100 years of inspiring women
Compiled in commemoration of PLC’s Centenary by the
PLC Old Collegians’ Association
PLC’s Centenary year celebrates 100 years of inspiring women; women making or who have made their mark and contributed in all areas – the professions, business, family and social communities. 100 Years of Inspiring Women has been an historic opportunity for the entire School community to come together – to reflect on our past, learn from the present and contemplate our future. From humble beginnings, PLC has grown into the School we know today. We thank our founders for their courage, vision and faith. Also for establishing PLC’s enduring values of education for women, community spirit, integrity and effort: values that have stood the test of time and are as relevant today as they were 100 years ago. We share the legacy of that decision to establish a school for girls in 1915, with this commemorative booklet. The Old Collegian’s Association is proud to launch this collection of its members who have achieved so much across the decades of PLC’s history and across so many fields of endeavour. The women highlighted in the following pages serve as examples of the remarkable graduates of the College. With so many other Old Collegians who have achieved so much, we look forward to making this an ongoing project by adding to this collection each year.
GROWING A RICH LIFE
Joan Tully (Hearman)
Agricultural Scientist, Class of 1924 A misdemeanor rather than a crime brought young Joan
She was seconded to the Agriculture Department, where
Hearman out swinging in her school days. The determined
she provided on-farm advice mainly to Italian immigrants
spirit it revealed would later fuel this remarkable woman’s
in the Murrumbidgee irrigation area and developed an
illustrious career as one of Australia’s most respected
interest in countrywomen, their families and their needs.
agricultural scientists.
Prompted by these experiences, she turned her attention to
Coming to PLC in 1919, the bright Donnybrook boarder was from all accounts an excellent student, when aged 16,
the behavioural sciences, winning a Fulbright scholarship to study in the United States in 1952-1953.
she and two other boarders absconded to the river to meet
Moving back to CSIRO Melbourne in 1956, Joan soon found
some Scotch College boys.
herself seconded to Melbourne University working with
This was to become a life-defining event for several players: Joan’s two accomplices were expelled, Joan herself suspended for a term. However a heartfelt apology soon saw Joan’s suspension reduced to six weeks. Determined to pull up her socks, Joan would subsequently gain entry to the University of Western Australia, studying Science majoring
other celebrated psychology researchers on factors affecting farmers’ decision-making. The balance of her career would see Joan working in universities pursuing her interest in farming and the behavioural sciences. In 1972, Joan was elected a fellow of the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science before formally retiring.
in Horticulture. Five years later Joan would receive a PhD
An independent and determined woman always, Joan Tully
from the University of London.
succeeded in what was predominantly a masculine world.
Returning to Western Australia in 1936, Joan worked first as a research officer with the Forests Department, later as a plant physiologist with CSIRO in Griffith, NSW. In 1944 she married valuer, widower and father-of-four Archie Scott Tully. Joan would resign her post within a year, only to find herself tragically widowed two months later. Responsible now for the care and upbringing of her stepchildren including a child with a disability, Joan would return to CSIRO in 1946.
Having confronted sexist attitudes throughout her career, Joan was adamant women should expect no special privileges and obtain professional recognition based purely on merit. Joan died in Brisbane in 1973, leaving a stepson and two of her three stepdaughters.
VALUES UNDERPIN VIRTUOUS LIFE
DAME Alexandra HASLUCK, AD
(DARKER)
Author and Social Historian, Class of 1925 Her PLC years may only have been brief, but lessons learned
support to her husband’s burgeoning career, the noted
at School were to inform the rest of the life of distinguished
historian, poet, and public servant serving his country as a
Australian, author and social historian, Dame Alexandra
diplomat, later Federal government politician and cabinet
Margaret Martin Hasluck, AD.
minister before appointment as Australia’s 17th Governor
Alexandra would go on to become known both in her own
General in 1969.
right, as well as the able wife and helpmate to her equally
While her husband’s various roles involved Alexandra in a
distinguished husband, Governor-General, Sir Paul Hasluck.
highly busy schedule, never did it preclude the prodigiously
Acknowledged always as intelligent, strongly opinionated and staunchly Australian, it is said that had Alexandra agreed to her husband extending his term in 1974, the sacking of the Whitlam government would never have occurred! The only child of John and Evelyn Darker, Alexandra was born into an already third generation Western Australian family when entering the world in 1908. A pupil in PLC’s earliest years at Ormiston College from 1914, returning
talented and hardworking Alexandra from pursuing her own interests. Alexandra wrote substantial historical and biographical studies including publication of 11 books and numerous articles. Awarded an honorary Doctor of Literature by the University of Western Australia in 1970, eight years later Alexandra would become the first Dame of the Order of Australia for services to Australian letters.
to School some 40 years later to share her memories with
Returning to Perth in 1975, the couple would remain active
students, Alexandra recalled her then Principal Miss Scorgie
in political and cultural affairs to the end of their lives.
had managed to instill a sense of essential values into all the
Alexandra would put pen to paper in her final book and
girls: lessons that included honesty and not being afraid to
autobiography 'Portrait in a Mirror' published in 1981. Both
tell the truth, things Alexandra said guided her life.
died in 1993, Dame Alexandra passing away shortly after her
A graduate of the University of Western Australia, Alexandra initially taught at St Hilda’s before marriage in 1932 to Paul Hasluck. In this role, Alexandra was to provide invaluable
Photo courtesy of the Hasluck family.
husband. These two great Australians are commemorated and remembered today through the eponymously named WA Federal seat of Hasluck.
A SECRET SUCCESS
Roma Gornall
(Craze)
Code Breaker, Class of 1932 A talent for language proved to be a passport to the
‘hush-hush’ process, Roma was one of the first five women
world, also an amazing, highly secretive wartime career
seconded into the covert war effort. She signed the Official
for Roma Gornall.
Secrets Act and was given a rail ticket to Buckinghamshire,
A student of Latin, German and French while at PLC from 1925-1932, Roma majored in French at the University of Western Australia and obtained an Arts degree with Honours in 1936. In 1936 Roma joined the staff at PLC, teaching English, French, Latin and Italian before heading off to Europe in early 1939 to teach English at a school in Leipzig, Nazi Germany. War was rapidly bearing down on Europe but in her unpublished memoir, Roma says girls of her generation were ‘very innocent’ and ‘over-protected’. Roma attributes this, and an admittedly unobservant nature, to her own inability to absorb what was happening at the time. Ignoring warnings from the British Consul to leave Germany, Roma stayed just a little longer to enjoy the country’s abundant culture. Just five days before Britain officially declared war on Germany, Roma packed her bags and returned to England, realising the seriousness of the situation along the way. Roma’s life was about to take an interesting turn. Before departing Germany, Roma had received a letter from “someone in Whitehall”. Five weeks later, following a
where the legendary group of WWII analysts and code breakers were setting up at Bletchley Park. Their efforts, it is estimated, shortened the war by as much as three years. Roma worked at Bletchley Park for the duration of the war, putting her superb language skills to good use in SIXTA, the group charged with recording and analyzing activity on enemy radio networks. Sworn to secrecy, on punishment of death if she broke the Official Secrets Act, Roma said nothing of her extraordinary efforts until almost 50 years after WWII. Humble to the end, PLC News of December 1991 reported only that Roma “spent the war years in England, where she met and married her husband John. They returned to NSW and farmed for nearly 40 years...” Consequently, little was known of Roma’s enormous contribution to the war effort, and the risks she took, until recently. This brilliant, brave and inspiring woman died in NSW in 1995.
A CARING CENTURY
DR Margaret Henderson, OBE Doctor of Medical Science, Class of 1932
She shares a century with her alma mater this year, not that
Moving on to Europe, with an interest in respiratory and
this has stopped centenarian Dr Margaret Henderson from
thoracic medicine, Margaret obtained membership and
staying with the times. The redoubtable physician’s advice
later fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians, and
to today’s young career women is “go for it”.
subsequently, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
This dictum has certainly underscored Margaret's own
While still in London, RMH appointed Margaret an
career as medical leader and pioneer, including a key role
Honorary Physician, the first woman appointed to the
establishing women’s rightful place in medicine.
hospital’s honorary staff. In her autobiography, Margaret
A strength of character and an uncommonly perceptive mind saw the academically-gifted Margaret win a Government University Exhibition at just 16. Too young for university,
notes that she had “applied mainly to strike a blow for women in medicine – and then put it out of [her] mind as being far too great a break with tradition”.
Margaret would repeat her leaving Honours at PLC before
Margaret returned to work in Melbourne in 1976 and
taking a year of Science at the University of Western
was awarded an Order of the British Empire for services
Australia. Margaret would then move on to the University
to medicine, a rare distinction for that era. Melbourne
of Melbourne to study Medicine.
University last year further awarded Margaret the degree
Graduating in 1938 with a shared exhibition in Surgery,
of Doctor of Medical Science, honoris causa.
Margaret joined the Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH).
Reflecting on the extraordinary changes in medicine during
Margaret would commit to a higher Doctor of Medicine
an extended career, Margaret Henderson noted: “What is
degree, as war’s tide swept Australia, taking with it many
unchanging is the need we all have for the understanding,
of her contemporaries.
the explaining, the assurance
The war years would keep Margaret busy doing research, working in general practice and at RMH and service with the Australian Military Forces. With war at an end, Margaret would be recruited to the Red Cross for post-war civilian work in outlying Malay villages – first aid she called it!
and the support we ask from our physicians”. It is in these insightful words that Margaret Henderson perhaps best reveals her humanity and exceptional standing as both physician and teacher of physicians.
DEDICATED TO HUM ANITY
HON June Craig, am
(LYNN)
Politician and Humanitarian, Class of 1947 It’s hard to fathom that for the near decade June Craig served
Rapidly enough June’s hard work, determination and
the people of Western Australia as a parliamentarian and
practical approach would see her elevation to Cabinet. This,
Cabinet Minister, she was its only woman member.
and acknowledgement by the then Opposition Leader that
In fact, ever pragmatic June says she was probably far too busy fulfilling multiple roles and ‘working jolly hard’ to even
hers was no token appointment, June remembers as high points in her political life.
contemplate loneliness. Elected member for the southwest
After losing her attempt to win a new seat in 1983, June
seat of Wellington in WA’s Legislative Assembly in 1974,
then took on the full-time care of her granddaughter, her
June would join Cabinet after only one term, the second
daughter previously dying in a tragic accident. Additionally,
woman ever to achieve such rank in the WA parliament.
indefatigable June would take on the challenges of small
Added to family and electorate commitments, June says she
business and continue serving the Liberal Party as a
found herself permanently on the run.
branch senior Vice President, all the time remaining
Not that she foreshadowed this life, far from it; University student June abandoned her studies in Physical Education
actively involved in a wide variety of community affairs and organisations.
initially in favour of life on a Dardanup farm with husband
In 1994, June’s multiple contributions were recognised
Frank and three children.
with her appointment as a Member of the General Division
Soon enough, her children grown, the ever active and former State Junior tennis player would find herself putting her many talents and energies to good use beyond home, establishing a combined Good Neighbour Council and Citizen Advice Bureau. With political forebears on both sides, one thing would lead to another. Politically aware June, concerned with some local issues, decided to put her name forward, only to find herself having to defeat 11 male contenders to become the endorsed candidate for Wellington.
of the Order of Australia. To this day, ever sprightly and committed, June continues as Claremont branch President of Save the Children, revels in the embrace of family and enjoys many friendships, some dating to schooldays.
LEADING BY EX A MPLE
Heather Barr PLC Principal, Class of 1949
Heather Barr is recalled as a peerless educator and was to
alma mater in 1968. She lead PLC for the next 22 years. A
have a profound influence, through her delight in educating
truly gentle, Christian woman, Heather spent her entire
rather than simply teaching.
life caring for others. Heather was loved and admired by
PLC had its first ‘Old Girl’ Principal in 1968 with the appointment of Miss Heather Barr, then aged just 36. Heather had completed her Leaving (Year 12) at PLC in 1949, then went on to train as a teacher at UWA, and in the mid 1960s returned to study, being one of the first to graduate with a Diploma in Educational Administration. She taught at state schools with the WA Department of Education from 1954 until her appointment as Principal to PLC in 1968. Later (1972), she was the first female elected President of the Association of Independent Schools. Miss Barr had a gentle spirit, a generous soul and a gracious, ladylike demeanour. Reed thin, with rarely a hair out of place,
past and present students and parents alike, both as an educational and religious school leader. Enjoying wide respect from Australia’s educational community, Heather was ever ready to provide wise and careful thought and input, serving amongst other groups the Association of Heads of Independent Girls’ Schools of Western Australia, and its national counterpart. She participated in several women’s groups including Soroptimist International and the Australian Federation of University Women. Heather’s work was greatly sustained by her strong faith. She was an elder of the Uniting Church in Australia and chorister at St Andrew’s Church, Perth.
she was softly spoken and always carried herself gracefully.
Heather Barr died suddenly in 1989 aged 56, the school
She was soft, gentle, light of touch and determined.
community remembering Heather as a fine example of
Concluding early in her career that for the education process
tolerance, compassion and good judgment.
to be truly fruitful, schools required good administration,
Always dedicated to the girls and their achievements,
she set about developing her skills in this area.
Heather Barr will be long remembered by all who came to
She became a founding member of the WA Institute of Educational Administration and became its first elected Fellow. Her already considerable achievements and experience would see Heather take up the role of Principal at her
know her through her too short but valuable life of service and the example she set for others.
SINGULAR LIFE OF SERVICE
JUSTICE Carolyn Martin
(HOARE)
Family Court of Western Australia Judge, Class of 1969 Carolyn Martin’s life was one of many firsts. So small and elf-like was the prematurely born Carolyn Hoare, her parents gifted their tiny daughter Elvina as a second name. Such prematurity however, was not to impede Carolyn’s intellectual development, either early in her life, or later in a career of service to others. Arriving from the UK with her family aged just five years, Carolyn, already a fluent reader and writer and exhibiting other signs of extraordinary intelligence, was immediately placed into Grade 2. By Grade 7, with her prodigious intellect seeing Carolyn winning a scholarship to PLC, conscientious, hard-working student excelled at History, Latin and Chemistry. Carolyn would go onto the University of Western Australia, graduating in Law with Honours. A Master of Laws at the University of London followed. Returning to Western Australia, Carolyn was first admitted to practice in 1977. After several years, Carolyn would go on to join the Family Court of Western Australia as registrar. She was its first female appointee to that position.
More firsts followed. In 1985, Carolyn became the first female stipendiary magistrate and in 1996, the first female judge of the Family Court of Western Australia. Adoption Law called Carolyn, who became recognised in her career as the leading authority on this area of the law in WA, if not Australia. An inveterate traveller, Carolyn notched up visits to almost 100 countries. She loved cruises and particularly enjoyed visiting places with an interesting history or the opportunity to shop for unusual items. Sadly, The Hon Justice Carolyn Martin died on 1 October 2012. It is said a quiet courage and extraordinary concern for others marked out this difficult journey to her end. Recalling fondly the vivacious, highly intelligent Carolyn, friends say she was a person who always made the most of every day: a woman whose laughter, vibrancy and zest for life gave her a singular capacity to light up every room she entered.
PROFESSOR OF COMMON SENSE
PROFESSOR Wendy Carlin Rhodes Scholar, Economist, Class of 1974
An art form or science, the debate rages endlessly but in
to effect social change through applying economics that
no doubt is the impact economics has on all our lives, nor
she quickly enough changed tack in pursuit of what has
its prospect to avert financial disaster such as recession
become her lifetime’s work and passion.
and depression.
A Rhodes scholarship would take Wendy on to Oxford
Not in contention either is Wendy Carlin’s impact in this
University and a M.Phil, later a D. Phil, Economics (the
field of endeavour. This includes in teaching the next crop
Oxford equivalent of a PhD). In what Wendy regards as
of economists and trying to engage the rest of us in useful
remarkable good fortune, her UCL appointment would
discussion and a better understanding of a discipline whose
also become Wendy’s passport to a lifetime’s influence in
practice Wendy sees as infinitely capable of changing the
her chosen discipline.
world for the better.
Continuing to teach in an institution that has moved to
With more than 470,000 Google mentions and dubbed by
be one of the world’s best, among Wendy’s latest and she
the international financial press as ‘the professor of common
hopes enduring contributions, is as a key member of the
sense’, this world-renowned economist was first appointed
CORE Project. This international initiative is reforming the
at the influential University College London (UCL) in 1986
undergraduate Economics curriculum. Its creators hope it
and later promoted to Professor of Economics.
will be a springboard to the on going practice of a discipline
Three decades on, Wendy continues to play a leading role in the teaching and practice of economics. This includes
that Wendy assuredly sees as endlessly fascinating, exciting and satisfying.
through her seminal research, authorship and advisory
Practicing as she preaches and motivated by a belief that
contributions at the highest international levels. For many
this truly is economics’ golden age, this diligent, determined
years too, Wendy co-edited the influential publication
world-class scholar and educator offers one last word. Wendy
'Economics of Transition'.
urges the rest of us to join the debate, “keep an open mind
Not that this was Wendy’s original intention. Leaving School to study comparative literature at the then brand-new Murdoch University, the young scholar’s interest was sufficiently piqued by the breadth of opportunity she saw
always and never be daunted, as very often you will achieve way more than you think”. Precisely as this remarkable Old Collegian has herself.
A CAREER COME FULL CIRCLE
DR Megan Clark, ac Director, Rio Tinto, Class of 1975
Megan Clark’s career could be said to have come full circle. Her appointment as a non-executive director of Rio Tinto, while strengthening the Australian representation on the
Megan says: “If you choose to make a difference, it is amazing what an incredible difference you can make and even if a tiny bit of you remains afraid.”
global mining giant’s board, importantly for Megan also sees her heading up the board’s Safety Committee. It’s a role particularly close to Megan’s heart: as a young geologist, Megan vowed she’d do everything in her power to avoid
“ When given a chance, always take it.”
death occurring on her own watch in the notoriously dangerous mining industry. Megan has taken up her latest role having stepped down from five years heading up Australia’s premier national science agency, CSIRO. As its first female chief executive, Megan’s powerful advocacy for innovation’s role in creating a better future undoubtedly expanded her global reputation. Directing one of the world’s leading multi-disciplinary applied research organisations, Megan found herself widely recognised for her relentless focus of giving leadership to CSIRO’s key remit of science delivering profound impact for industry, the community and a sustainable future. She credits her PLC years with giving her a quiet confidence that has allowed her to step out and take responsibility for any sphere of influence she’s had. As a believer in people taking responsibility for themselves and that there are no rulebooks, her advice to others is when given a challenge, always take it.
It’s advice she’s always taken herself. Beginning as a mine geologist at a time when the law still precluded women from working underground, never daunted Megan. Instead she would carve out a stellar career including key roles with Western Mining Corporation before becoming Technology Vice President with BHP Billiton. CSIRO followed. Megan has served and continues to serve on a host of highpowered government, business and industry boards. Serving Australia and giving back to her country remains high on Megan’s priority list, values she says she learned while at PLC. Megan’s work fostering innovation and her eminent service to scientific research and development has recently been recognised with an Order of Australia, Megan made a Companion (AC) in the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours list.
SCALING THE HEIGHTS OF JUSTICE
Justice Michelle Gordon High Court of Australia Judge, Class of 1981
“Aim high and always have more in your life than work.”
Widely published and with a string of major contributions to
A cursory glance at the accomplished life of Australia’s
her profession, without compunction Michelle agrees hard
newest High Court appointee, Justice Michelle Gordon
work has played a big role in her own professional success.
reveals ample evidence of Her Honour living out exactly the two most important lessons she says PLC taught her.
As quickly and graciously, Michelle acknowledges the role others, particularly men, have played. She says it has also
A professional record of substantive achievement over almost
helped develop in her a keen interest to see what can be
30 years sees the former Federal Court judge this year take
done to help women and others who because of race, sexual
up office at the highest rank in her chosen profession. At 50,
orientation or other reasons need more assistance to advance
this also makes Justice Gordon one of the High Court's
their own legal careers.
youngest-ever appointees.
Her Honour firmly believes attitude changes will come
While spending only her two final years at PLC, Michelle
about only by fully opening up this particular conversation
Gordon declares these were highly formative. Graduating
for debate and discussion. Heartening too is Michelle’s
in Law from the University of Western Australia in 1986,
discovery over a lifetime of practice that so often it takes
Michelle completed articles at Robinson Cox, Perth, later
so little to actually make a big difference.
joining Arthur Robinson & Hedderwicks, where in 1992 she was appointed Senior Associate, signing the roll of the Victorian Bar later that year. Appointed Senior Counsel in 2003 and prior to going to the Bench, Michelle practiced extensively in State and Federal courts, earning herself a formidable reputation as an authority on tax, commercial and constitutional law.
SONG BIRDS’ SIMPLE VIRTUES
Sara Macliver Opera Singer, Class of 1985
She’s scaled the heights of her classical singing career. Yet
In a remarkable stroke of fortune, Sara says PLC led the way
for all this accomplishment, you’ll find no difficult diva in
by introducing individual singing lessons. These would power
soprano Sara Macliver.
Sara to pursue what would become a passion, later career.
With the voice of a veritable nightingale and a lengthy and successful career that includes a reputation as one of Australia’s leading, most popular and versatile artists, readily unearthed is an attractively modest, gracious and generous artist, performer and once again, teacher. Sara is a regular with the country’s major symphony orchestras and leading ensembles and to her career credit are operas, concerts, recital performances and numerous recordings. Sara enjoys wide acknowledgment also as one of Australia’s leading exponents of Baroque repertoire, music that forms a major portion of the classical canon. Sara credits PLC with “giving her so many opportunities and a rounded education including real life skills” she says provided her a balance. More importantly, it’s the simple virtues of kindness, generosity, warmth, compassion and humility taught by singing teacher Mary-Beth Williamson and other teachers that have underscored her life, says Sara. Indeed they would appear to be Sara’s leitmotif.
Subsequently a pupil of famed singing teacher Molly McGurk when studying at the University of Western Australia, after completing a Bachelor of Music Education in 1989, Sara commenced teaching at MLC. Here with 16 singing students and the Year 8 and 9 choirs, she started up her own chorale. In 1996, a Young Artist position with West Australian Opera would become the conduit to a full-time career for Sara as a freelance soprano. With performances spanning the globe and to critical acclaim, Sara has performed for royalty including the Queen and Prince Philip, on sporting fields, on top of a stadium, in paddocks, in beautiful churches and cathedrals and in some of the world’s best concert halls. With an Honorary Doctorate of Music from university alma mater UWA, more recently Sara has reprised her teaching career, today giving generously of her time and talent to a budding new generation of singers. Nor has Sara’s success seen her lose sight of what she acknowledges as her greatest priority and most important achievement – her family.
ALL ROUND GREAT EX A MPLE
DR Kate Stannage Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon, Class of 1989
With an historian father and English teacher mother,
to her role today as department head of orthopaedics at
Kate Stannage has no idea how or why she was determined
Princess Margaret Hospital. It’s in the Solomon Islands
to become an orthopaedic surgeon. Even more surprising
that Kate would also meet her physiotherapist husband and
to Kate is that she expressed exactly this intention to her
now father to the couple’s two young sons.
Principal, Heather Barr, when aged only 12.
Kate’s initial orthopaedic placement was as a registrar in
It has taken considerable persistence and at times great
Warwick, UK. Returning to WA, she would need to cool
fortitude to achieve her childhood ambitions, Kate noting
her heels for a further year before being accepted onto the
orthopaedics is a long and difficult pathway and journey
local training programme as its third ever female trainee.
seldom undertaken by women. Since qualifying in 2007,
Kate would also break new ground by stopping to have
Kate has joined only two other female practitioners in
children, extending her training to a six-year process.
WA, with no woman qualifying since and females still representing only 2.5% of this workforce.
Today in her PMH role, Kate specialises in neuromuscular conditions especially caring for children with cerebral palsy and babies with hip and foot problems. Lecturing at
“never accept no for an answer.”
UWA and Notre Dame, Kate also supervises Honours and PhD students, including mentoring other women keen to enter surgery. She presented on leadership in a male dominated profession to the United Nations Development
Coming to PLC in Grade 3 Kate would go on to win a
Fund for Women and continues volunteering in several less
Carmichael scholarship to Senior School. In addition to
developed countries.
her academic studies, all-rounder Kate would study French horn as she competed nationally in gymnastics, diving and athletics and in Year 10, joining the WA Youth Orchestra. Six years at medical school and a two-year residency at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, was followed by a year of aid work in the Solomon Islands and Kate’s initial pathway
Kate attests that for its many challenges, hers remains an amazing job and she struggles to imagine another career offering quite so much variety or fun. As advice to other young women, Kate says, "Always aim for the very highest you can and never accept no for an answer."
SAILED INTO SUCCESS
Suzannah Vaughan Captain, Class of 1989
A sail on STS Leeuwin was to change the life of an already
It saw Suzannah recognised by many industry and other
spirited, teenaged Suzannah Vaughan.
awards, particularly notable her 2007 Veuve Cliquot award,
Two years later this experience would see the young Suzannah picked as Australia’s representative on a world
this global tribute to women achievers named in honour of the feisty founder of the famous French champagne house.
voyage celebrating America’s 500th anniversary since
At the time Suzannah said: “I wish to make a difference to
discovery. Indeed the lure of sailing and the briny blue
the world and improve our lives beyond the length of my
would never desert Suzannah and ultimately influence her
time on this earth” – even Suzannah herself unaware of
rare and unusual career choice, particularly for a woman,
how prescient were her words.
as a ship’s captain.
Continuing to work hard to achieve her ambition, including
The always adventurous, highly active and sporty Suzannah
using and developing appropriate technologies resulting
originally graduated in Physical Education, a career that
in lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency to ensure
quickly enough gave way to her even greater passion for
environmental sustainability in her industry, late in 2008
sailing. In 1996, Suzannah would attend the Australian
Suzannah would take the helm for the very last time.
Maritime College in Launceston, qualifying to captain square-rigged sailing ships. Adding to her CV a Diploma of Nautical Science, later an MBA from the University of Western Australia, the then 33-year old Suzannah would find herself appointed the first woman and youngest–ever marine superintendent of an Australian offshore floating oil production facility, captaining these ocean behemoths of the international oil industry. In an industry boasting female participation of less than one per cent, Suzannah’s work ethic and style soon enough gained her wide admiration and respect including for her individual and humanitarian leadership style.
Having only recently taken up a tanker captain’s commission for a Swedish company working in the Bay of Bengal, tragically 36-year old Suzannah was to die in her sleep. Ever remembered, her many close school friends fondly recall Suzannah’s extraordinary spirit, which they say is best summed up by Suzannah’s own favorite piece of advice: “There is always light at the end of the tunnel, even if you need to get out there and light it yourself!”
PUSHING FORWARD WITH PURPOSE
Dr Michelle Telfer Paediatrician and Olympian, Class of 1991
Michelle Telfer came to understand dilemma at an early age. Singled out at seven for an elite junior gymnastic training squad, quickly enough Michelle’s abilities saw her propelled to an even more elite Western Australian Institute of Sport squad, meaning full-time training at just 14. What to do for a girl who enjoyed study and loved school as much as she enjoyed gymnastics? Michelle says with much help from PLC, she managed to continue her studies while training in a system progressively taking her further and further. Representing Australia internationally, Michelle would go on to win silver and bronze medals at Commonwealth Games level before competing at the Barcelona Olympics. Michelle was also twice awarded Junior Sports Star of the Year. However by 1992 and acknowledging she’d got way farther than ever she’d even expected, Michelle needed to make a difficult choice. Retiring her sporting pursuits, Michelle would redirect all her efforts toward her education.
A three-month paediatric stint at Melbourne’s Alfred Hospital would soon seal Michelle’s medical fate. Working today at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital, the now mother-of-two’s professional interest and heart more pertinently lies in the care and treatment of children presenting with gender dysphoria – identifying with a different gender – and heading up the RCH's unit. This year there will be 150 new presentations: three years ago, it was only 18 new annual referrals. While acknowledging the richly rewarding nature of her work, Michelle remains acutely aware of the great many challenges and dilemmas this area of practice raises for patients and the community alike. It’s also the reason Michelle today finds herself a passionate advocate publically, including for legislative change. Her personal experience of facing dilemmas and making her own difficult decisions strengthens Michelle’s work today. Neither does she underestimate PLC’s contribution; Michelle appreciates School presented girls with the view
Keen on medicine, Michelle initially had to content herself
that they could stand up and make a difference, lessons
with Science, before the same determination and effort
Michelle herself clearly lives by today.
that underwrote her sporting achievements saw Michelle eventually achieve her career goal of graduating in Medicine from the University of Western Australia. She would also serve WAIS in a board role before another big change beckoned.
This ground-breaker's abiding advice to others? "Always have a go: It’s always OK to push forward."
ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING
Fiona Boyce Lawyer and Olympian, Class of 2004
In a young life already crowded with achievement and
winning performance at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
accomplishment including at international level, it’s a
Then there are the 101 official caps representing her country
touching tribute that champion sportswoman Fiona Boyce
and of course, the 2012 London Olympics.
nominates her PLC years as “six of the best years of my life”.
Not that this was plain sailing for Fiona. Far from it! Just six
Indeed this gold-medal winning Australian Hockeyroo is
weeks out from the games, Fiona faced the heartbreak of
a living example of her own positive attitude, overcoming
major reconstruction surgery to repair a broken clavicle.
setbacks that would have felled many a lesser soul. For Fiona
But with a determination, hard work and application to
is a woman determined in equal measure to make every post
her rehabilitation programme denoting a resilience defying
a winner and every single experience count. Even the cancer
description, Fiona fought her way back into the team to
Fiona has confronted, she has conquered.
resume her rightful place. Retirement from elite hockey competition followed, Fiona
“consciously choose to be happy and positive.”
entering the law, yet only three months later, facing perhaps the biggest challenge of her young life – a cancer diagnosis followed by chemotherapy. But again, with a dogged determination and never-give-up attitude, a year on finds
Fiona gives first-hand testament that attitude is everything.
Fiona in remission, healthy, enjoying life and work and
Today and still only in her twenties, the now corporate
excitingly also for Fiona, marriage.
lawyer, who holds both Law and Commerce degrees, also maintains roles as a charity ambassador and board member of a national sporting organisation.
Unsurprisingly maybe, Fiona possesses a wisdom beyond her tender years. As she notes, Challenges come to everyone, but it’s all up to you and a personal decision as to how much and
A member of the famed Australian Women’s Hockey team
what you learn from what happens. This includes choosing
from 2009 to 2013, Fiona’s achievements include a gold medal
your attitude, positive or negative.”
A TRUE CHA MPION FOR CHANGE
Josie Janz-Dawson State Netballer, Wirrpanda Foundation Programme Manager, Class of 2005
Josie Janz-Dawson knows what it is to have a foot in two
It’s this unique set of experiences and background that have
camps. Born on Thursday Island to a Torres Strait Island
also led Josie into a new leadership role, today mentoring
mother and white father, Josie appreciates it’s her formative
young Aboriginal women with the aim of producing
years spent in Derby that have given her a unique perspective
tomorrow’s leaders from her own community. As manager
and insight to the disconnect in Australia between the two
of the Wirrpanda Foundation’s Deadly Sista Girlz, Josie
cultures and the problems this can cause.
leads the programme, today successfully operating in
Josie points to the fact that six of her 10 fellow Australians have never even met an Aboriginal person. Josie reflects too on her own massive culture shock when coming to PLC in Year 10: she’d never worn stockings, a Panama, beret or matching uniform, Josie saying she struggled too, having never written an essay prior to coming to PLC. On the upside, Josie appreciates that growing up in the little town of Derby provided her with a far greater sense of community and belonging. Her involvement at a competitive level locally and regionally in netball, basketball, swimming and athletics further inspired Josie to want to come to Perth, a scholarship seeing her complete her last three years of schooling at PLC. Here she found great encouragement to forge her own path and mentoring to help her become whatever she wanted to be. Leaving School, the champion schoolgirl netballer went professional, carving out her first career with West Coast Fever and representing Australia, Josie a player to this day.
several states and in communities across Western Australia. Aiming to engage, inspire, and empower young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls between the ages of eight and 17. Deadly Sista Girlz presents strong role models to promote healthy lifestyles, regular school attendance and positive behaviors among younger Aboriginals. Josie says she works to see her people move from surviving to thriving, see fewer young women dropping out and more graduating. Most of all Josie hopes to do herself out of her own job. As Josie concludes, “When there is no longer a need for my role in the community, I will be a happy person.”
ROWING TO GREATNESS
Hannah Vermeersch Olympian, Class of 2009
She’s crewed in an Australian Women’s Rowing Eight that
national rowing team. Equally it taught her valuable life
captured the hearts of a nation to secure its spot in their
skills, which Hannah says she puts to constant use, including
final of the 2012 London Olympics.
in managing her time and dealing with disappointment.
As the youngest member and only teenager in the Australian
Graduating from PLC in 2009, Hannah would travel
rowing team, Hannah Vermeesch belonged to a spirited
the world with her rowing commitments while initially
Eights crew that is remembered still for the excitement the
commencing a Sports Science degree at Murdoch University.
girls generated in a finals victory that stunned the world.
However this has given way to her current full-time bid
Originally aiming for the Rio 2016 Olympics, Hannah soared into contention for the London Olympics after ‘ finding her something special’ in a paired crew with fellow Western
to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, with Hannah currently training in Europe for selection in the Senior Women’s Eights.
Australian rower Alexandra Hagan. Packing their bags and
So what advice does this bright, young, already world-beater
moving to Sydney early in 2012 to begin training with the
have for others? With a characteristic modesty befitting of
Eights, it was the duo's first senior call-up. Hannah would
a champion, Hannah says she only needs look to her School
earn her own selection for this crew after a fierce battle
years, including the serendipity of her maths teacher also
between 10 women for the eight available spots.
happening to be the Year 9 rowing coordinator. With her
Dedication, hard work and a punishing training schedule
encouragement, Hannah first went down to the rowing shed.
look to be key ingredients that have taken Hannah to the
“Take advantage of the opportunities you are given,
top at such an early age.
don’t be afraid of new opportunities and never dismiss
Reflecting on boarding at PLC, Hannah says it’s about learning independence and resilience that spring to mind as among her greatest take aways from School. She admits it was difficult getting through Year 12 while part of the
activities because you think you might not be good at them. I would never have tried rowing. I gave it a go and have never looked back”.
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