cup, PLC fielded seven teams in Senior School IGSSA soccer, the most of any participating school. PLC was the winning school in the Year 7/8 B, 7/8 C and Year 9/10 B grades.

PLC again continued its dominance of IGSSA Rowing, winning the Overall Champion School for an 11th straight year, and the Head of the River First VIII title for the 8th year in a row.

One of the biggest successes this year was the Years 9 and 10 Badminton teams. Every team in divisions A, B, C, and D won their respective IGSSA event.

While our Junior School Netball and Basketball programmes continued to grow in numbers, our Senior School Senior A Basketball team won the pennant for the second year in a row. Coached by former Perth Wildcat and ex-American pro Mike Vigor, this group of girls has gone through the last two years undefeated, a significant achievement in itself.

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State and National Achievements selected to compete in the WA team for the National Indigenous Basketball Australia Tournament (NIBT) in September in Brisbane.

AFL IGSSA All Stars In Term 3, Bec Anderson (Year 12), Bella Birch (Year 10), Jessie McCarthy (Year 9), Mia Reidy (Year 10), and Ella Slocombe (Year 12) were selected to play for IGGSA in the AFL All Stars competition. IGSSA lost by two points to ACC but beat SSWA by 43 points.

Higgins’ Cross Country Success Sophie Higgins (Year 5) was selected to represent WA in the 2023 Cross Country Championship in Canberra in August.

Congratulations to Ella Slocombe (Year 12), who was named the overall MVP for the IGSSA team and won the Coach’s Award.

Hutton’s Basketball Success In the July school holidays, Libby Hutton (Year 12) competed in an international basketball tournament with her team, the AUSA Hoops, in Kentucky. She competed in a Finals, Championship and Classic tournament.

Monique Mouda-Hughes (Year 11) was

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Saskia Lehmann (Year 8) and Arabella Handley (Year 8) were successful in their campaign representing WA in the International Singapore Floorball Open.

They won the U15 division bringing home the Championship Cup in the July school holidays. Tilly Burton (Year 10) represented WA in the U21 and Annika Hofman (Year 12) competed in the Open Women’s division.

Whyte Wins Gold at Cross Country Nationals Scarlett Whyte (Year 9) delivered an impressive result at the School Sport Australia National Championships in Canberra in August. Her U16 WA team won gold in the Relay event. This result was further to her placing 14th place in the individual event.

Isobel Heads to Equestrian Champs

Monique Represents WA in Basketball

Girls Take Home Championship Cup

Isobel Egan (Year 10) has been selected to represent WA at the 2023 Australian InterSchool Equestrian Championships in Victoria later this year. Isobel has qualified for the 90cm and 100cm show jumping classes.

Burton Reserve for National Floorball Team Tilly Burton (Year 10) has been selected as a train-on reserve for the Women’s Open Australian Floorball Team for the 2023 Women’s World Floorball Championships to be held in December in Singapore.

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Scarlett has been selected to represent WA in the National All School Championships in December. Her race times have now also qualified her for the Australian Track and Field Championships in April 2024.

Hockey Honours Sophia McManus (Year 7) and Liv Bell (Year 7) were selected for the WA U13 State Hockey Team, which competed at the 2023 Hockey Australia U13 Carnival in September. They finished in 5th place Estella Weir (Year 12), Alex Enslin (Year 11), and Ruby Bell (Year 10) competed in the Hockey Australia U18 Championships which were held in Hobart in July. The WA team came away with a bronze medal.

Eliza Takes Home Bronze Eliza Wood (Year 10) also competed at the WA All Schools Championships and won a bronze medal in the U17 female 400m.

She has also been selected to represent WA in the National All School Championships in December as well as the Australian Track and Field Championships in April 2024 in Adelaide.

Hannah Selected to Represent WA Hannah Reynolds (Year 10) was selected to represent WA in the U16 State Football Team at the National Youth Championships held in Wollongong in October. The team lost to NSW Metro in the semi-final.

Patterson Selected for Youth Squad Commonwealth Youth Medals Inez Miller (Year 11) won gold in the 200m and 400m freestyle events, and gold in the 4x200m freestyle relay. She has also achieved a silver medal in the 100m freestyle, and bronzes in the mixed 4x100m freestyle relay, mixed 4x100m medley relay, and 50m freestyle.

Triathlon WA selected Dempsey Patterson (Year 7) in their Youth Squad. She will be competing for the UWA Triathlon Club.

Making a Splash in Water Polo Izzy Scott (Year 12) has been selected for the Australian U18 Squad, the WA U17 State Team, and the U19 State Team.

Katie Marris (Year 12) was also selected for the U17 State team competing in December at the National State Water Polo Championships.

Polocrosse Stars Scarlett Qualifies for Championships

Zara Ryan (Year 11) will represent WA in the Junior Girl (U16) state polocrosse team at the Australian Polocrosse Nationals in June 2024.

Scarlett Whyte (Year 9) represented PLC in the WA All Schools Championships this year. She placed 2nd in the U15 - U18 3,000m, 2nd in the U16 800m, and 3rd in the U16 - U19 1,500m.

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Boarders’ Retreat and Farewell

By Emma Wilkinson, Year 12 The Boarders’ Retreat at the end of August was hosted by my family on our farm. We live about 200km east of Perth, near Corrigin. I loved every part of it, including the set up, organising all the food, and showing everyone around the farm.

We got to our place and took part in painting a dead tree blue for the Blue Tree Project. The tree was located on the side of the road on the turnoff into the CBH bins so all the trucks driving past will be able to see it. CBH stands for

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Co-operative Bulk Handling which is where all the grain gets delivered and stored so the farmers can sell their grain.

Then we set up our swags in the shearing shed and I gave everyone a tour of the farm.

On Sunday night, we had the Boarders’ Farewell, which was quite emotional. I just couldn’t believe that it was my year to finish school, my year to leave the Boarding House, and my year to already be saying goodbye. Overall, it was a very sweet night filled with many memories, laughs, and tears.

It was so surreal that it was our time to say goodbye, especially my sister who will still be boarding next year.

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OCA Report – between the school, current students, Old Collegians, current parents, and past parents. We commenced initiatives to fortify these bonds in late 2023, with the ‘Parent Collegian’ keyring, presented at the Valedictory Dinner as a gift from the PLC Parents and the OCA to departing Year 12 parents.

It is with great enthusiasm and anticipation that I step into the role of President of the PLC Old Collegians’ Association. I am incredibly excited to embark on this journey and contribute to the rich legacy of our PLC community.

One of my primary goals is to foster and strengthen the connections that bind us

students and their families can anticipate receiving PLC-branded Bahen & Co. chocolate, co-founded by Jacqui Bahen (Goodridge 1999), along with We Are Feel Good Inc. sunscreen, co-founded by Sally McGregor (Legge 1985).

These meaningful gifts not only showcase the entrepreneurial spirit within our PLC community but also offer a warm welcome to those considering joining our school.

In partnership with Admissions at PLC, we collaborated to craft thoughtful promotional gifts for prospective families. In the future, incoming

Congratulations to our OCA Bursary Winners For over 60 years, the OCA has proudly been awarding scholarships and bursaries to PLC students. This year, we are delighted to share with you the 2024 bursary recipients.

Heartfelt congratulations to the three deserving awardees. We also want to extend our commendations to every accomplished young woman who applied. Your achievements reflect positively on you, your families, and PLC.

The Olive Cusack Bursary

OCA Inspiring Woman Recipient

Ruby Clifton | Year 8

Every year, through its OCA Inspiring Women’s Programme, the OCA Committee acknowledges and celebrates an exceptional Old Collegian who has excelled in their chosen field, career, or personal endeavours.

The Dr Vera Summers Bursary

Stella Wandel | Year 10 The Heather Barr Memorial Bursary

Ruby Crier | Year 11

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I eagerly anticipate an upcoming year that promises new and exhilarating experiences, including challenges, growth, and increased collaboration. My heartfelt appreciation goes out in advance to the dedicated members of my supporting committee; Natusha Wenn (Petrelis 1995), Leanne Ikin (Hatton 1979), Justine Cerini (1988), Jennie Deykin (Eastwood 1982), Jane Ann McLarty (Symington 1964), Devon Cuneo (Nankivell 1965), Zoe Burke (2021), Alexandra Easton (1987), Matija Franetovich (1995), and Sarah Fallon (1991).

Winks Shephard President Old Collegians’ Association

With great delight, in November we proudly announced Dr Belinda Hopper BSc BVMS (Hons) MVS FANZCVS (Radiology) as the distinguished recipient of the 2023 OCA Inspiring Woman Award.

Her outstanding achievements serve as an inspiration, embodying the spirit of accomplishment and dedication that the OCA Inspiring Women’s Programme aims to recognise and applaud.

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Tartan News Business Law and Accounting at UWA, Bryzlyn serves as the Youth and Community Assistant in Kalamunda, aspiring to inspire more youth to contribute to the community.

in November, PLC was thrilled to welcome special guests Sally Johnston and her brother Graham Johnston who brought their mother’s service medals.

Their mother was the late Nancy Johnson (Mercer 1937).

Nina Kennedy (2014) won gold at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, beating her own national record to clear 4.90m in the final. Nina shared gold with American Katie Moon.

Nina went onto clear 4.91 at the Diamond League meeting in Zurich.

Anni Fordham (1999) has received the prestigious Churchill Fellowship to investigate the provision of highly accessible information for those impacted by emergencies worldwide.

The Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to explore passion projects internationally.

Leon Pericles, a former parent, was appointed a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia in the 2023 King’s Birthday Honours, recognising his 55-year career in printmaking and significant contributions to the visual arts.

At the end of July, PLC enjoyed the company of distinguished UCL Economics Professor Wendy Carlin CBE (1974), PLC’s sole Rhodes Scholar, who visited from London. Pictured in front of the 1974 Dux Honour Board, where she’s listed, Wendy shares the board with her mother, Joan Carlin (Stewart 1948). Congratulations to Wendy on her recent election as a Fellow of the British Academy.

Bryzlyn Sin (2022) has been honoured as the 2023 Young Community Citizen of the Year for the City of Kalamunda. A gifted pianist, Bryzlyn is committed to philanthropy. While showcasing her talents globally, including at Carnegie Hall, she has raised $1.98 million for charity, to support students from low income families. Currently studying

Morven Johnston (2022) performed as a part of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Dancers in August in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Mia Gesterkamp (La Bree 1943) celebrated her 100th birthday in September in New Plymouth, New Zealand. Originally from Indonesia, Mia’s journey led her to PLC in 1939 during WWII. Unable to return home due to the war, Mia worked in Melbourne for her government. She met her Dutch husband in Brisbane, married in Indonesia in 1946, and later moved to New Zealand. Widowed in 2010, Mia’s story reconnected with PLC in 2014, and PLC marked her centenary with flowers (tulips, of course).

During the Remembrance Day Service O U R PA S T M OV E S U S FO R WA R D PAGE 38

Black Watch

Reunions

20 Year Reunion

50 Year Reunion

30 Year Reunion

Upcoming Confirmed Reunions for Semester 1 2024 Class of 1964 – 60 Year Reunion: Thursday 15 February Please contact oca@plc.wa.edu.au if you are from the Class of 1964 to ensure you are on the mailing list.

PLC Foundation Fond Farewells and Warm Welcomes In the second half of 2023, the Board farewelled three of its long-term Directors and welcomed four new Board members.

In June, the PLC Foundation bade farewell to Chair Yasmin Broughton and Treasurer Carlo Franchina.

Yasmin served for over five years, commencing as a Director and serving as

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Chair for three years from June 2020.

Carlo was on the Board for over eight years as a Director, serving as Treasurer and also sat on the Foundation’s Investment Committee since November 2020.

In November, we also farewelled James Mactier who served on the

Foundation Board for almost nine years, including as Chair of the Investment Committee from November 2020.

During Yasmin, Carlo, and James’ time on the Board, they oversaw the instigation of the Foundation’s PLC Student Hardship Campaign, raising money to support members of the

PLC.WA.EDU.AU

PLC community experiencing financial hardship during the pandemic. We thank them for their significant volunteer service and contribution to the PLC community.

Thompson (a Director since 2021) as Chair of the Foundation alongside four new Directors – Rosalind Potts, Chris Corbett, Brian Lynn, and Julia Schortinghuis.

The Foundation is delighted to welcome Alexandrea

The Foundation Board is excited to work with the

college to support its ambitious building and infrastructure aspirations and enhance the school community by making it possible for more girls to experience a life changing PLC education through the Foundation’s Scholarship and Bursary programme.

Foundation, its Board Members, and make a donation here

Western Rosellas A Colourful Legacy for PLC generously donated a captivating artwork, “Western Rosellas,” painted by the talented artist Pamela Walter in 2017. This acrylic on canvas is now proudly displayed outside the Director of Teaching and Learning, Mr Neil Walker’s office.

PLC received a vibrant gift in August that carries a poignant message about our responsibility to protect our native species.

Dr Barry Green, in loving memory of his wife Helen Green (Novakov 1961), has

The painting encapsulates both the historical and contemporary landscapes of WA. It invites viewers to step into the past, to an era when megafauna roamed the land. However, a poignant shift occurs in the painting’s narrative. The mega parrots which once ruled the skies (only as a possibility in the artist’s mind) are depicted in the background, now

extinct. It serves as a sobering reminder of the ecological challenges our planet has faced. Habitat loss and predation have taken their toll on our native species, pushing them towards the brink of extinction.

Pamela Walter does not leave us hopeless about the future of our environment. In the foreground, a diminishing flock of parrots signifies the loss of our native species, but amid them, a pair of realist Western Rosellas shine brightly. This pair represents hope, resilience, and the potential for positive change.

Foundation Thank You Donors 2023 Annual Giving Miss Wendy Addis (1954) Mr Irwin & Mrs Berwine Barrett-Lennard (Cook 1945) Sarah Basden Foundation (Manners 1984) Mr Charles & Mrs Liz Bolt (Pethick 1984) Mr Michael & Mrs Beverley Bowen Mr Craig & Mrs Katrina Burton (Fairweather 1982)

Hon June Craig AM (Lynn 1947)

Mr Andrew Hawley

Mr James & Mrs Cate Mactier

Ms Jo Cruickshank (1977)

Dr Kate Hadwen

Mrs Nanette Danks (Harvey 1959)

Mr Mark & Mrs Jemma Hector

Mrs Indira & Dr Dilum Madigasekara

Mrs Anne Kyle (Jago 1948)

Malka Foundation Pty Ltd

Mr Muin Qaqish & Mrs Evelyn Djauhari

Mrs Julia & Dr Ade Lambo

Mrs Elizabeth Manners-Sutton (Irving 1939)

Mr Grant & Mrs Cathy Donaldson Dr Keith Barker & Dr Anne Durack (1963) Miss Barbara Finch (1950) Ms Andrea Gillett (1980) Gilmac WA Pty Ltd

Mrs Julie Larkin (Sedgman 1951) Mrs Helen Lewis Mrs Rosalind Lilley Mrs Freda Livingston (Bunce 1949) Mrs Beverley Ludlow (Harrison 1956)

Mr Andrew & Mrs Cate McKenzie (England 1986) Mr Luke & Mrs Jane Miels (Cox 1984) Mrs Sue Monger (Mills 1949) Ms Suzanne Pelczar

O U R PA S T M OV E S U S FO R WA R D PAGE 40

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Ms Jenny Rankin

Mr Elliott & Mrs Jennie Carson

Mr Simon & Mrs Natalie Kelsall

Dr R M Serich & Dr Jenny Rogers (1972)

Dr Janez & Dr Shona Cernelc

Mr Toru Kojima & Mrs Ran Kim

Mr Jay & Dr Belinda Callaghan

Mr Matthew & Mrs Ellen Kimball

Mrs Glenice Shephard

Mr Ross & Mrs Laurette Challinger

Mr Pete & Mrs Rae Kirchner

Mrs Alison Sloper (Thomas 1960)

Mr Bernard & Mrs Meregene Chang

Mr Nicholas & Mrs Audrey Komajda

Dr Raphael & Mrs Emily Chee

Mr Wade & Mrs Kathleen Langford

Mr Kevin Somes & Mrs Jane Somes (Temperley 1962) Mrs Valerie Thompson (Gardiner 1956)

Mr Ronald Chamberlain & Mrs Alicia Choate

Mrs Betty Trotter (Gibbs 1939)

Dr Simon Hellings & Dr Anna Clare

Dr Richard Vaughan AM & Mrs Elizabeth Vaughan (Overton 1962) Mr Dong Chen & Ms Shirley Wang

Voluntary Contributions Mr Nicholas & Mrs Meliesse Agapitos (Palassis 2003) Mrs Samantha Bachofen von Echt

Mr Steve & Dr Deb Cohen-Jones

Dr Duc Vo & Mrs Ha Thi Le

Mr Sean & Mrs Jess Starkey

Mr Ben & Mrs Megan Collins

Mr Murray & Mrs Michelle Leahy

Department of Communities

Mr Adrian & Mrs Jackie Lee

Mr Jeff & Mrs Kate Stoney (Watts 1997)

Mr Edward & Mrs Kate Cox

Mr Nathan & Mrs Diana Leitch

Dr Jason Armstrong & Ms Madeleine Cox

Mr Geoffrey & Mrs Anne Lewis

Mr Duncan & Mrs Catherine Craib (Forbes 1993)

Mr Feng Yang & Ms Skye Liu

Mr William & Dr Dawn Barker

Mr Brad Williams & Ms Jenni Dakic Mr Adam & Mrs Marisa Davey Mr Rick Allen & Ms Danielle Daws

Mr Ruiming Yuan & Ms Amy Li Mr Darren Kefford & Mrs Natasha Low-Kefford Ms Kate Macgregor (1985) Dr Ashley Makepeace Mr Ashley Reichstein & Mrs Megan McDowall Mr Christopher & Mrs Angel McGonnell

Mr Ben & Dr Jane Day

Mr Marshall & Mrs Yasmin McKenna

Mr Manuel Gil Lopez & Mrs Maria del Valme Domenech Jimenez

Dr Tulsi Bisht & Ms Heather McLean

Mr Michael & Mrs Ella Dennis

Mr Justin & Mrs Amanda Mannolini

Mr Jason Wood & Ms Michelle Bennett (1990)

Mr Jonathan & Mrs Katrina Downes

Mr Paul and Mrs Sascha Bennett

Mr Robert Nakhoul & Ms Christina Eftos (1989)

Mr Andrew & Mrs Kayla Bourke

Mr Malcolm & Dr Amanda Smith

Mr Chad & Mrs Sarah Sounness

Dr Matt Greentree & Dr Jane Cunneen

Dr David Gillett & Ms Hayley Benbow

Dr Jeffrey & Mrs Sarah Smith

Mr Brian Lynn & Dr Jo Lazberger

Mr Andrew & Mrs Rebecca Banks

Mr Simon & Mrs Emma Bedbrook (Prowse 1994)

Mr Kerry Osling & Ms Rowena Smith (1984)

Dr Michael Lovegrove & Dr Sarah Smith (1989)

Mr James & Mrs Fiona Crisp (Amey 1990)

Mr Craig Pasch & Ms Shaan Beccarelli

Dr Romesh & Mrs Geetha Singam

Mr Travis Monson & Ms Aoife Lannon

Mr James & Mrs Vanessa Baker

Mr Kieran and Mrs Michelle Barrett (Wandel 1994)

Mr Hupeng Zhang & Ms Wenting Sheng

Mr Andreas Sadler & Miss Shona McIntyre Mr Grant & Mrs Tyneal Mete

Mr Richard Li & Mrs Wei Su Mr Jian Cui & Mrs Li Sun Mr Martin Brown & Dr Fiona Surveyor Mr Andrew & Mrs Hayley Tait Mr William & Mrs Kylie Telfer Mr Rob & Mrs Sam Terriaca Mr Peter Smith & Ms Alexandrea Thompson Dr Rohan vanden Driesen & Ms Astrid Timmers Mr Simon & Ms Fiona van den Berg Mr Andre & Mrs Michelle van Helvoort Mr Mark O’Malley & Ms Pip Van Helvoort Mr Peter (1993py) & Mrs Sarah Vaughan Mr Guy & Mrs Louisa Vincent Dr Ben & Dr Sarah Wade Mr Peter & Mrs Tanya Wall

Mr Nathan & Mrs Emma Falconer

Mr Scott & Mrs Lauren Mills

Mr Mick & Mrs Marnie Fels

Mr Tim Andrew & Ms Jane Moffat

Mr Dawson & Mrs Lisa Bradford (Jones 1991)

Mr Garry & Mrs Georgina Ford

Mr Leon & Mrs Julie Monaghan

Mr Ricky & Mrs Stacey Ford

Ms Leesha Monson

Ms Belinda Brooks

Mr Luke Forsyth

Mr James & Mrs Anita Moullin

Mr James & Mrs Kate Buchanan

Mr Stuart & Mrs Melissa Fraser

Mr Richard & Mrs Samantha Buchanan

Mr Takahisa & Mrs Yukiko Fukawa

Mr Gamada Agung & Mrs Nurshinta Ruswandani

Mr John & Mrs Angela Buckee

Mr Liang Qin & Mrs Ying Huang

Mr Bernard & Mrs Julia Schortinghuis (Osborne 1989)

Mr Anthony & Mrs Tanya Buckle

Mr James & Mrs Jenny Hunt

Mr Brian Scott

Mr Calvin Buckle

Mr Joel & Mrs Emma Ireland

Mr Rob & Mrs Liz Scott

Dr Jessica Bunning (1993)

Mr Jon & Mrs Candie Italiano

Mr Trent & Dr Lara Savage

Mr Rohen & Mrs Charmian Burton

Mr Andrew Cox & Ms Clancy Jarvis

Mr Yotaro & Mrs Mie Sekine

Mr Roy Gershow & Mrs Michelle Williams

Mr Phil & Mrs Leanne Jefferys

Mr Michael Hannam & Mrs Robyn Sermon (1990)

Miss Kobe Wu

Mr Kirk & Mrs Lisa Jeitz (Stone 1992)

Mr Nishshanka Udawattage & Mrs Npuni Shanthaweera

Mr Jian Hou & Ms Ivy Zhang

Mr David & Mrs Kristy Brackstone (Duckham 1996)

Mr Tim & Mrs Shae Butler Mr Mark & Mrs Delphine Calderwood Mr John Canaris

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Dr Ross & Dr Philippa Wallace Mr Nigel & Mrs Rachel Wallis Mr Scott & Mrs Jane Wandel (Murray 1997) Mr Zhiwei Zha & Mrs Chrystal Wang Mr Richard McGuire & Dr Samantha Weaver (1991) Mr Joshua & Mrs Lauren Welch Mr Adam Wellisch Mr Jonathon Whyte

Mr Yew Hee & Ms Yan Zeng Mr Jun Liu & Mrs Linda Zhang

PLC.WA.EDU.AU

From the Archives

Bet in 1982 (aged 75) skippering America’s Cup Challenger Gretel II in Shute Harbour, Queensland.

Courtesy Tim Baker.

Bet Easton with fiance Vivian Baker in November 1937, at Newdegate. Courtesy Tim Baker.

An incredible story about one woman’s love for her PLC blazer, came to light recently, through her grandson, Tim Baker, and we though you would enjoy reading about it as much as we enjoyed hearing it.

Jessie ‘Bet’ Baker (Easton 1924) came to PLC in 1923 for her last two years of schooling.

Among the uniform items her family bought for her was a blazer with the original PLC crest emblazoned on the pocket in PLC’s original colours of fawn, azure blue, and gold.

Warm, stylish, and functional, and Bet’s special fondness for that blazer meant it became an immediate solid wardrobe staple in her life.

In the Depression years, people ‘made do’, there was little waste in food or consumables, and clothing was functional before fashionable.

Bet East at PLC, 1923. Courtesy Tim Baker.

In November 1937, she became engaged for a second time, to Harrismith farmer Vivian Baker and, when they married in Victoria in 1938, she wore a stylish flowing, midlength dress with black and white heels … and her beloved PLC blazer.

Over the decades, that cherished blazer went everywhere with her - from her home in East Fremantle, to the family’s Newdegate farm, to her 1938 wedding in Victoria, to her farm in Harrismith, and eventually to her home in Mandurah.

She was also photographed in her blazer skippering America’s Cup challenger Gretel II, and a 1987 visit to the famous blacksmith’s forge in Gretna Green, Scotland, and, after she was widowed in 1988, her home in Mandurah.

Every member of her family knew of her love for her blazer, and her demonstration of its durability and comfort and, when she died on 6 December 2003 at the grand age of 96, they paid the ultimate tribute of burying her in it.

And so, in the mid-1930s Bet had her blazer tailored to a more shapely fit, added a crisp new trim, and replaced the original pocket with the new PLC crest in green, blue and white, which was launched in 1934. Years later, she removed the 1930s trim and swapped out the old, black, bakelite buttons for some smart, smaller, silver ones.

Bet had married in April 1931, to Peppermint Grove and Christ Church lad Wally Lodge, but was widowed when he died from appendicitis in November 1932, aged 25.

O U R PA S T M OV E S U S FO R WA R D PAGE 42

Black Watch

Recent Accessions Helen Keys (Venerys 1983) and Maggie Venerys (Clifton 1954) Kookaburra 1951 and 1952; Black Watch magazines, Sept 1972 and Aug 1975; PLC News, Apr 1972, Sept 1972 and Jul 1974; Schedule of Fees for 1972 and 1974; School Handbook 1972 (only one in the Collection); 1972 School Calendar for Second Term; PLC 1977 Cook Book (2); Speech Night Programmes for 1976 (2), 1979 and 1981; Cookaburra, produced by the PLC OCA in 2008; We Love Food, Healthy nutritious and simply delicious, produced by Year 6 Community Leaders in 2013; 1954, 60th Reunion booklet, 2014; Order of Service, Founders’ Day 2014; Parents’ Association invitation to Sundowner, February 1976; Notes for PLC Kindergarten, 1973; End of Term Notes, Dec 1971, May 1972, Dec 1972, Aug 1973, May 1974; Notice to parents of Grade 1 and 2 children, 1972; Canteen Roster for Term 2, 1972.

Lorraine Ardagh (Biggin 1973) Two school books once belonging to Lorraine’s great aunt Joyce Carter (1924): Thackeray’s Henry Esmond (1906), which Joyce used in Form VA; and Short Studies in English Literature No: IX; Pen Pictures from Macaulay (undated).

Sue Warburton (Chandler 1958) The Psalms and Church Hymnary, 1950s; A Pattern of Islands by Arthur Grimble (1954), presented to Sue for Profiency in Junior G Form, 1956; Desiree, by Annemarie Selinko (1954), presented to Sue for Proficiency in SL Commercial, 1957; 1950s Carmichael House badge; Enamelled tie pin; Hat band and hat pin; PLC blazer pocket.

Carol Dodson (1971) Class list for Year 3H, 1968; School Timetable for Year 3H, 1968; 4U, 1970; PLC War Cries for 1968 and c1970;

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1969, 1970 and 1971 Kookaburras; The Story of a School by Noel Whiteford (1975). Newspaper articles: Fashions in the World of School Girls, Daily News, 3 March 1970; College Extended, Daily News, 1972; Photo: Five PLC students spending 12 days in Singapore and Malaysia, accompanied by Mrs Mavis Adam (Maths teacher; Deputy Principal 1959-1971), 1970; America-bound, mentioning Jann Skinner as one of eight high school students leaving Perth to spend a year in the US under an exchange scheme, 1971. PLC News: April and June 1971; School Rules for 1969, 1970 and 1971; Speech Night Programmes for 1970 and 1971; Speech Night invitations for 1970 and 1971; Swimming Carnival Programmes for 1968 and 1970; 1971 Athletics Carnival Programme; Black Watch magazine Oct 1971; Principal’s Newsletter of 1 June 1971; Annual 4th Year 1970 Dance invitation.

Bill Evans, past parent, past Member of Council (1982-1984) Acton Consolidated brochure for the auction of 3A View Street, 1992; Newspaper article on the upcoming auction of 3A View Street, WAN 7 March 1992, ‘Master’s touch in an old house’; Copy of Certificate of Title for 3A View Street, 1967; Exhibition catalogue Marshall Clifton: The Art of Building, 1989; Original Marshall Waller Clifton architectural plans (undated but 1939) for converting Unalla’s stables into a residence, showing ground floor, first floor, front, back, north and south elevations; Original Lester, Younghusband and Associates architectural plans depicting reworking of new dining room, laundry and verandah, depicting ground floor floorplan, south and east elevations, 1986; Copy of section of architectural plans (1939) depicting existing building (to north), additions (to south) and this house’s position in respect to Unalla, undated. Various handwritten notes

surrounding; Metropolitan Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Dept Permit to Make Connection at 3A View Street, 1939; Letter from George H Long, Undersecretary of the Metropolitan Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Dept, sending the Departmental permit to William Evans, 1939; Metropolitan Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Dept Certificate for correct connection, 1939; Marshall Clifton receipt for £58 received from William Evans, representing 2/3 of cost of preparing plans, calling tenders and supervising erection of the home at 3A View Street, 1939. This is attached to Marshall Clifton’s letterhead (offices in CML Building); Invoice from Marshall Clifton to William Evans for £35 for professional services in preparing plans, calling tenders and supervising the erection of the home at 3A View Street, 1939

Chris Robinson (Textiles teacher 1988-2007; Head of Staff 20082023; Deputy Principal 20152023) Stewart House Captains’ Declaration Book (1981-1998) featuring signatures of Stewart House, Sports and Arts Captains. Features signatures of Stewart Seniors from 1986-1997 in the back.

Alison MacLaurin (Fan 1961) Alison’s ‘Houswifery Book’ for Domestic Science in 1958-1959 – an incredible time capsule of how the 1950s housewife aimed to fill her day!

Sally Simpson (Evans 1982) Items belonging to Sally’s mother, Susan Evans (Brearley 1955), dec, including 1954 Kookaburra and c1955 enamelled tie pin.

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Recent Accessions Unknown donor (brought to Reception) Robert Browning’s Works (1911), stamped with PLC Melbourne’s crest and with PLC Melbourne’s bookplate, presented to the 1919 Dux of School Miss Jean Randall (School Council, PLC Perth 1959-1985).

Helen McNeill (1972) Two photos of Gillian McNeill (1965) with her sisters Meredith Beck (McNeill 1969), Helen McNeill (1972) and Deirdre Worner (McNeill 1964), with Gill and Deirdre wearing the Black Watch tartan dress introduced in 1955 and scrapped in 1962; and Gillian and (her mother)

Ronda McNeill with (Ronda’s sister) Leta and (her daughter) Jan Lester (Glenister 1966).

Digital Accessions Kay Jamieson (1968) Five images of Kay from her days at School.

Merienne (formerly Joan) Scott (McKenzie 1960) Two photos of the 1960 Leaving Class on excursion to Point Peron.

PLC 1960 Leaving Class Geography Excursion to Point Peron with Miss Violet Major

Jo West and Patrick Cornish 1940s photo of Mary Winifred Crosson nee Leake (Resident Boarding House Mistress 1955-1965).

Ferguson House Captain Kay Jamieson (1968)

O U R PA S T M OV E S U S FO R WA R D PAGE 44

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In Memory Nanette ‘Nan’ Sounness (Tregonning 1966).

22 September 1949 – 13 October 2023

By Kate McKenzie (Sounness 1993) Nan was born in Adelaide, where her father Donald ‘Chip’ Tregonning was completing his medical training. Her mother Pat (nee Pearse) was a hairdresser and daughter of the Pearse Brothers’ Boot Factory family. Her father was awarded his medical qualifications on in December 1949 and the new family returned to Perth in time for Christmas, when Nan was three months old. Chip established his GP practice and, in time, four younger brothers arrived: Don, Bruce, Robert and Ian, all of whom came to PLC for Kindergarten.

Nan came to PLC in 1953, received several Commonwealth scholarships, and graduated in 1966. In 1970 she attained an Associateship in Pharmacy at WAIT (later Curtin University), receiving the Francis Hardy Faulding Memorial Award for Top Distinction in Pharmaceutical Chemistry III. During her years at WAIT, her classmate Susie Sounness introduced Nan to her brother Richard who was looking for a date for the Country Week Cricket dinner in Perth. In 1972 Richard and Nan married, and Nan started life on the farm at the foot of Bluff Knoll, next to the Stirling Ranges. She practiced pharmacy for a few years before and after marriage, but soon their children Brett, Kate McKenzie (Sounness 1993), Marcus and Heidi Sounness (1999) arrived, and travelling away from the farm became more difficult.

As the kids grew, Nan threw herself more into farm life. She was in charge of the cheque book and did all the farm bookwork.

She learnt to drive the truck and the chaser bin, and moved sheep from one end of the farm to the other, mostly on foot, while someone else drove the ute. She was an early adopter of technology, and sent multi-page faxes to her children at boarding school at PLC and Scotch College, and undertook computing courses to help her with the farm business and community work. Like most country women, Nan was an active volunteer for the primary school P&C and community sporting clubs, culminating in her role as Treasurer for the Emu Point Sporting Club, for which she was nominated for a Clubs WA award.

Her pharmacy training meant that the farmhouse was always stocked with Betadine, Ungvita and fluoride tablets. Her fire plan was to fill the bathtub early in case a water pump was burnt out.

She had an adventurous spirit and achieved feats of endurance such as climbing Dune 45 in Namibia, rafting down the mighty Zambezi River, cycling in America and New Zealand, navigating the track to Angel’s Landing, trekking

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down and up Fish River Canyon and the Grand Canyon and hiking and exploring all over Australia. She also followed her children to Europe and Japan and visited Susie in Singapore.

Nan’s family also ran the Stirling Range Caravan Park, and Richard often turned up with stray tourists who had arrived without enough food, promising them lamb roast. Many of these impromptu guests had interesting stories and included several scientists who came to study the national park. Of course, Nan had to execute most of Richard’s creative hospitality ideas, including occasional parties for the whole district.

First Marcus, and then later Heidi, came home to run the farm.

Brett became a radiologist in Queensland and Kate is now working at University of WA. They were all inspired by their smart, hardworking, try-her-hand-at-anything mother.

Nan never smoked, rarely drank, ate well, led an active life and only occasionally said “bother”, but cancer attacked her twice.

The first diagnosis accelerated retirement from the farm, first to Mira Mar and then to Emu Point, but this also meant Nan was closer to the ocean and enjoyed walks along the Albany Boardwalk or Emu Point to Middleton.

She loved spending time with her grandchildren Imogen, Lucinda, Beatrix, Michael, Matthew, Preston and Alba, building sandcastles, watching them play and cheering on their sporting and artistic achievements. She pretended to be stern when Heidi’s kelpie dog Maddy infiltrated the Emu Point house, but was caught frequently sneaking her pats and snacks.

Winters with Brett’s family in Burleigh Heads helped her to escape the Albany chill. She had amazing resilience and patience through everything she endured. Everyone who knew her saw her gentle nature, strength and kindness. She was part of the hidden backbone of the Australian agricultural community: A woman who gave everything, but felt that she had it all, because she was so loved.

Nanette Sounness (Tregonning 1966) at PLC Junior School, c1956.

PLC.WA.EDU.AU

Recent photo of Nanette Sounness (Tregonning 1966)

Verschuer, who was the younger brother of May Nash (Verschuer 1925) and Peter Verschuer, who nearly lost his own life trying so hard to rescue Stella Clarke.

Barney, a dentist, had his dental practice at Guildford, and Jean and Barney lived not too far away in Gooseberry Hill.

They were blessed with three children, and it was then, that Jean embarked on a new career in Landscape Architecture.

She studied horticulture and architectural subjects at Perth Technical College, then worked for several architectural practices before establishing her own private practice in Kalamunda.

Jean became part of a national group which, in the 1960s, established an Australian Institute of Landscape Architects, of which she was a founding member. She served on the Federal Council for ten years and was President from 1977 to 1979. In 1980, Jean was made a Fellow, and, in 1990, she was awarded the Institute’s Bicentennial Medal.

Lady Jean Brodie-Hall formerly Verschuer AM FAILA (Slatyer 1942) 15 August 1925 – 24 June 2023 Jean was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, the third of five children of Thomas Henry Slatyer and his wife Jean Estelle nee Mackenzie. She had two older brothers in Ken and Robert, and two younger, in Ralph and Hugh.

In 1930, her father was transferred to Perth and she attended Miss McQuee’s Kindergarten in Nedlands with Ralph and, in 1933 at the age of seven, went on to PLC under Dr Vera Summers OBE (Principal 1934-1961).

Jean loved school! She was a Brownie and went on to be a Patrol Leader in the Girl Guides under Miss Kathleen Baird (1932), learned Music under Miss Dorothy Hutchinson (Music Mistress 1920-1965) and, over the years, competed in the Tennis, Hockey and Swimming teams. She was a Prefect in 1941 and 1942, and Stewart House Captain in her final year.

Appropriately, she was also awarded the Stella Clarke Memorial Gardening Prize, which was given to the girl who best and most consistently cared for the Stella Clarke Memorial Garden, a plot on the drive at the View Street entrance.

On leaving school, during the war, Jean trained as a nurse at the Perth Children’s Hospital, and worked there before moving to Melbourne to complete a year at the Melbourne Children’s Hospital. Midwifery training at Melbourne’s Women’s Hospital followed, and further training at Great Ormond Street in London, in the UK. Returning to Perth, in 1952 Jean married Ivan Barnes ‘Barney’

In 1970 Jean began working at UWA, reporting on changes to the flow of traffic and pedestrians as the result of the completion of the underpass between the campus and Currie Hall, on the other side of Stirling Highway. Appointed the inaugural Landscape Architect at this time, she worked at UWA until 1980.

Jean was an indomitable force. Widowed in 1977 when Barney sadly died aged just 60, she later married Laurence Brodie-Hall CMG, who went on to be knighted in 1982. Jean continued to practice Landscape Architecture as an Honorary Consultant in both Kalgoorlie and Perth, well into her 80s. She also worked on UWA advisory committees, was Inaugural Patron to the UWA Friends of the Grounds, and was instrumental in the development of UWA’s Centenary Trust for Women.

During her life, Jean was recognised for the admirable contribution she made to both her profession and the landscape of WA. She was made a Fellow of Curtin University in 1981, a Member of the Order of Australia in 2001 and, in 2004 for her outstanding, sustained contributions to the University, she was awarded the UWA Chancellor’s Medal.

PLC was very important to Jean, and she retained her connection all her life, being a vibrant part of the Summers Society, the Foundation, and the Old Collegians’ Association.

Her family connection spread through the Nash family, with Amanda Nash (1978), Jennifer Egerton-Warburton (Nash 1982), and Phillipa von Altenstadt (Nash 1984), as well as her brother Hugh, and sister-in-law Jill Slatyer (Bird 1955), with their daughters Jane Benson (Slatyer 1979) and Robyn Andrew (Slatyer 1981).

Jean’s long life was further enriched by her three children, her grandchildren and her great grandchildren. She was proud to have been followed to PLC by her granddaughter, Dr Amanda Jean Seabrook MBBS, GradDipPH, FRACP (2001). The mother of two young boys, Amanda is a Sydney endocrinologist and O U R PA S T M OV E S U S FO R WA R D PAGE 46

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currently completing a PhD in Cancer Genetics.

Jean is also ably remembered and represented at PLC today by two very dear surrogate great grandchildren, of whom she was particularly proud: Amelia and Claudia Penny (Years 7 and 9).

After a long, productive, and fulfilling life, Jean will be greatly missed and forever remembered not only here at PLC, but by all who knew her.

Jean Slatyer in her Junior (Year 10) Year, 1940.

Lady Jean Brodie-Hall (Slatyer 1942) on the UWA bench honouring her younger brother, Prof Ralph Slatyer AC.

Junior House Girls 1934 Back, L-R: Eileen Cunningham, Mary Darling, Connie Livermore 3rd row: Dulcie Cooper, Jan Heffernan, Lalage Thomason, Sheila Bell 2nd row: Brianne Smith, Joyce Brearley, Jean Slatyer, Pat House, Shirley Gooch Front: Prue Shenton, Betty Gill, Jasmine Oldham, Deborah Sanderson, Barbara Kennedy, Morag Bowden

Forms VIA and VIB 1942: Left to right: Lloyd Luscombe, Dorothy Whyte, Beth Dunn (standing), Jean Slatyer, Robin Chennell-Smith (standing), Beryl Turnbull (lying down), Phyllis Winter (front), Gwen Beard, June East, Joan Menzies, Janet Love, Anne Alexander.

Lady Jean Brodie-Hall (Slatyer 1942) at a UWA event in 2019.

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PLC.WA.EDU.AU

Gillian McNeill formerly Riley (McNeill 1965) 17 June 1948 – 11 June 2023 Gillian was one of four daughters born to Neil McNeill (OSC), who went on to become The Hon Neil McNeill, MLC for the Lower West Province (1965-1983), and Ronda nee Kelm.

Gill grew up on the family’s Hamel Farm, Waroona, where she indulged in her love of animals, and spent many happy times with her Papa and Nanna, her three sisters Deirdre Worner (McNeill 1964), Meredith Beck (McNeill 1969), and Helen McNeill (1972), and her Glenister cousins, including Janet Lester (Glenister 1966).

After schooling at Waroona Primary, Gill followed her older sister Deirdre into boarding at PLC in 1961, aged 12. Despite the wide divide between boarders and day girls in those days, Gill soon formed a lifelong friendship with Wendy Snowball (Leach 1965).

Gill went on to study Arts, majoring in Politics, at UWA. She also became an accomplished choralist, pianist, and fluent French speaker. With initial dreams of a career in journalism, in the end practicality won out, and she chose to complete her Teachers’ Certificate at Claremont Teachers’ College.

The McNeill sisters with their father Neil, 1961 L-R: Gillian McNeill formerly Riley (McNeill 1965), Neil McNeill, Meredith Beck (McNeill 1969), Helen McNeill (1972) and Deirdre Worner (McNeill 1964).

Then, in 1969, QANTAS offered Gill the exciting opportunity to fly and explore the world, which she loved!

After only a year in the skies, Gill met fellow steward Frank Riley in 1970. They married in 1971 with Gill’s beloved Labrador, Dax, by her side. Over the following six years, Gill became mother to Benjamin (OSC), Kate Gurjian (Riley 1992) and Samuel (OSC). Although she and Frank went their separate ways in the mid-1990s, Gill had found great happiness living on their property south of Perth, where she owned and trained horses and managed Winterbrook, a horse agistment property.

Along with her love of animals, Gill had a formidable desire to learn, and later gained her Masters in English, on English as a Second Language. She then moved to manage a cattle property in Serpentine, while also working as Head of English at Living Waters Lutheran College.

In retirement, Gill returned to both Waroona and UWA, this time pursuing her Doctorate in Education. She loved the rigors and discipline of study, and was filled with many plans for her future. She was never far from a book, for either study or pleasure; her beloved animals; her children; or, in time, her adored grandchildren.

Gillian McNeill formerly Riley (McNeill 1965).

Her friends and family will forever miss Gill’s radiant smile, her wealth of knowledge, and her quiet wisdom. Above all, they cherish the love she had for them and the relentless energy and determination with which she pursued her dreams, right to the end.

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Black Watch

Nancy Johnson 7 April 1920 - 25 December 2022 Nancy Johnson (Mercer 1937) died on Christmas Day, 2022.

She was our oldest Old Collegian of the time.

She followed her two older sisters, Janet and Marjorie, to PLC in 1936 and, after school, went on to business college for secretarial training.

This would take her well over the minimum requirement.

This time, they relented, and she was finally awarded her 1939-45 Star.

Nancy maintained tenacious contact with PLC throughout her life. She was proud of being a PLC girl and we are equally proud of her.

Lest We Forget.

Nancy was working as a typist/clerk when WWII broke out in 1939 and, as the threat of Japanese invasion became very real, she decided she wanted to do more for the War Effort. In 1941, aged 21, she joined Subiaco’s Voluntary Aid Detachment service (VAD), and underwent nurse training in order to carry out orderly duties in addition to clerical duties at Lucknow (now known as Bethesda) Hospital in Claremont.

In October 1942, she transferred to the Second AIF, in the Australian Army Women’s Medical Service (AAWMS) and, after medical training, served in Queensland for the AIF and the Red Cross and, from November 1943, in New Guinea at the 600 bed 2/8th Australian General Hospital.

There, she cared for service personnel who were either wounded or sick from any number of unfamiliar jungle illnesses. It was non-stop, highly stressful work, accompanied by the very real threat of the Japanese being able to break through the allied lines protecting them.

PLC 1936 Back, L-R: Nancy Mercer, Peggy Maguire, Billie Graham, Wendy Finch Middle: Ettie Masel, Betty Bremner, Elaine Holland, Maxine Love Front: Ruth Herbert, Nancy Smith

Nancy returned to Australia in May 1944 and served throughout the rest of the war at 110th Australian General Hospital (Hollywood) in the Occupational Therapy Unit, working closely with returning Prisoners of War. She requested discharge from the AIF in July 1946 and, a month later, married returned Prisoner of War Ken Johnson. They went on to raise their family of four in the Applecross area.

Although service medals were automatially distributed to men who served in the First AIF(during WWI) or Second AIF (during WWII) women had to apply for them.Many did so in the 1980s and 1990s when they were encouraged to march in ANZAC Day parades, in which the wearing of medals was mandatory.

And so Nancy duly applied for her medals: the 1939-45 Star, the Pacific Star, the War Medal (1939-45), the Australian Service Medal (1939-45), and the Returned from Active Service Badge.

To be eligible for the 1939-45 Star, those in service must have served six months, or 180 days, overseas.

The Army denied Nancy the medal advising that her time in New Guinea amounted to 179 days.

In 2016, with Nancy now aged 96, her son Graeme appealed the decision, asking them to consider including her time on the troop carriers getting to and from New Guinea – pointing out they were just as dangerous as being on foreign soil, if not more dangerous (think of the nurses from the SS Vyner Brooke).

SEMESTER 02

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2023

Nancy during WWI as a VAD, courtesy National Archives of Australia.

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Obituaries We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the following Old Collegians, and offer our sincere condolences to their families: Gwenda Margaret Anderson (Jenkins 1948) 22 December 1930 - 29 September 2023 Denise Anne Bennett (1979) 10 April 1962 – 5 November 2023 Lady Jean Brodie-Hall AM formerly Verschuer (Slatyer 1942) 15 August 1925 – 24 June 2023 Joan Winifred Cooper (Lodge 1943) 24 July 1926 – 16 October 2023 Ann Gibb Cornish (Maitland 1943) 9 August 1926 – 24 June 2023

Lesley Alison Harrison (Baird 1961) 28 July 1943 – 17 May 2023 Gaye Phyllis Hayes (Hamilton 1958) 26 June 1941 – 8 October 2023 Irma Dorothy Jeffery (Anderson 1941) 19 July 1924 – 28 August 2023 Marjorie Gwendoline Vera Jeffree (Wilson 1940) 1 November 1923 – 14 September 2023 Dorothea Yvonne Lane (Rankine-Wilson 1948) 10 November 1930 – 30 July 2023 Diana Lefroy (Morgan 1951) 6 December 1934 – 28 May 2023 Gillian Ronda McNeill formerly Riley (McNeill 1965) 17 June 1948 - 11 June 2023

Lady Katherine Mary Day (Ainslie 1957) 15 July 1940 – 3 October 2021

Joan Isobel Meston (Wallace 1950) 12 December 1932 – 20 September 2023

Shirley Moya Dion (Fong 1948) 25 August 1931 – 21 February 2022

Jillian Milner (Weir 1952) 16 September 1934 – 8 March 2023

Gaena Duncan (Luff 1950) 22 December 1933 – 17 June 2023

Suzanne ‘Sue’ Monger formerly Cox (Mills 1949) 2 January 1933 – 8 September 2023

Sandra Mary Forte (Baird 1957) 5 July 1940 – 12 October 2023 Pauline Winifred Garrigan (Webb 1949) 22 March 1932 – 17 August 2023 Rhonda Jean Gray (Moore 1966) 3 October 1948 – 15 August 2023 Janet Susan Hall (Telfer 1962) 25 June 1945 – 5 November 2023

Ashley Eileen Mottershead (Fraser 1981) 29 August 1964 – 29 September 2023 Wendy Elizabeth Munckton (Samson 1967) 27 December 1949 – 31 January 2023

Elizabeth Rosemary Reid (Thorn 1943) 17 September 1926 – 15 September 2022 Glodyen Therese ‘Glody’ Ross (Paddon 1949) 16 May 1932 – 12 April 2023 Lesley Joy Skevington (Hooper 1948) 11 September 1931 – 3 September 2022 Nanette Sounness (Tregonning 1966) 22 September 1949 – 13 October 2023 Patricia Margaret Sproule (Brown 1964) 19 October 1947 – 4 November 2023 Marian Kathleen Symington (Johnston 1955) 4 August 1938 – 23 July 2023 Coral ‘Trissy’ Thomas (Pascoe 1937) 26 August 1920 – 20 August 2023 Elizabeth Jane ‘Liz’ Vaughan (Overton 1962) 20 February 1945 – 21 August 2023

We are also deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the following former staff: Mrs June Rosemary Hutchison OAM (nee Birt) Standard VI teacher (Primary), 1948-1949 1927 – 17 August 2023 Mrs Carmel Anne Muir Junior School teacher, 1984-1994 28 July 1938 – 15 September 2023

O U R PA S T M OV E S U S FO R WA R D PAGE 50

Presbyterian Ladies’ College A College of The Uniting Church in Australia 14 McNeil Street, Peppermint Grove Western, Australia, 6011 +61 8 9424 6444 plc.wa.edu.au