Connection, Courage and Community
Stellar Impact
A Canvas of Possibilities
Welcoming our ninth Principal
Queenwood acknowledges the Cammeraigal people who are the traditional custodians of the land on which the School is built and we pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
QUEENWOOD
LOCKED BAG 1
MOSMAN NSW 2088
+61 2 8968 7777
q@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
queenwood.nsw.edu.au
ABN 83000532696
Thisissue of QNews explores Connection, Courage and Community.
We hear from inspirational women of all ages. We interview alumna Katherine BennellPegg, Australia’s first trained astronaut, who shares her journey and advice for students aspiring for a career in space. Alumna Jean Florance (Q1946) reminisces about her time in the Queenwood boarding house and her fond memories of Miss Rennie. Our Art Captains and the Head of Visual Arts discuss transferable skills and potential careers in art. Music scholars, Bonna and Misato, share their musical journey and aspirations for the future.
The life of the School continues to be busy and varied. There are updates on the QUTE electric vehicle project, stories of courage and resilience from senior and junior students, and parents of girls soon to enter the Senior School will be interested in the advice from Year 7 and 8 students for a smooth transition to Senior School.
The Sport and PDHPE Departments share their love for sports and what makes it unique at Queenwood. Acting Principal Mrs Moore and
incoming Principal Mrs McConaghy share insights on academic excellence, a rich cocurricular program, and the significance of community.
And finally, we are excited to introduce our 2023 QPA Committee, who began the year with a wonderful celebration at the QPA Welcome Back Cocktail Party and joined us for the launch of the newly formed Queenwood Connections.
As I say goodbye to a school and community to whom I owe so much, I am grateful for my nine years as Principal.
It has, of course, been a matter of blood, sweat and tears at times, but it has also been a labour of love. This is a hidden gem – a school full of life and laughter and learning and unexpected beauty and goodness. It has been my task and my honour to polish the gem for these few years, and I entrust it into the hands of my successors with great confidence for what is to come.
Per aspera ad astra!
Elizabeth Stone, PrincipalKATHERINE BENNELL-PEGG
“I loved that the school motto was the same as NASA’s: Per Aspera ad Astra. Through struggles to the stars.”
6
A Canvas of Possibilities
CLAIRE HARRISON
“Visual Arts is a place to inculcate creativity in our students and to prepare them for the challenges they will face in coming years.”
21
“We
“Courage
“Making friends takes courage as it isn’t always easy or doesn’t come naturally.”
“Miss
Katherine is a Space Engineer and the first person to be trained as an astronaut under the Australian flag. Upon graduation from Astronaut Basic Training at the European Astronaut Centre in early 2024, Katherine will become a qualified astronaut, ready for mission assignment to the International Space Station and even to the Moon.
HEAD OF VISUAL ARTS
Since 2021, Claire Harrison has been a Visual Arts teacher at Queenwood and as of 2023, has held the position of Head of Visual Arts. Coming from a family of artists and art teachers, she is deeply passionate about all aspects of Visual Arts, including practical applications and curatorial endeavours. Claire is actively involved in her children’s school and serves as the Vice President of the P&C. Apart from her love for Art, she is also dedicated to supporting the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
YEAR 12 TECHNOLOGY CAPTAIN
Misima is a Year 12 student and a Technology Captain for 2023. She also is a member of the cocurricular program QUTE Electric Vehicle Project team. Misima hopes to pursue her interest in Design and Technology or Marine Biology at University next year.
YEAR 6 STUDENTS
Sofia, Alessandra and Lucinda are Year 6 students and each are involved in a variety of cocurricular activities including debating, music and sport. They share stories of their experiences since joining the Junior School.
Jihyun (Bonna) Yoon
YEAR 11 STUDENT
Bonna is a Year 11 student who commenced at Queenwood in 2019. Bonna is one of our Music Scholars, playing piano, clarinet and bassoon. In 2022 she completed her Licentiate in Music, Australia (LMusA) on bassoon and will have completed her piano and clarinet LMusA in the next year, making her the first secondary student to attain three degrees from the AMEB.
Misato Mizuno
YEAR 10 STUDENT
Misato is a Year 10 student commencing at Queenwood in Year 7. Misato is also of our Music Scholars, playing piano and violin. She currently showcases her talent in music festivals around the world and will be taking the stage in Finland and Belgium in July 2023.
Marise McConaghy
PRINCIPAL FROM 2024
Mrs McConaghy, highly experienced in girls’ education, leadership development, and community engagement, is the Principal of Strathcona Girls
Grammar School in Melbourne
and will join Queenwood in January 2024. Recognised for academic excellence, innovation, and wellbeing initiatives, she has fostered a vibrant learning community that empowers young women for a changing world. With a background in English and Drama, she values the arts and cultivates bravery, thoughtfulness, and empathy. As Chair of the Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australasia, she represents Australia on the board of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools, advocating for over 550 schools and 350,000 students worldwide.
Belinda Moore
ACTING PRINCIPAL
Belinda Moore, Deputy Principal at Queenwood since 2021, will serve as Acting Principal for Queenwood for semester 2 of 2023. With a background in girls’ education and leadership roles at Brigidine College, SCECGS Redlands and AHIGS, she is dedicated to fostering girls’ intellectual, social and emotional growth in a supportive and adventurous environment.
Editorial
EDITOR Ruby Rose
COPYWRITER
Kate Pollitt and Ruby Rose
LAYOUT & DESIGN Anna Hair
ILLUSTRATION
hellorosamorgan.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
jamesgreen.com.au
rachelgutierrezphotography.com
instagram.com/mcmanxmedia
With thanks to our contributors who gave up their time to share their insights, wisdom and experience with us.
ABOVE: Five Queenwood Senior students were selected as the Australian Junior Womens Coxed Four with two of our coaches to compete at the Junior World Rowing Championships in Paris, August 2023.
Re: Article on Fiona & my mother’s connection with Queenwood
Thank you so much for sending us the QNews in which appeared the excellent article you wrote on Fiona and my mother’s connection with Queenwood. My wife and I were most impressed with the article and we have proudly received a number of phone calls from Fiona’s friends and “old girls” from our era.
PETER
& CHRISTINE NETTHEIMRe: Enjoys receiving the printed copy
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ABOVE: Q1992 alumna and researcher Professor Gemma Figtree was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia.
I am always amazed at the wonderful opportunities and achievements that the young ladies have at Queenwood.
RHONDA WILLINGS Q1970
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“Each one of you has the courage to climb your biggest mountain. If you’re scared to say something – say it. If you’re scared to do something – do it.”
MISIMA BURNS’ THE TRIUMPH OF COURAGE, MORE ON PAGE 25
If ever there was a former student who personifies our motto ‘Per Aspera ad Astra’ translated as ‘Through struggles to the stars’, it is Katherine Bennell-Pegg (Q2002).
Currently, Katherine is undergoing training to become the first Australian astronaut under the Australian flag, preparing to venture into space as part of an International Space Station mission, or perhaps even beyond.
Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Director of Space Technology at the Australian Space Agency, is the first Australian woman to be trained as an astronaut by an international space agency. Unlike previous instances where Australian astronauts have represented other nations via dual citizenship, Katherine is training as an Australian under our flag. She is training from April this year until mid-2024. She remains an employee of the Australian Space Agency, where she has worked since the end of 2019.
When she completes her intensive training, Katherine will receive basic training certification, a prerequisite for assignment to longduration missions to the International Space Station, and Artemis missions to the Moon.
In 2019 Katherine (Q2002) returned to Queenwood to address and inspire students about her journey to the stars at the 2019 Queenwood Speech Night. Following is an excerpt from her speech.
“In 2019, we celebrated 50 years since the first manned moon landing, when three people sat atop what was then the tallest, most powerful rocket, called the Saturn V. A few seconds after the rocket roared into life, the astronauts were jolted hard back into their seats and soon reached a speed 11 times faster than a bullet. They soared to the Moon, not completely sure whether their lander would survive touch down. They set humanity’s first footprints on another world, as hoped, and returned safely home.
What an incredible feat. Imagine that effort, in a world that did not yet have the internet or even Instagram, 3D printers or even post-it notes, desktop computers or even calculators.
Newton’s first law of motion, written 330 years ago, states that an object remains at rest or continues its state of motion until an external force acts upon it. Newton’s ancient laws were the basis upon which these rockets and spaceships were built and flown.
But they were originally written in Latin, where the word “motus” was used for motion. In Latin, “motus” also means motivation. Hence, we remain in a state of inertia until we are motivated, by ourselves or others, to do something differently.
What motivated such explorers and, indeed, society to continue to invest its limited resources into such huge endeavours? I believe we can answer in two parts: tangible and emotional.
The tangible reasons include return on investment, growing industry and jobs by developing the
technology to create space-based services to improve life on Earth, like GPS, weather forecasting, bushfire management; and spinoffs like wireless headphones and invisible braces; plus speeding up advances in precision engineering, medicines and complex system management.
These are all important and make space exploration sustainable but I don’t think that on their own they fully encapsulate the reason.
We humans have a powerful emotional compulsion to explore, to satisfy our curiosity and to leave a legacy. We seek a higher purpose. It is this that inspires us, especially when young, to have dreams that guide our lives.
My dream has always been to explore outer space. As a child I loved to look up at the stars and would get this wonderful feeling, just for a moment, when I felt in awe of how large the universe is and how much remains to be discovered. I wanted to stand on the surface of those new worlds, to look upon new horizons with my own eyes.
So I set out to find out how.
Major Tim Peake, there are three main ways to become an astronaut.
1. Apply to your country’s space program, and work hard to be a good candidate.
2. Become a billionaire and fund your own way.
3. Become rich, and when you eventually die send your ashes into orbit.
I chose option 1.
But becoming an astronaut is not something that can be reached
on a linear career path. Almost any STEM profession can be eligible, and there’s no astronaut university program! There might be just a couple of chances to apply during a career, or none. What I have done is maximise my chances by working hard and living internationally to achieve the most sought-after qualifications and skills.
Whether I ever become an astronaut or not, I will never regret striving to do so. I have and will remain committed to help explore outer space from Earth and furthering the vision for space utilisation to improve quality of life on Earth.
I have had a really wonderful time doing this, first as a space engineer and then more recently as a space program manager.
Some pinch-me moments have included the thrill of watching the first launch with a payload I helped build, floating weightless inside a zero-G plane with astronauts, and creating together with my colleagues, from the first seed of an idea, a new part of the International Space Station that isn’t just technically novel but also will demonstrate a new way of doing space business by operating commercially.
In November 2019, I relocated back to Australia, having been overseas for 11 years, to join the newly formed Australian Space Agency. It was and continues to be a privilege to have an instrumental role in shaping Australia’s rapidly growing space sector.
I am especially excited that, to build capability, Australia will participate in the next great human
spaceflight endeavour, called Artemis. The aim is to return astronauts to the lunar surface – including the first woman –by 2024, and then go on to Mars.
During my years at Queenwood, it was fitting to me that we had a space-related motto: ‘Per aspera ad astra’. Through struggles to the stars. I think Miss Rennie articulated it best when she said:
“Strength and courage are necessary, for the highest and best are not attained without struggle… there is so much that needs reforming in the world today, so many wrongs to be righted, so many poor and sick to be tended, so many weak to be protected. Are not these high adventures which call for women of strength, and courage, and purpose?”
I’m so proud to work in a field that can help address some of our greatest challenges.
Some things hold true: scientific laws and humanity’s need for emotional fulfilment. But some things change. 50 years ago humans first set foot on the Moon. But 50 years from now the types of jobs and how you will live are unimaginable. How do you dream of being in a career that does not yet exist?
You can dream about the kind of person you will be (your values) and the grand challenges to which you will be dedicated (your purpose). And then write your own story – without limit on your imagination, or the audaciousness of your dream.” •
Katherineaddresses the Queenwood community at the 2019 Speech Night.
“My dream has always been to explore outer space. As a child I loved to look up at the stars and would get this wonderful feeling, just for a moment, when I felt in awe of how large the universe is and how much remains to be discovered.”
In 2019, Katherine graciously shared her journey and aspirations with Queenwood. Recently, we had the privilege of speaking with her about her latest position as the Director of Space Technology at the Australian Space Agency. During our conversation, Katherine shared insightful reflections on her time at Queenwood, highlighting memorable moments and experiences that shaped her path. Moreover, she generously offered invaluable advice for individuals aspiring to pursue a career in the space industry. Join us as we delve into Katherine’s remarkable journey and gain valuable insights from her expertise and wisdom.
Reflecting on your time at Queenwood, can you share any memorable moments, memorable teachers, formative influences or any particular values you learnt?
When I first joined Queenwood as an excited Year 7 kid with an oversized uniform, I remember being in awe of how everyone joined in and sang at the school assembly, and sat down calmly to eat lunch than run around playing sports. But I soon felt at home. My years at Queenwood were foundational to my development as a person, as well as setting the basis for my ambition and career.
I loved that the school motto was the same as NASA’s: Per Aspera ad Astra. Through struggles to the stars. My time at Queenwood helped impart in me the value of being an all-rounder across topics, and in building both hard and soft skills. These are very relevant to desired characteristics of an astronaut!
Even though I was interested in a STEM career, the value of creativity and the arts at Queenwood was clear. Reading and exploring broad topics
through the adjacent fields helps create new ideas and fosters originality – something that is very important for science and engineering. This perspective helped me to later propose innovative projects that I was funded to pursue – such as augmented reality for astronaut training, investigating graphene uses in space, new kinds of space missions and instruments.
Queenwood’s teaching of the value of service helped me to realise that it’s best to frame your dreams as something you want ‘to contribute’ rather than a role you want ‘to be’ when choosing what you’d like to do as a career. It also helped me have the interest and confidence to later join the Army Reserves, and volunteer in the NSW State Emergency Service, Engineers Without Borders Australia, and Surf Life Saving SA.
During my time at Queenwood, I never questioned that women could pursue whatever passion they chose. For me, the environment of an all-girls school meant that I didn’t feel pressured by any gender norms or perceive any barriers to working in traditionally male-dominated fields or teams. By the time I reached university I had sufficient grounding to be confident in the face of any related challenges.
One of my most memorable moments was being told I was Head Prefect and having the chance to step into that role. It was a surprise and also intimidating, but it gave me the chance to step outside my comfort zone and understand what it means to be a ‘first amongst equals’ in leading my peers. It built on my experience in sports, as Basketball Captain, and during school camps. Through all those I learned how important and fun it is to lift up those around you and face challenges together, especially when things are tough
physically or mentally. The chance to work on my character was important to prepare me to be an astronaut. It is something that we need to constantly work on. I am so grateful to Mrs Bray and Mr Harper for their mentorship when I was Head Prefect, and also to our supportive Year 12 Coordinator Mrs Greenwell.
My most memorable teacher was my science teacher from most of Year 7 to 10, the late Ms (Jan) Westwood, who had a strong impact on my interest in science. She had a larger-than-life personality with great anecdotes and would throw us Fantales whenever we found a mistake in her worksheets. This was a nice motivator to keep ahead of the class! She caught her hair on fire when teaching us Bunsen Burner safety. I am still not sure if she did it on purpose to make a point or not but it certainly left an impression and we had very safe labs after that.
I still laugh about the geography trip to the Hunter Valley, where our teachers poetically described the wine they were tasting for us to take notes about. This was in Year 11, the age where we started to really see and build relationships with the teachers as people.
I found extracurricular activities were the best way to make and grow friendships, and enjoyed many on offer, including Tildesley Tennis (and our associated ‘friendly’ rivalries with the rowers), basketball, netball, junior debating, drama (scriptwriting), and music where I played keyboard in the band for a little while.
After school, while at Sydney University, I remained connected to Queenwood through my younger sisters Sarah and Natalie, and as a sports coach, referee or umpire for basketball, netball, and tennis. I have the fondest memories of my time there and remain close with many of my former classmates. >>
“I loved that the school motto was the same as NASA’s: Per Aspera ad Astra. Through struggles to the stars.”
In recent media interviews you have referenced a teacher who asked you to write down what you wanted to do for your future career, and we understand you said “Astronaut”. Can you provide more context around that moment, and do you know who the teacher was?
I can’t remember that exact teacher unfortunately – but it was something we did as a year group, supported by our year coordinator. We were asked to fill a form out for our preferred careers – which is what I referenced in the media interviews where I said I wrote down one career on the form and no other. This was around Year 8.
Following filling out the form, each student had a session with a teacher and our parents where we were to discuss what we put down. It was the first time that I researched what it would really take. And I went on the 1990s internet and found a single website that laid out options, including things like PhDs in maths or physics, being a military test pilot, and so on. So, I then set out to explore what out of those things would interest me the most.
It says a lot about the school that when I pitched being an astronaut, that I wasn’t patronised, but rather was set off on the path to learn what that would take. I translated my dreams into goals, then adapted them as I learned more along the way. And now here we are! •
You have recently spoken with Year 12 student Ellenah R who has similar interests and ambitions to yourself. Can you share some advice for other students that may also want to work in the field of space?
Study hard. The better you do and more you understand, the more doors open for you.
Try out different types of roles in the area you are interested in. Only by having a go can you test what you enjoy and also find new types of roles you might not otherwise have been aware of.
Work on your character, how you contribute to teams, your leadership skills. Get outside your comfort zone and understand how you react, and work on that.
Build tolerance to work with lots of types of people and personalities, and in international, intercultural and interdisciplinary environments.
Don’t worry about not being the smartest in the room. There are many ways to bring something to a solution and we all bring unique perspectives. If you’re passionate, then go for it and keep trying out different ways to be involved.
There are many opportunities internationally now, as well as in Australia, to be involved. Students can now even put experiments on the International Space Station (ISS), e.g. some schools are developing small ‘CubeSats’ the size of lunch boxes.
Look for the intersection of what you really enjoy, and what job in space actually suits you. Space needs all sorts of careers – it’s an entire industry. You can be in marketing, law, sciences (almost any type!), engineering (also almost any type!), program management, medicine, business, art, investment, etc.
Reach out to potential mentors. (Nice one Ellenah!)
“It says a lot about the school that when I pitched being an astronaut, that I wasn’t patronised, but rather was set off on the path to learn what that would take.”BELOW: 2013, Katherine loading the space harpoon prototype in its test facility at Airbus DS in Stevenage, UK. Harpoons are an approach that could be used to remove dead satellites from orbit and prevent the build-up of space debris.
Our unique location, with its stunning views and modern facilities, fosters both learning and wellbeing. Generations of students have enjoyed the magnificent views from our original location on Mandolong Road. Today, Queenwood girls continue to embrace the splendour of the local surroundings, whether engaging in beach-based physical education activities, drawing inspiration from the captivating water and sky, or even snorkelling at nearby rock shelves to delve into the study of marine biology. The Junior School provides everything necessary for young girls in their formative years, including well-equipped learning resources, play areas, and a well resourced library and theatre. We approached the Heads of Departments to share their insights on our facilities and how they enhance both their lessons and students’ learning experience, as well as their overall wellbeing.
LARA HARVEY
HEAD OF PDHPE
Our sport facilities and beautiful local environment play a crucial role in our students’ physical and emotional wellbeing. Regular PDHPE lessons are conducted at Balmoral Beach, where activities such as touch football, athletics, fitness, yoga, and wellbeing take place against the backdrop of this stunning location. Gratitude and mindfulness are incorporated into our curriculum, with meditation and journalling being encouraged to support students’ mental health. Evidence shows that enhanced wellbeing leads to improved learning outcomes, and our facilities and school location allow us to prioritise these for both students physical and emotional health. With a wide range of sporting facilities and easy access our students can engage in regular physical activity which promotes focus, alertness, and overall wellbeing. Queenwood’s diverse range of options, from yoga to lifesaving, nurture the physical, social, and emotional wellbeing of our students and caters to different abilities and interests.
AMY CLAY ACTING HEAD OF SPORT
We are fortunate to have outstanding sports facilities that contribute to the growth and development of our students in cocurricular sports. These facilities include a well-maintained 25m swimming pool, and our aquatic facilities cater to various activities such as swim lessons, squad training, water polo, and Junior School & Senior School PDHPE lessons, while our hosting of IGSA Saturday water polo events and CIS water polo trials adds to our vibrant sports culture. The multi-purpose court provides a versatile space for netball, basketball, indoor hockey, and futsal, offering both indoor and outdoor training options. Our fitness centre is equipped with a range of free weights, machines, and cardio equipment, serving as a hub for strength and conditioning training, and overall fitness for students and staff. Additionally, our off-site facilities are dedicated to rowing and tennis, with the Queenwood Rowing Shed offering access to Middle Harbour’s pristine waters with a fleet of over 40 rowing boats, and the Tennis Centre at Oxford Falls featuring 12 courts and hosting IGSA Saturday Tennis events.
ANDREW DRAPER HEAD OF ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES & ENGINEERING (ATE) In ATE we have huge variety of projects, from electronics to traditional woodwork, amongst many others.
Students learn to code in Arduino, and we are well stocked with electronic hardware and expertise, allowing them to fulfill their coding and design requirements to the highest standard. This access to Arduino devices and accessories has fuelled an enormous increase in digital literacy and the incorporation of coding into a wide variety of different projects.
During Year 10 Science of Design course, students take advantage of our harbour front setting, developing boats and submarines which are tested in the waters of Balmoral.
Our outdoor, undercover work areas are a pleasant and practical way of bringing student lessons into the open air. This space is also used by the QUTE team as they restore and rebuild a 1975 Suzuki Ute, converting it to electric drive along the way.
Boasting a rich and diverse performing arts program with excellent facilities, allows students to delve into the realms of theatre, dance, and film. The Drama Studio, equipped with professional-grade lighting and sound systems, serves as both a teaching and performance space, hosting various events and productions. It provides an intimate setting for students to showcase their talents and establish a strong actor-audience connection. The Astra Theatre, with its top-notch lighting, sound systems, and motorised orchestra pit, is the premier performance space seating up to 600 audience members and hosting the school’s biennial musical. Additionally, the upcoming Green Screen Nook, installed in Term 3, will provide students with an opportunity to explore TV presenting and film editing, gaining valuable skills in the field of film and TV.
Our school offers a comprehensive range of facilities and resources to support students’ musical learning both in the classroom and cocurricular programs. We provide a fully resourced instrumental program for girls in Years 3 to 6, with access to a wide selection of instruments, including professional quality orchestral instruments and a variety of percussion resources. For creative music writing and production, we have dedicated studios with cutting-edge technology. Our extensive music library houses over 2000 music scores, allowing students to explore diverse genres and expand their repertoire. We have two theatres, Astra and Galaxy, equipped with advanced lighting and audio systems, as well as dedicated rehearsal spaces with optimal acoustics. Across both campuses, we accommodate approximately 200 private music lessons every week, supported by multiple practice studios, fully equipped classrooms, and a rehearsal room.
The Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) program offers students the opportunity to develop problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity skills. Our practical, hands-on approach prepares students for future careers through courses such as Mandatory Technology, Design and Technology, Science of Design, Textiles Technology, and Textiles and Design. Our facilities enable students to visualise their designs using CAD programs like Adobe Creative Cloud and Fusion360 and utilise laser cutting for a wide range of materials. We also provide access to 3D printers and traditional woodworking tools, expanding students’ practical skill sets. In Textiles and Design, students learn pattern cutting, modification, and construction using sewing machines, while additional resources like heat presses, dying stations, digital embroidery machines, and screen-printing facilities allow for customised and embellished work. The integration of decorative techniques and laser cutting further enhances students’ creativity and skill development.
Our Art and Design campus serves as a vibrant creative hub, housing Visual Arts, Technology and Applied Studies, and Textile Design. Our specialist facilities are designed to support student learning and development in the visual arts. Equipped with industry-level materials and equipment, our spacious art studios provide students with the opportunity to explore various mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, and digital media. The presence of specialist equipment such as printing presses, a digital photography studio, a darkroom, a laser cutter, and a ceramic kiln enhances students’ technical skills and artistic expression. Furthermore, our beautiful location at Balmoral Beach inspires students to incorporate the outdoor environment into their artworks, fostering an appreciation for the site’s natural beauty and history. This integration of the locale enhances students’ enjoyment and connection to Queenwood.
ANNI
Nestled in a picturesque harbourside location, the Junior School is surrounded by nature, including ovals, parks, bushland, and coves, offering a conducive environment for learning and wellbeing. The innovatively designed campus features wellequipped multipurpose learning spaces, specialist classrooms for languages, technology, art, and music, a dedicated drama studio, a 300-seat Galaxy Theatre for assemblies and performances, a state-of-the-art library, and two multi-purpose courts. With separate playgrounds for Infants and Primary students, the school also provides raised vegetable beds and custom-built equipment to foster imagination, social interaction, and motor skills through play.
The Art Studio is a spacious and well-lit area that can accommodate two classes. The studio is equipped in advance to maximise lesson time, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in creative activities. With the aid of a smartboard, students can explore artworks from around the world, visiting renowned institutions like MoMA and the Tate Modern. The program emphasises responding to artworks across different times, places, and cultures, fostering knowledge, understanding, and connections with other areas of the curriculum. The studio holds an extensive range of resources, enabling students to explore various art forms such as drawing, painting, printing, collage, textiles, ceramics, and digital media. Quality materials and specialised equipment support students’ expertise and skill development. From Kindergarten, students engage in playful processes including stamping and mono or gelli-plate printing, progressing to more advanced techniques like intaglio and screen printing. These rich experiences foster excitement and meaningful engagement with art, inspiring young artists to explore their creativity. •
A liberal education at Queenwood encourages the development of a courageous outlook coupled with creative thinking. Visual Arts encourages a suppleness of mind, a toleration for ambiguity and a taste for nuance. It allows students the space to dream, ponder and experiment; they are given the freedom to deliberate until they fully realise their ideas.
In the words of the inimitable Georgia O’Keeffe, “making one’s world in any of the arts takes courage.”
Our students use their Visual Arts Diaries to develop their ideas at an embryonic stage. The ideas take shape when the artist experiences ‘reflexive oscillation’ between the ideas and the marks, receiving feedback as the marks appear on the page, prompting further thought and mark-making. Ideas are investigated, refined, practised, discarded, combined where alternatives are sought and possibilities explored.
Visual Arts equips students with a range of skills in traditional and contemporary artmaking techniques, materials, technologies, and processes. Our Year 12 Art Captains are examples of how the ideas can be manifested in a variety of ways. Danni T, Year 12, prefers to work mostly with oils on canvas, specialising in realism and portraiture.
For Danni, she has come to understand the humanity that Art can bring.
“When I won second place in the painting and calligraphy section of the ‘Beautiful China in my Eyes’ competition in 2021, a lady I did not know told me that my artwork was her favourite out of all the works on display because it was captivating and prompted her to reflect on her heritage. Then and there, we bonded over my artwork, and the potential impact my work had to influence and affect people. It was the most amazing, validating feeling that viewing my artwork resulted in a meaningful experience for someone, and made all the hours and pain I put into my artwork worth it.”
Grace W, Year 12, digitally illustrates her work, leads the Digital Art club on a Tuesday lunchtime and sells her work online.
“… what started as $2 art commissions for my online friends, somehow turned into quite a lucrative side-hustle which has currently allowed me to reach over 50 different clients from all over the world. My commissions can range anywhere from $25-1000 USD.”
In undertaking the Visual Arts course, our students develop a range of transferable skills that can be then applied to other subject areas. These include:
Seeing the world from different perspectives, whether by developing skills in drawing architecture from one and two-point perspective (Year 10) or learning about the impact of war and trauma on civilians in the study of the ‘artist as a social critic’ in Year 12.
In terms of solving problems and idea development, creativity is the secret ingredient. Year 8 are grappling with how to realise their 2D design into a 3D Surrealist ceramic sculpture.
Visual literacy and text-based skills are taught and assessed throughout all year groups, allowing students to become artists, art critics and art historians in writing about their own work and the work of others.
Creativity involves different modes of thought, combining convergent thinking (focused, analytic, detailed) with divergent thinking (diffuse, free-flowing, imaginative). A meeting point between creative and critical thinking is realised in how a student literally ‘draws’ connections in their Visual Arts Diaries.
To further showcase this idea, former parent Kristen Proutt, mother of Chelsea (Q2021), shared:
The lessons and skills your daughter will learn in completing a [major] artwork are transferrable to any project in any industry. Let her know that she is having to employ real work skills in order to successfully complete the project and that she should feel very proud of this. After all, by completion, she will have:
a) Come up with concept and defined the scope of the project.
b) Scheduled the project and defined the project deadlines.
c) Committed to the project over a fairly long duration.
d) Engaged in regular self evaluation of the project’s progress in terms of quality, time line etc.
e) Been in regular communication with the teacher (her team) and had to remain flexible.
f) Felt the satisfaction that comes from hard work and a well executed project. Visual Arts is a place to inculcate creativity in our students and to prepare students for the challenges, economic and otherwise, nations will face in coming years.
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Shanghai Lady (2021), by Danni T (Year 12); Perspective helps develop a sense of empathy. Illustrations by Helana D and Peggy X (Year 10); Sculpture develops problem solving and critical thinking shown by Gordon H (Year 8); Digital illustration by Grace W (Year 12).
Furthermore, artists have the potential to collaborate in exciting and innovative ways. Year 10 Visual Arts students are about to start a site-specific art installation, facilitated by artist-designer-educator Sarah Fordham. They will explore and document the Balmoral foreshore and history of the site using traditional media such as drawing, painting and printmaking. Their imagery will then be digitally manipulated to create a series of panels to be hung in the Senior School Campus at 47 Mandolong. This is an opportunity for students to see the relationships that can be fostered by the cross-pollination of art and design.
At Queenwood, we encourage and reward our students’ creativity, autonomy and the ability to engage in academic work, expressed through both art-making and critical writing. Studying art history helps students develop a deep understanding of the historical and cultural contexts in which art is created. This knowledge can be useful for pursuing careers in academia, museums, galleries or other art-related fields.
There are myriad career opportunities that our girls might want to explore if they enjoy the study of Visual Arts but don’t want to become an artist.
Of course, within the art industry, there are careers that involve creating original artwork, promoting and selling it, and exhibiting in museums and galleries. However, there are also careers that focus on educating others about art or helping individuals express themselves through artistic media. Beyond the art world, artistic vision and design skills are essential in fields such as architecture, fashion, media, film and theatre. With so many options available, a career in art can offer endless possibilities for creative expression and personal fulfillment. Regardless of which career or area of study our girls choose once they leave the sleeping waters of Balmoral, their time in Visual Arts will foster creativity and ‘creativity is essential in a global economy that needs a workforce that is knowledgeable, imaginative and innovative’. •
AUCTION HOUSE GALLERY MUSEUM
Client Services Operations Curation
Marketing Registrar Development
Events Communications Touring
Commercial Artist Liaison Conservation
Client Strategy Exhibitions Archiving
Digital Finance Education
Bids Partnerships Memberships
PMO Human Resources Sponsorships
REFERENCES: Why study art? | Tate Gustina, C., & Sweet, R. (2014). Creatives Teaching Creativity. International Journal of Art & Design Education, 33(1), 46–54. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-8070.2014.01778.x
I still remember the feeling of my heart racing and my teeth grinding as I walked onto the Astra Theatre stage for the first time to speak. There were a lot of people watching me, not paying much attention or really caring, but to me it felt like every eye in the entire theatre was on me.
Ihavestruggled with anxiety for a very long time. For years I did not go to a single assembly or crowded event, and if I did, I had panic attacks. I hardly participated in life, and even simple things like going to class, walking my dogs and shopping became daunting tasks. Some of the struggles I went through really impacted my daily life. For a couple of years I couldn’t wear a t-shirt or swimmers in public, I felt too exposed; it seemed like wearing a jumper or a jacket was the only thing shielding me from my fears. Initiating conversations with others made me extremely nervous as I was constantly worried about their opinions of me. I couldn’t tolerate someone sitting behind me, only being able to sit at the back of my classes, and if I was unable to do this, I would panic.
I couldn’t live like this; I had dreams and aspirations for my future. I wanted to join in life, I didn’t want to watch it from the sidelines. My anxiety was holding me back from participating in life, it was holding me back from fun. I needed this to change – I needed courage.
Courage is not battling a bear when you have never fought before – who do you think will win? Instead courage is taking small steps and sometimes leaps into situations where you are scared. First you look at a picture of the bear, then a video, then a real-life bear behind a wall, and slowly you will conquer your fear. Put simply in this quote by Mary Anne Radmacher: ‘Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.’
So I did. I started small, I tried walking into class a couple minutes late instead of not going at all, I sat at the back of assemblies, I tried talking to people more. And while these might seem simple, for me these were really hard. Some days I succeeded and some days I failed. I had months where I would give up. But slowly, I got to a point where I didn’t think twice about something that had previously made me anxious. Things were not perfect, but they were better.
One day a teacher asked me if I would feel comfortable speaking briefly in assembly, it was a couple of sentences that had been written for me, and he assured me that there was no pressure. I said yes and was really scared. But I had been given an opportunity, I wanted to prove myself and I wanted to face my biggest fear.
It was one sentence. It was a defining moment in my life where I could prove to myself that I could do it. I rounded up every inch of courage I could find. And I read it. I messed up a few words and I cried after. But I did it. For so long it was the highest mountain in the world, the biggest challenge that I would ever face. And now? – I have climbed that mountain; I have risen to the challenge. I still struggle with anxiety and I still get nervous, but I have done what I thought was impossible. My journey with anxiety is not over and my need for courage will never be.
Each one of you has the courage to climb your biggest mountain. If you’re scared to say something – say it. If you’re scared to do something – do it.
Courage. It is a quality that we all possess, if only we have the courage to tap into it. •
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. As Technology Captain Misima writes about the importance of taking the leap to tap into your courage.
MISIMA BURNS YEAR 12 STUDENT TECHNOLOGY CAPTAIN
“I wanted to join in life, I didn’t want to watch it from the sidelines.”
WhenI arrived at the school gate, a rush of anxiety and tension flooded my body. As lunch approached, I couldn’t help but be nervous about who I would sit with. I didn’t know where I would fit in, and most of all who would accept me for me. Butterflies fluttered in my stomach as I approached the group of girls. They were sitting in a circle and they made it seem like I could not enter. I could hear their laughter bubble in my ears, how they giggled at people’s jokes and snorted when eating their lunch. I’d never felt so nervous. While preparing to speak, I thought of all the infinite things I could say. My lips cracked as they widened into a questionable oval, but no sound came out except for a small peep, apparently enough to catch the group’s attention. Sweeping up my feet I retreated with embarrassment. Are they talking about me behind my back? I wonder if they are giggling uncontrollably. How could I tell them what I wanted to say?
The cold cement slipped under my feet as the wind whistled around me and my body spun to face the group. A foreboding feeling crawled up my spine when, one by one, the friends’ heads swung to examine me and added even more tension to the situation. What had I got myself into? From my previous experiences, I knew how to keep going. Gripping all my courage, I faced my fear, “Can I sit with you?” I asked shyly in a small voice. “Okay!” they all replied in unison. A couple of girls shuffled over to make room for me. I sat down and waited for the awkward silence to break until someone asked what my name was. I said it confidently even though I almost stuttered gibberish. I’m glad I’ve made some new friends. Making friends takes courage as it isn’t always easy or doesn’t come naturally. I can vouch for the fact that sometimes it really makes a difference to be brave and just make the first move. •
“I didn’t know where I would fit in, and most of all who would accept me for me.”
Year 6 students bravely opened up about their deepest fears and the journey they embarked on to conquer them. From the challenges of forging new friendships to the daunting prospect of leaving their families for school camp, these girls fearlessly shared tales of resilience and bravery.
Palms sweaty, heart racing, thousands of possibilities rush through my head. I cannot think clearly and cannot think straight but must continue. Pressure’s on. The gun fires as I surge forward with no hesitation. I start strong with the wind in my face but as the race continues, I weaken. I see my opponents’ shadow getting closer and closer. Someone speeds past me. Suddenly I lose hope. Why am I even trying? What if I just stop? But then a burst of courage hits me hard. I will keep going.
To succeed in sport, whether it’s soccer, hockey, swimming, tennis, you need athletic ability and fitness but, most of all, courage. Courage is giving it a go despite your fears. It’s having the positive mental strength to venture forward even when you know the outcome might not be what you hope for. It’s facing extreme difficulty and pushing yourself to your limits. You see a courageous young girl stepping up onto the blocks, preparing for the race to come, but much more happens behind the scenes. Six am start, get out of bed, get dressed, grab a piece of toast and train. Training until 8am, red faced, hair messed. Sprint into the car, struggle into my uniform and arrive at school as the bell rings. It’s not just the courage to step up to the start line, it’s about the courage to persist in training for the race as this is what is needed to succeed. It’s about the courage to not give up when your goals don’t come easily. It’s sometimes literally the courage to stand back up when you fall. Sport is fraught with disappointments sometimes, but the rewards are also huge. What you learn in applying courage is the biggest prize for me. •
Camp. The “treacherous night dreaded by all” that we experience in Year Two quickly turns to some of the “most fun days of the year.” But of course, this change does not come easily – much courage must be summoned, and many obstacles must be overcome; literally and figuratively. Crying in cabins. Lying in lodges. Longing for loved ones. Those words preached by every teacher, ‘Step out of your comfort zone!’ Easy enough for them to say! I remember gripping strongly onto the pole that stands just too high in the air, tears streaming down my face. I didn’t know I could scream so loudly! My friends cheered me on, urging me to let out a slight chuckle, but I can’t do this, I just don’t have the... courage. I’d prefer to stay safely in my comfort zone, thanks! I think of how awful I would feel if I was the only girl in the grade who didn’t zip line, I think of the looks on my peers’ faces when they soared through the air; that’s what pushed me over the edge. Later, when asked what my favourite activity was at camp, I said the zip line. Courage isn’t just shown through thrilling activities but through what it takes to sleep in a different place for two whole nights. It’s about growing up and becoming more independent, even when this seems impossible. With each show of courage, the circumference of my comfort zone grows bigger. •
“With each show of courage, the circumference of my comfort zone grows bigger.”
Tap into the QUTE, our electric vehicle program, hear all about the Year 6 Transition Day at Senior School and tune in with our music scholars.
There has been a lot happening both inside and outside the classroom; here is a quick look at what the students have been up to…
Our QUTE Project is the restoration and electric conversion of a 1975 Suzuki Carry. This project is part of our ATE programs since early 2022. Some of the QUTE members reflect on their involvement in the program.
KIT VANNER AND MISIMA BURNS YEAR 12 STUDENTS
The QUTE (Queenwood-Ute) is an initiative to encourage students to pursue mechanics and STEM. The QUTE started its life as a Suzuki Carry in the 1970s. Since then, it has spent much time sitting in a field, rusting out, and waiting to be brought back to life. Over the past year, however, we have been transforming it into a sleek, aesthetically refurbished car.
We started the electrical conversion in March 2022, by taking out the pieces we don’t want or need, such as the radiator, clutch and gear box, as well as fixing up the rusted frame. We also removed both axles, the brake lines and suspension to be restored. Other than this restoration work, and expert work such as the sandblasting and welding, the electrical conversion has been entirely undertaken by a team of 20 girls, from Years 9 to 12. This has included all the dashboard wiring, carpentry on the back deck and reconstruction of the back axle and brakes. Through the process of dismantling and refurbishing the car, we have gained valuable skills including rust safety, pressure washing, sanding, sand blasting, painting and riveting.
Most recently, we have been installing the front and back lights and temporarily wiring them up for display. Additionally, we have had the pleasure of receiving visits from David Dellagiacoma, a Senior Medical Manufacturing Engineer, who has been helping us design a motor mount. From this point, the QUTE ’s electric conversion will really take off, with the re-mounting of the foot and handbrakes, and the mounting of the electric motor. It’s exciting to see the progress we have made, so next time you’re visiting the Senior School Art and Design Campus –come and take a look! •
Reflection on: Fully
BELLA MINUCOS YEAR 9 STUDENT
Earlier this year, the QUTE team received an invitation to Fully Charged, the world’s number one home energy and electric vehicle show. There, we had the opportunity to interact with many different organisations and gain more knowledge about electric cars like the QUTE . We were very proud to display to the public what we have been working ridiculously hard on. It was very validating to see interest in our project and it was also a lot of fun to discuss, explain and answer questions about the QUTE . Attending the show allowed us to find out about other projects and even learn techniques to enhance our own work going forward. •
To ease the transition to high school, Year 6 girls attended a Transition Day at the Senior School campus. They enjoyed a rotating timetable with lessons in Science, Drama, Art, Music, and Wellbeing. Reflecting on the experience, some girls shared their favourite part, excitedly anticipating the next chapter
What were you the biggest fan of?
What were you the biggest fan of?
What were you the biggest fan of?
What were you the biggest fan of?
What were you the biggest fan of?
What were you the biggest fan of?
What were you the biggest fan of?
What is your earliest music memory?
My earliest memory was playing a toy piano, when I was two years old, and ever since then, I’ve been passionate about music.
Do you remember your first performance?
During my time in Korea, I gave my first performance playing a clarinet piece for my clarinet after school club. I recall being quite nervous because it was my first performance in front of my mother and parents.
Are you from a musical family?
When my parents were in high school, they played the guitar, my mother has since stopped, my dad still plays. I also enjoy playing the guitar with my dad.
What are your plans for the music program this year and upcoming school years?
Just to do my best before I graduate and to take part in as many programs as possible. I truly love playing in an ensemble, but I also love to play with the music teachers. I had a special opportunity to do this at the Music Showcase Concert, where I performed Concerto for Clarinet with the Staff Jazz Ensemble.
Are you going to stay part of the music community after school? What are your future plans?
After high school, I want to continue studying music abroad, preferably in Germany or London. I have so many professors I want to study with and places I want to perform. My long term goal is to perform with a variety of international orchestras.
What are you listening to at the moment?
My favourite piece at the moment is the Mahler Symphony No. 5 in C-Sharp Minor IV movement.
Do you have any advice for other music students?
The music department are such a valuable, supportive team, I promise you will learn lots from them. If you wish to join the orchestra or band, I highly recommend it – we always need more musicians! •
YEAR 10
VIOLIN AND PIANO
What is your earliest music memory?
Before I began playing violin and piano, I remember as a 3 year old watching the Babies Proms performed by the Ku-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra and I was mesmerised by the violins. This was the starting point of my musical journey. I told my parents, I wanted to learn the violin, at age 6, my wish came true, and I began violin lessons.
Do you remember your first performance?
My first violin performance was a solo, when I was 7 years old. I was only one of a few students, in a Suzuki combined studio concert. I played “Hunter’s Chorus” which is a piece in Suzuki Book 2. I remember my violin teacher was there and told me that “whatever happens, you have to keep playing”. This is important advice that I follow today.
My first piano performance was when I was 11 years old. I played in my piano teacher’s studio concert, I was used to “performing”, because of my experience with violin performance.
Are you from a musical family?
No, not at all. My parents love karaoke, but that’s the extent of their musicality!
What are your plans for the music program this year and upcoming school years?
This year, I am honored to be accepted to perform playing the violin in the US and Europe. In addition, have been nominated to perform the piano at the Emerging Young Artists Program at Theme and Variations later this year. My goal for performance, is to perform with conviction, and to create music which reaches as many of the audience members as possible.
I am so thrilled and honored to be playing for these performances. I would like to extend my gratitude to my family, teachers, friends, and Queenwood for supporting my music journey.
Are you going to stay part of the music community after school? What are your future plans?
I am really passionate about music, so hope to continue the music path. Whether teaching or performing. I will also value the friendships and memories made.
What are you listening to at the moment?
I listen to all types of music. I mainly listen to the pieces I am playing at the time – one of my favourites right now is Dvořák’s Piano Quintet, Op. 18, No. 2; which I am performing at the upcoming music festivals. When I exercise, I love loud and fast-paced pop music. When I study, I can’t listen to classical, because my brain focuses on it, as I play it so often.
What do you do for fun outside of music?
Music is what I do for enjoyment, and is time consuming on top of school work. Outside, I enjoy spending time with my friends, and keeping in contact with family and friends in Europe and Japan. I also enjoy being immersed in nature, going to the beach and running.
Do you have any advice for other music students?
I think that music is something that should be from the heart and should be sincere. From each note you play and daily practice – it has to be from you, and for you. Music is very scary in the sense that it is transparent; you can feel the emotion of the performer. In my opinion, if you perform in music, it is important that you find what you absolutely love about it, and in every single note you play, you put that love and passion into it. •
MISATO MIZUNO PERFORMING VIOLIN IN THE 2023 MUSIC SHOWCASE
“At the entrance to the Lawrance building is the portrait in glass of Miss Lawrance, and underneath her portrait is one of her favourite quotes: ‘The path of a good woman is strewn with flowers but they spring up behind her, not before.’
As I look back on my time at Queenwood, you are the flowers on the path. In the years to come, I hope that you will not be shy, and will let me know from time to time how you are progressing. You will always carry my affection and hope for your future. And I hope that we will forever be woven into each other’s lives.”
Year 12 dress up for their final swimming carnival, 2023
Introducing Mrs Marise McConaghy, our new principal for 2024. With a focus on academic excellence, a rich cocurricular program, and fostering inclusivity, Mrs McConaghy aims to collaborate with the school community to deliver an exceptional educational experience at Queenwood.
Can you share with us your educational background and previous experience in school leadership roles?
I studied at the University of Queensland and the Queensland University of Technology and have been lucky enough to undertake short courses in places such as Harvard in the USA and in a few months’ time, Cambridge University in the UK. My background is in English/Humanities/Drama teaching, and I have a great love of reading, theatre, and dance. My journey into school leadership started when I took up a pastoral leadership position at Brisbane Girls Grammar where I moved ultimately to the position of Deputy Principal (Students) and then to overall Deputy Principal of the School.
>> Can you tell us about your role as the Chair of the Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australasia?
This Alliance was created from an idea of a Melbourne girls’ school principal nearly 30 years ago of uniting girls’ schools across the county to have strong voice for the education and empowerment of girls and women. Alliance advocates for and supports the distinctive world of girls’ schools in their provision of unparalleled opportunities for girls. As an organisation the Alliance has gone from strength to strength over the years and recently member schools voted unanimously to merge the Alliance with our North American counterpart. This merger unites Alliance’s 185 member schools across Australia and New Zealand with the International Coalition of Girls’ School membership bringing together over 550 girls’ schools across 21 countries representing 350,000 students. Thus, Alliance will keep its regional focus and services while also being part of a global network. My role as Chair has been to oversee the strategic direction and activities of Alliance and to work with the Executive Officer in problem solving through the challenges of merging two non-for-profit organisations across two countries.
What are you most proud of during your tenure as Principal at Strathcona Girls Grammar School?
Most of my sense of accomplishment from work comes from supporting people to develop, whether it be students or staff – or even parents as they grow in their understanding of how to best navigate life as parents of teenagers. So, for most of my career student and staff development were my main preoccupation. However, in these last ten years as principal despite not really being a ‘numbers person’, I also get a strong sense of satisfaction from seeing metrics in relation to enrolment, academic results, school attendance, participation in cocurricular, budget, and staff retention etc strengthen. In the end, of course, that
success goes back to people development, collaborating with those with different ways of thinking and creative intervention for improvement. I have enjoyed my work taking Strathcona Girls Grammar – a little-known, mid-sized, high achieving gem known for its pastoral care and kindness in the beautiful, leafy eastern suburbs - to putting it more front and centre in Melbourne and, to a lesser extent, across the country and more recently, globally in my role as Alliance Chair and on the ICGS board. My staff have assisted in this as they have gained confidence in presenting at conferences and writing in publications beyond the school gates.
How will you ensure that our school maintains a high standard of academic excellence while also fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment?
Brisbane Girls Grammar was consistently the highest performing girls’ school in Queensland every year that I was there. Strathcona is one of the top performing girls’ schools in Melbourne if you use the ATAR as a measurement of a high standard of academic excellence. I don’t use these ‘league tables’ as the most important way to consider what excellence in education is, but I realise its importance in the sense of providing students with a rigorous and challenging program and ultimately university options. More importantly though, is teaching young people to think critically and to back themselves – and learning and school generally while sometimes necessarily hard - should be fun, at least a lot of the time. I am a strong believer in the value of a rich cocurricular program which, to me must include sport, performing arts, debating, service and so on – these experiences are good for the holistic development of young people. Service is particularly important in schools such as Queenwood and Strathcona and should not be tokenistic and for CV building purposes. Feelings of positivity and empowerment where students are curious to learn and
prepared to do hard things and aim high, come from a setting where all kinds of learners with all kinds of interests feel safe, respected, cared for, connected, that they belong, and they are believed in. High expectations, sensible support (not too much, not too little) within the school, well designed curriculum, skilled teachers, and a shared love of learning – all of this is part of an inexact but powerful recipe for maintaining a culture where striving for excellence – whatever that means for each student and in whatever pursuit – is aspired to and honoured.
Is there anything else you would like the Queenwood community to know about your vision for our school and your role as principal?
I know Queenwood is an exceptional School already – that is why this role has attracted me. At this stage, when I don’t know the School well, I would not want to impose a vision onto it from my desk in Melbourne, but rather I want to learn about the School from the staff, parents and students, reflect, get a ‘feel’ for it and then work out – with key staff and stakeholders – what the School needs to build on from what the talented people before me have done.
What are you looking forward to with your move to Sydney?
Actually, getting to know and understand another girls’ school context and culture (and I am not just saying that!). I do love to look at water and the glittery Sydney Harbour is very appealing.
What will you miss from Melbourne?
The beautiful palette of autumnal tones as the season changes in autumn. I have gotten used to the cold and the wearing of scarves, coats, boots etc, but I won’t miss the lack of light in winter. Of course, I shall miss my three adult kids and; their partners (not to mention my new grandson) but they are busy, independent professional people and we are good at keeping in touch. My husband and I will commute back and forward to an extent.
What are you currently reading?
“Built to Dance” which is a memoir by Leanne Benjamin OBE about her extraordinary journey from a country town in Central Queensland to the major stages of the world as a leading ballerina. I learned ballet with her in Rockhampton, lived with one of our other ballet friends in London for a time, and our parents were friends. •
MRS MARISE M c CONAGHY ON THE COVER“I am a strong believer in the value of a rich cocurricular program which, to me must include sport, performing arts, debating, service and so on – these experiences are good for the holistic development of young people.”
Supporting students as they begin their Queenwood Senior School journey is paramount. Here, some of our 2023 Year 7 and 8 girls share their advice for starting Year 7.
Bring your diary everywhere with you. Getting to class on time can be hard sometimes. That’s why you should get organised and take your books out of your locker for the next two periods during each break so you’re ready to grab your books and go and get to your classes on time. Bring your diary everywhere with you; you will never know if your teacher will give you homework or assignments. Your diary is your best friend – you can use it to take notes, plan your day, check your timetable, and write your homework, assignments and when their due. I highly recommend you use it. •
Keep your diary near and your troubles will disappear. Year 7 is a hard time for many: new school, new friends and new teachers. This was the case for me, but I have found that your diary is an essential part of your high school life. When you transition to high school you have a lot more subjects to worry about. Your diary is essential because it will you help you stay organised, keep track of assignments and homework. It will also have your timetable inside so there is no need to stress about remembering which classroom you are in; you can just have a quick look at your diary and find your lesson. Queenwood does make the transition super easy, especially for new girls, but it’s up to you to stay organised and prepared for learning. •
Be prepared for the following two subjects. A tip for Year 7 is to always prepare your textbooks for the following subjects. Getting your textbooks ready for the next subjects means you can grab and go instead of digging through your locker in a hurry. Also, store your textbooks in a zipper binder. I use my Queenwood tote bag to put both my zipper binders for the next two subjects, so I do not need to carry them by hand. For example, if you forget to take your maths stuff and you arrive at your first class, you then have to go back to your locker, dig through it and are then late to class. So always prepare yourself for the following subjects. •
Pack your bag the night before. Having a packed bag is one of the best ways to be organised and stay out of trouble. In Junior School there was not much to pack as we left most of our learning resources at school, however in the Senior School we take almost everything home. I do sometimes forget to pack my bag the night before as I may be busy or tired, but I find that on the days that I don’t pack my bag the night before, I always forget something I need for the day. Every night you should spend 5-10 minutes looking at your diary, seeing what you need and be ready for the day ahead. •
Get involved in many cocurricular activities. Entering high school can be such a tremendous change, sometimes you feel like everyone gets it better than you. It might feel like you are the only one who is struggling to make new friends, keep up with homework, cocurricular activities, and familiarise yourself with Queenwood. You might not realise it, but everyone is going through the same struggles, so you are not alone. Everyone in older years also went through it, and now loves it. Some things that I wish that I knew, is that there is help everywhere if you look. There are so many people to support you if times get tough. I would recommend getting involved in as many cocurricular activities as possible, because they are fun and you can make new friends. •
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. When I was entering Year 7, I thought that everyone would already have close, established friendship groups and I would have absolutely no friends and would be lonely. But guess what? I’m still here and I’m making new friends and learning more about my year group each day. Something you should know is that everyone feels the same way as you. Everyone feels just as insecure and terrified as you, no matter how many friends they seem to have. And I know it seems so scary to speak to someone now and ask them if you can sit with them, but I genuinely mean it when I say, ‘just ask!’ No one is judging you and it will benefit you to just speak to them. Everyone feels the same way, and everyone is seeking that same social security as you. You are not alone! •
Always go for it. Achieving ‘perfect’ marks in Year 7 may seem like a very big deal at the moment, but in the end a few Bs and Cs don’t hurt! Enjoy your first year of Senior School. Don’t try and involve yourself in unnecessary drama and just make great memories. The thing that I am so grateful for in Year 7 is trying out many activities. I would wake up at 6am every day to get to school by 7am because I had cocurricular every morning, would come home at 8:30pm every day and did my homework which led me sleeping unbelievably late every night. I was tired and felt like quitting but now, I am so grateful to my Year 7 self for these hardworking times because I’ve experienced so many things and made more friends in the older years not just my own grade. Always go for it. •
Your tutors are there for you. In Year 7 I wish I knew that in class it is extremely helpful to stay organised and take explicit notes, as it will help in the long run with studying (without stress!) for upcoming assessments, as your notes are already done. It is also helpful to start studying days before since the information will stick better. If you don’t know how to study, ask your tutor as they are there for you. Also, don’t be scared to branch out and find new friends. Year 7 is the best time to do this as most are new to the school and even if you are shy, pretty much everyone wants someone new to talk to. Even just saying ‘hi’ will brighten someone’s day. •
CLAUDIA GASSMANN YEAR 8
OLIVIA CHOI YEAR 8
MILLA DENOVAN YEAR 8
AVA HILL YEAR 8
Girls participate in the 2023 Junior School Cross Country Carnival.
We warmly welcomed back our teaching and support staff with an induction program including a Sunrise Ceremony and a Welcome to Learning Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Dean Kelly.
We have a proud connection with Mahboba’s Promise, students have enjoyed spending time with recently arrived Afghan Refugees playing games, learning to swim and sharing a meal.
Year 3-6 girls enjoyed a brand new playground including monkey bars, a flying fox and two slides. There were plenty of smiles and endless options of fun at recess & lunch!
Year 7 students spent their first few days at Senior School with an induction program where they received their lockers, timetables, and tutor groups. They also spent time at Balmoral participating in cocurricular activities with Land’s Edge Foundation.
The Class of 2035 started their first day of Kindergarten meeting our Principal Ms Stone, showing off their new uniform and bags and meeting their class teacher and fellow classmates. More on page 44.
Starting the year with a splash, the Junior School Swimming Carnival saw lots of smiles and bright house colours at the Lawrance Pool.
Year 12 received their leaving jersey’s – a souvenir for their final year.
The Music Department launched its Ensemble Program at the beginning of Term 2 with a day of introductory rehearsals at the Senior School. It was a spectacular day of music with sounds from Wind Ensembles to String Ensembles and Choirs.
Year 8 students were announced as the winner of the Melanoma Institute’s SunSafe Student Ambassador competition. As winners, they were presented, by the Melanoma Institute’s CEO, Matthew Browne, with a brand new CoolCabana and a $1,000 cash prize to use towards sun safe activities in our school.
The rain didn’t stop our Junior School runners at their Cross Country Carnival for 2023. Big smiles and bright house colours covered Rawson Oval for a successful event. Well done to all the girls involved!
Our QUTE team members and Mr Draper had a busy time at the Fully Charged Show LIVE, Australia’s biggest electric vehicle exhibition. More on page 30.
Unity Grammar, Austral, NSW
Unity Grammar hosted our Year 10 students within their school to participate in workshop activities that focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development goals.
Congratulations to all our girls who took to the water at Head of the River. Queenwood finished 2nd place overall and was also the top medalling school for 2023 with five Gold, eight Silver and one Bronze.
Term 2 saw the wrap up of the Balmoral Lecture series for 2023. We had the pleasure of hosting Professor Jonathan Stone FAA Fellow, Australian Academy of Science, Rachael Falk, the CEO of Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre and Tim Dixon, founder of More in Common.
In recognition of International Women’s Day (IWD) the Senior School held a special assembly featuring an alumnae panel including Lucinda Brodgen (Q1986), Director of Australian Unity, Miriam Rihani (Q1993), Lawyer, Senior Director, APAC Lead Legal Business Advisory and Camilla Ferguson (Q2010), Engineer, Multiplex, alongside Year 12 student Nikki H.
Well done to all our girls that competed at the Tildesley Tennis Tournament. A great effort from the girls and coaches – Queenwood placed 11th overall.
Congratulations to Maddie W (Year 10), who was a finalist for the 2023 RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Art Competition. Maddie created a sensitive portrait of her greatgrandfather.
Year 12 Prefects hosted an afternoon tea in Term 1 with groups of leaders from different schools with an Amazing Race game.
Commissioned by the school, an oil painting by Sydneybased artist Julian Meagher, was installed in Mrs Moore’s office which was created during a professional studio workshop with the Visual Arts department.
Students and parents took to Clontarf Beach for a beach clean-up hosted by the QPA. The volunteers collected many micro and small plastics, such as straw holders from juice boxes and balloon remains. Stay tuned for more of these events throughout the year.
Year 4 spent an afternoon of sport at Rawson Oval learning how to fly kites.
Wrapped up with singing, dancing and musical items, Term 1 concluded with the much loved annual House Music Festival. Congratulations to Wood House who were crowned the 2023 winner!
A group of Year 11 students spent four days with the Dunghutti and Gumbaynggirr people as they connected with Country, spent time with the Macleay Vocational College (MVC) community and learnt about the local history.
The Junior & Senior School commemorated ANZAC Day with special service assemblies. The students were honoured to hear from Commander Tenille Chapman, Senior Medical Officer for diving medicine in the Defence Force and Head of Profession for Navy Medical Officers.
Our Middle School Production took to the stage to perform their first production of 2023 - CLUE, which was an absolute hit! With all the beloved board game characters brought to life, our audiences were roaring with laughter from start to finish.
The first teaching & learning session of our SmartStudy program in partnership with the Evidence Institute at the AIS & UNSW began in Term 1 for our Year 9 & 10 students.
Launching in Term 1, our Just Read Parent Book Club had some lively discussions in the Rennie Library over some popular literature.
This years Music Showcase Concert featured a range of musical ensembles and talented music students from both Junior and Senior schools who are involved in our chorus, band, orchestral and classroom programs.
Year 11 students participated in a joint student venture with Roseville College and Shore to encourage and discuss conversations about the power of healthy relationships.
Students and staff from Macleay Vocation College visited the Senior campus and participated in a Visual Arts lesson, built solar cars and paddle boarded at Balmoral Beach.
Year 6 visited the Senior School to experience a day in the life of high school. They had an opportunity to experience lessons in Science, Drama, Music, Wellbeing and Art. More on page 32.
Students took part in the Salvation Army’s 2023 Red Shield Appeal; as ambassadors they collected donations at Bridgepoint Shopping Centre.
School
Local Mosman resident Betty Gemmell celebrated her 106th birthday at Balmoral. Miss Gemmell’s birthday milestone makes the centenarian NSW’s oldest woman. Year 12 Head Prefect Charlotte H and Vice Head Prefect Helena K surprised Miss Gemmell with a bouquet of flowers and a birthday card from Queenwood.
A successful joint Athletics Carnival event took place at Sydney Olympic Park with Queenwood and Mosman Prep students from Year 2-6 competing in a program of events.
School
Junior School
Junior School celebrated the 23rd National Simultaneous Storytime during Just Read. Mr Da Fonte, the Junior School Librarian, read The Speedy Sloth by Rebecca Young to Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 girls.
Year 6 students participated in an Introduction to Waterpolo at the Lawrance Pool. The program lasts six weeks and teaches girls the rules of the sport and key skills required.
Queenwood girls took to the Awaba St hill with smiles and school spirit to conquer the Balmoral Burn fun run.
Year 7 & 8 students participated in an Indonesian Music Workshop led by alumna Alfira O’Sullivan (Q2000) from Suara Indonesia Dance. The workshop taught the famous Acehanese rhythmic floor and ‘big pants’ dancing in the Astra Theatre.
The Senior students took to the track for their annual Athletics Carnival with girls showing strong house spirit, participating in many events and cheering on their friends!
School camp aims to promote friendships and equip the students with knowledge, skills and behaviours to flourish in and contribute to a world of complexity and change. Years 3 – 6 spent time away from school on camp with Lands Edge Foundation.
As part of the Year 9 Visual Arts elective unit on Transformation, students travelled by water to Cockatoo Island to undertake visual research.
Year 12 Geography students ventured to the Hunter Valley in Term 2 to learn about viticulture at Mount Pleasant Winery in Pokolbin.
FROM TOP: Year 6, Year 5 and Year 3 students enjoying school camp.
As part of their exploration of the origins and development of government in History lessons, Year 6 saw democracy in action during their annual trip to Canberra.
Ms Elizabeth Stone, our Principal for the past nine years, embodies the values of truth, courage, and service. Leading a school is no easy task, but she has consistently shown dedication, care, and remarkable leadership. From achieving impressive academic results to fostering student wellbeing, Elizabeth’s initiatives have enriched the Queenwood community. Her commitment to social justice, sustainability, and technology integration has propelled the school forward. Elizabeth’s resilience, high expectations, and unwavering dedication make her an exceptional educator and leader. Some of our students share farewell messages and memories of Ms Stone.
Her support and respect for the students is truly unconditional. When we slip up, and make mistakes, she is still willing to listen and learn from us. Once, when I was serving as a school leader in my final year, Ms Stone organised an ad hoc meeting with the prefect body. We were all dreading this meeting – we knew that we had been slacking off as prefects due to the mounting pressures of Year 12, and we were terrified, as we anticipated a strict scolding. However, this wasn’t what happened at all – after calmly explaining that we weren’t meeting expectations, Ms Stone actually apologised to us and asked us what she could have done better to support us. It was a moment that made me realise what makes her so remarkable as an educator. Ms Stone sees us not just as students, but as young people who are her equals; young people who are capable of handling adult responsibilities, and who can rise to meet any challenge. This attitude is truly empowering, and it brings out the best in all of us, inspiring us to demand more of ourselves, and to dream bigger. Thank you so much Ms Stone.
Goodbye and good luck. We wish you all the best. >>
YEAR 7
It’sthe 3rd of February 2016 and a five-year-old Talia Slee is roaming the K-2 playground for the very first time; overwhelmed by the number of red-shoed children running around and contributing to the raucous sounds of school. I remember a tall and intimidating woman making her way in my direction. She spoke with a few others, before turning her attention to me. I vividly remember the next part – she crouched down until we were eye-to-eye, and introduced herself as Ms Stone. She no longer seemed quite as frightening, though I still clutched my dress in my fists. She welcomed me to Queenwood, asking me about myself. I knew immediately that she really cared.
2,561 days later, the 7th December 2023, I walked across the Astra Theatre stage for the last time as a Queenwood Junior School student, to shake the hand of my Principal, as I received my awards. Through the prior seven years, Ms Stone has had such a huge impact on my educational journey. From visiting us in the Junior School’s Galaxy Theatre to give talks during assembly, to lectures on Eddie Mabo she always spoke with the greatest wisdom and clarity. I am very sad that Ms Stone is leaving Queenwood, but I wish her all the best in England and hope that Queenwood will forever stay in her heart! I know I will never forget her.
“I vividly remember the next part - she crouched down until we were eye-to-eye, and introduced herself as Ms Stone.”
HARRIET
YEAR 8
Ms Stone has left an impact on everyone in this school. From the students to the teachers, I believe she will leave a mark on everyone here for years to come. She has been the nicest principal we could ask for. One of my favourite memories of Ms Stone is when I was walking down to Lawrance and she greeted me and had a conversation with me, even though she was probably walking to a staff meeting. She has a sense of humour and takes the time to inform our opinions on current topics through the weekly assemblies.
My favourite assembly must be the one she did on distorted thinking. What she taught us that day will stay with me forever – whenever I am going through a rough time, I will remember what she said that day.
To Ms Stone – thank you for helping us each in our own way and becoming a part of our school’s rich history. Thank you for being a creative, fun principal. Per Aspera ad Astra, and I hope you continue to strive for the stars wherever you go next.
9
Agreatpiece of advice from Ms Stone which I will always remember was her strong belief of always including others and understanding their perspective. Also, about accepting the fact that feeling excluded at points of time is a part of life, and that everyone feels excluded at some point.
In terms of Ms Stone’s assemblies, I could not choose a favourite one as they were all so insightful, such as the assembly on the application of maths to the world, the assembly of explaining the Queenwood school house names, as well as the fact that many of her assemblies were based off issues and political events in the real world.
Ms Stone has positively impacted Queenwood students in many ways, and all the advice she has offered to us will be remembered throughout our following careers, friendships, and lives.
ANNIKA MULCAHY YEAR
WhenI was in Year 4, I was lucky enough to be asked to play a duet on piano with Ms Stone. It was at the 2017 Senior School music showcase, and I was extremely nervous as I was the only girl with a red blazer in a sea of senior students. In the end, Ms Stone’s warm smile reassured me, and our duet became one of my fondest memories from the Junior School. Yet, once I reached Year 7, her friendliness did not cease. Whenever we walked past each other, her face would light up, and she would give me the occasional wink. To this day, it fills me with so much joy knowing that we had shared such a special moment. I find it so inspiring that Ms Stone is going to make history, becoming the first female principal at a 640-year-old school, and could not be more grateful for her years of dedication and commitment to Queenwood. While she may be gone, her legacy never will, and the impact she has left on Queenwood will still be felt decades from now.
“I find it so inspiring that Ms Stone is going to make history, becoming the first female principal at a 640-year-old school, and could not be more grateful for her years of dedication and commitment to Queenwood.”
>>
YEAR 11
Afond memory I have with Ms Stone was my school interview with her. I was looking to join Queenwood for the beginning of Year 8, and a few months before starting I had the interview with Ms Stone. At that age, she was the first adult who treated me as an equal and spoke to me with the respect and appropriate maturity she would to a fellow adult, instead of treating me like a child (which many adults did as I was obviously quite young). But I remember feeling so refreshed after my conversation with her, and being so struck that an adult had treated me with such respect and didn’t speak to me like I was a baby, for lack of better words. I consider it a very defining moment in my life, and it signified my transition into a new world of responsibility, maturity, and independence. All this came with the start of high school, and that milestone really began with my interview with Ms Stone.
A piece of advice that was also featured in an assembly that I resonate very deeply with is to keep perspective checks while I’m going through tough times. The assembly was earlier this year, when Ms Stone showed the different responses people have to challenges they face (e.g., catastrophising, placing blame elsewhere, etc). I really enjoyed this assembly as it was particularly engaging, eye-opening, and I could apply it directly to my own life. My main take away from it was that we should reframe our mindsets to a more positive one and keep those exaggerated, selfdetrimental mentalities in check through self-reflection. As I navigate through challenges in my life, it’s something that I have and will continue to practice. •
Belinda Moore, Acting Principal at Queenwood is eagerly looking forward to supporting existing projects and initiatives whilst working with our committed teachers and girls. Belinda shares how her previous roles have highlighted the importance of communication, informed decisionmaking, and patience. Outside of education, Belinda shares her philosophy of courage, and importance of staying active.
What are you looking most forward to about the Acting Principal role at Queenwood?
I am very excited to be following on from Ms Stone for Semester 2 and supporting the projects and initiatives she has established like our new Study Skills Program, working with the School Council on the Master Plan, planning for the School’s Centenary celebrations and meeting with everyone involved in the new Queenwood Connections group. I am grateful that under Ms Stone’s leadership we have developed an inspirational and experienced Executive team that I will continue to work with and of course I will maintain my involvement in the daily life of both Junior and Senior School. I also look forward to welcoming Mrs Marise McConaghy, our new Principal, in 2024.
Can you tell us a little bit about your role at IGSA, how has this helped you in your other roles?
I was at the Independent Girls’ Schools Association (IGSA) for 15 years. I started as Assistant Director of Sport, then moved to the Director role and finished my time there as Executive Officer. The early 2000s were an exciting time for sport as schools were starting to prioritise sport and cocurricular involvement. They were looking for ways to improve competitions and the experiences for the girls. The Association was in a unique position as the largest girls’ school sporting organisation in Australia. It was answerable to more than 24 independent girls’ schools that were different sizes, locations and all with different priorities. I was privileged to work with very knowledgeable and dedicated sport staff and learn many leadership lessons from the Principals of IGSA schools.
What do you like about working at Queenwood?
I love working with staff that have such varied and interesting backgrounds. School is an exciting place when you share it with staff and students who are eager to learn and enthusiastically get involved in the life of the school. I have enjoyed attending sport and cocurricular events and meeting the parent community and especially our Indigenous connections like Aunty Julie and Aunty Jeanette. Our location is very special and even the most difficult day can be made better with a walk to look out at the water.
What are you passionate about outside of girls’ education?
My personal philosophy resonates with the School’s value of courage. Be brave enough to try new things, meet new people and learn whenever you can. Moving as much as I can is also something very important to me and I also enjoy a little friendly competition!
What are your favourite traditions of Queenwood?
It took me a while to get used to the Big Idea Assemblies but I have learnt so much and the topics are so varied that I know they will continue. The House Music Festival is also a wonderful display of leadership, team work and connection between the year groups and a love of music and performance.
What’s the best lesson you have learned as Deputy Principal?
Communicate often and consistently. Make informed decisions in a timely manner so people can get on with their job. Appreciate that there are many sides to every story and you need to be ready to listen to all the versions. Be patient enough to learn the history so that you can improve the future.
What did you study in the HSC?
3 unit English, 3 unit Maths, Economics, Latin, Biology and Modern History – 14 units. I think it was more common to study more units in the 80s?!
I had always wanted to be a Sport Physiotherapist but did not get the marks and my next area of interest was Economics, so after school I went straight to university to study Economics which I really disliked after a semester so changed to Women’s Liberal Studies including psychology, anthropology and linguistics as I had lost direction after realising Economics was not for me. I had continued to coach sport at my old school, Redlands, and one of the PDHPE teachers suggested teaching so I went to ACPE and studied PDHPE. I loved every minute of it and was Proxime Accessit of my class.
What are your favourite things to do outside of Queenwood?
I enjoy being as active as possible and travelling to new places with family and friends. Sharing stories and laughing a lot is also very important to me.
What is your favourite sport?
I would like to say that is a difficult question – but it is not! Netball. It is such a great example of a true team sport because of the positional restrictions. Everyone has a very defined role to play. There can be no super stars. •
“My personal philosophy resonates with the School’s value of courage. Be brave enough to try new things, meet new people and learn whenever you can.”
We asked our PE & Sport Department what they love about sport and what makes it unique at Queenwood.
The extensive range of sports and activities offered at Queenwood allows all students the opportunity to develop a life-long passion for being active and healthy.
No matter a student’s ability they have the opportunity to participate in an inclusive sports program that is not only enjoyable but fulfilling.
Our sports program is inclusive and allows each student to participate no matter their sport background or experience level.
Outstanding, positive, meaningful relationships which strive to bring out the best in every student. Students can try a variety of sports and activities that are supported by quality coaching, which focuses on developing positive, respectful, hard-working and humble young women. When done well we also experience more than our share of success.
Great facilities and amazing coaches, what more could a sports department ask for? This helps create great opportunities for our girls to try many sports where they are encouraged to give it their best.
Our sports program is unique in the sense that it has an abundance of opportunity through both recreational and competitive sports meeting the needs of all students. Queenwood provides an inclusive and fun environment, with a ‘no student left behind’ mentality, meaning that students can collaborate and build on their skills in a supportive environment.
Cocurricular sport is not compulsory, yet the vast majority of students still actively participate. Students are choosing to participate rather than being made to do so. The sporting culture helps students
to develop the building blocks of lifelong participation in physical activity and sport.
Not pictured:
Amelia Jackson
Senior School PDHPE Teacher
The sports program is committed to promoting physical activity and sports participation among our students; creating a positive and supportive team culture that fosters teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills.
Krystle Maguire
Senior School PDHPE Teacher
Great facilities, excellent supportive staff and a place for everyone.
Indiana Faithfull Sport Coordinator
We will make a spot for anyone that wishes to participate. We want everyone involved.
Nicholas Johnston
Junior School Sport & Cocurricular Administration Assistant
Queenwood values the quality of relationships built between students and staff. Combined with variety and opportunity, there is something for everyone, from beginner to elite. •
Ben Chifley was the 16th Prime Minister of Australia, and put three referendums to voters on the same day as the election.
The ABC makes the first national broadcast of a Federal Parliament debate.
Orange and Lismore are proclaimed as cities. In Japan, women vote for the first time.
Tokyo Telecommunication (now Sony) is founded.
The bikini is modeled in Paris.
UNICEF is founded.
The second annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race takes place.
This section of the QNews celebrates the contribution alumnae make to the community, both within the School and beyond. Connected by your shared values and formed by your shared experiences, your compassionate and accomplished peers follow a remarkable variety of paths.
In the following pages you will read stories about your friends and see images of them reconnecting. We would love to hear your news; please contact us via email oldgirls@queenwood.nsw.edu.au or by telephone +61 2 8968 7721.
As we approach our centenary in 2025, if you have photos, keepsakes or stories from your time at Queenwood or about the school, we would love to hear from you – please contact archives@queenwood.nsw.edu.au.
At the beginning, Miss Lawrance had planned for Queenwood to be a school for both boarders and day girls. In February 1926 seven boarders joined the School from Queensland. Due to Miss Lawrance’s ill-health, boarders were discontinued from 1930 with the hope to begin anew in 1933. However, it wasn’t until after the war in 1942 that Queenwood returned to having boarders from one student to 43 up until 1950, with many students coming from rural NSW. One of these students was Jean Florance (née Cruickshank)’, a boarder from 1946 to 1948. Jean’s daughters Katie Florance and Julie Florance shared with us their mother’s fond memories of her time boarding at Queenwood.
Attending Queenwood has had a formative influence on Jean’s life, and she has spoken fondly of the enduring influence that Miss Rennie and Miss Medway have had on her life. Her experience at Queenwood developed her love of learning, strength of character and life skills such as organisational prowess, diligence, public speaking skills and community spirit. Jean loved being a student at Queenwood— even though she was a long way from her home in Moree in northern NSW, she felt nurtured as a boarder and embraced communal student living. The friendships that developed from that time were very special to Jean, and she enjoyed strong ties with her Queenwood friends for over 60 years. Jean’s life-long love of photography also blossomed during her student days, as shown in the photographs here.
While at school, Jean had ardent dreams of being an English teacher at Queenwood, as well as wanting to have a family—but when her beloved older sister, Marion, drowned in a dam on her family’s property, her parents pulled her out of school at the age of 15. Due to her mother’s grief and subsequent illness, Jean stepped into the enormous and challenging role of managing the shearers and farm hands on the property, as well as the catering for staff and family.
Jean moved to Manly in her early twenties; her parents told her that she had three months to find a job, or come home. Being a very determined, focused and hardworking individual (traits that Queenwood developed), she did—as well as meeting her future husband. After attending secretarial college, Jean worked in a variety of roles including dental nursing, but being a loving wife, mother and grandmother has been the main focus of her life. Always caring for others, Jean has also been a passionate volunteer supporting people experiencing social exclusion; for example, she organised fundraising events for the House With No Steps (now, Aruma) for many years, involving catering extravaganzas organised with almost military precision!
Jean so enjoyed the camaraderie of Queenwood student life, valued the stimulation of her well-rounded education and delighted in the beautiful Balmoral setting, that she sent two daughters there to experience the same. (Jean’s younger sisters, Shirley and Elaine, also attended Queenwood.) Jean is currently living with dementia and recently celebrated her 90th birthday, surrounded by her devoted family.
Following is the original speech titled Miss Rennie, shared by Jean at the Warringah Evening VIEW (Voice Interests & Education of Women) Club (part of the Smith Family) on 2 July 1991. Jean was a member for 30 years.
(N
É E CRUICKSHANK)“After the wonderful get-together of Queenwood Old Girls, at the home of Mrs Cheryl Henderson-Smart on Thursday 20th June, I came away with the distinct feeling that Miss Rennie made a very definite and lasting impression on the lives of all the young schoolgirls who came into contact with her. As indeed, I have always been aware of the great contribution she made to my schooldays and time as a boarder with Queenwood during the years of 1946, 1947 and 1948–after which I went home to my father’s country property to stay, to assist my mother who had been in very ill-health since the accident in which my older sister was drowned.
Miss Rennie set a shining example in her outstanding endeavour to guide us all towards the pinnacle of high achievement and strength of character, and simply doing one’s best. One quavered before her steely gaze of resolve if one faltered along the way and in so doing incurred an order mark by one of the prefects. This brings to mind an endearing side to her which surfaced when on one occasion I had left my blazer in the common room, an unforgivable sin as a rule. Miss Rennie spied it and waylaid me in the hall, hissing a whispered warning to me!
We can never forget that Miss Rennie wrote the words to our
School hymn and they serve as an inspiration to this day, with its love of the surrounding beauty of nature, and its exhortation to rise to the heights of our abilities and its appeal to always serve others in need.
Miss Rennie was a wonderful teacher and she injected in us a love of learning. What might seem to be the most dull and boring assignment to begin with turned into a subject of tremendous interest and stimulation because of her deep and abiding love of and dedication to teaching. We would find ourselves absorbing details and hanging on her every word with fascination, in English, History and Zoology. Oh, to be able to sit at her feet and listen again!
To be a boarder at Queenwood, was to be a cared-for member of a 30-strong family, in those days. Every action of each boarder was noted and analysed and quite often diplomatic handling arose therefrom!! It was typical of the kindness of our Headmistress, that girls who were compatible, were always placed together in each sleeping dormitory – ‘Well, I know, you and so-and-so are friends so I thought I’d put you in together’ – was a remark we often heard. Similarly, a related student or friend was always sent by Miss Rennie with a boarder to act as moral support at a dental visit or sporting competition participation – a great comfort to the one concerned!
Quite a few boarders were always homesick on return from holidays and Miss Rennie was ever compassionate and understanding, gently sending them off to bed to recover from their journey ostensibly, and so a few homesick tears could be shed privately into their pillows.
Of course, we sometimes blotted our copy books, for
instance, the occasion of scheming and planning for a delectable midnight feast! Quietly, we made our purchases, and I can remember the stealthy, delicious moments of excitement as we stowed cakes and goodies under our beds in great secret! Then we experienced the thrill of the culmination of it all –the dispatching of cakes, consumed with glee, at midnight, as we all squeaked with delight and tried to keep our torches dim and discreet. Imagine our consternation when we heard footsteps outside the door, and we were confronted by Matron!! And oh, the great shame we all felt when we were hauled before Miss Rennie, her expression distraught and her hands wringing in distress that we had betrayed her trust.
To Miss Rennie, good manners and courtesy towards others were paramount. At the dinner-table, the boarders all had to take turns at being the one responsible for leading the conversation. Everyone seemed strangely tongue-tied when in this situation, and we all would wait for the first blurted-forth comment, while the speaker would be covered in a blush of confusion and nervousness! But once the ice was broken, the mantle of constraint seemed to lift, and the conversation would flow effortlessly, with only a hint of stiltedness now and again!
Queenwood boarders were certainly not deprived in the area of entertainment on a Saturday afternoon. Miss Rennie always made sure we went somewhere interesting – whether it be a most enjoyable picnic, rowing excursion, trip to the movies, theatre, Art Gallery or Museum.
Sunday was always a contented, peaceful sort of a day, beginning with Church Morning Service.
Off we’d go, neat and demure in our white dresses, hats, and gloves to sit sedately on the tram and in Church, under Miss Rennie’s watchful gaze, ever alert to quash any girlish giggles! Afterwards, we would trot back home in crocodile lines down the hill to school, to be met always by lunch of corned beef with salad and Miss Rennie’s specialty, her glorious condensed milk and vinegar mayonnaise!!
After lunch, Miss Rennie allowed boarders to go out with relatives or close friends of the family, or otherwise, we spent Sunday afternoon, writing home and reading the newspapers.
Miss Rennie provided delicious cakes for afternoon tea and we would regale ourselves happily.
In the evening, just before we retired to bed, Miss Rennie would lead prayers and we would sing a hymn or two. And somehow, we felt at peace with the world and ready for the coming busy week, with its lessons and sport and evenings of prep.
My two daughters, Katherine and Julianne, who passed through Queenwood, have, I think, carried on its traditions. Katherine graduated in Law and is now an editor with the Law Book Company. Julianne graduated in nursing and is currently travelling overseas.
Miss Rennie will always remain in my memory as one who preached loyalty to the rest of the team whom you never let down, and pride in just being a Queenwood girl.” •
“We can never forget that Miss Rennie wrote the words to our School hymn and they serve as an inspiration to this day, with its love of the surrounding beauty of nature, and its exhortation to rise to the heights of our abilities and its appeal to always serve others in need.”
With our centenary approaching in 2025, our preparations are well underway. Queenwood has gone from strength to strength over the last 98 years thanks to the contribution of all those who have loved and served our beautiful school over so many years. Our alumnae have always been fervent supporters and we also want to recognise the extraordinary service rendered by other friends of the School – from long-serving and beloved staff to former Board and Council members to dedicated parents whose affection for the School has continued for many years since their youngest daughter graduated.
This spirit of service reflects one of our founding values, and one of our Centenary initiatives will be to create a program of events and gatherings which creates a home for all these cherished members of the School community – formally known as Queenwood Connections.
Our Director of Community Relations, Donna Hughes, has shared with the wider community a program of events for the remainder of this year. This will naturally include our regular reunions for Old Girls, but for the first time we will be making sure that all those who come under the umbrella of Queenwood Connections will be warmly invited to a range of events –
including seminars and lectures, Book Clubs, music and drama performances and so on.
On Thursday 8 June, we hosted our launch event, there were traditional pink cupcakes and a toast to Queenwood. Ms Elizabeth Stone gave a brief update on the life of the School and upcoming developments and guests had the opportunity to tour the campus to revisit old haunts and see how things look today. We were delighted that former Principal Mrs Kem Bray also spoke at the event.
We would also welcome your suggestions, and any details you can provide, of friends of the School whom we should add to Queenwood Connections, such as former teachers or families who may wish to join us for some of these offerings. To do so, please email: community@queenwood.nsw.edu.au
This section of the QNews is for our Parents’ Association who work tirelessly to facilitate and strengthen the parents’ partnership with the School. Your energy and goodwill is vital in building a school in which your daughters can flourish.
In the following pages we recognise the contribution parents make in organising social events, welcoming new families into our community, providing practical services like second-hand uniform sales; raising funds for equipment and programs, offering assistance for school events, and providing us with a useful sounding board.
With a new school year comes a new QPA committee.
Adriana is a QPA General Member and helps with volunteering activities throughout the year. Adriana also helped organise memorable moments including the final events for Ms Stone.
Yeting joined the QPA in 2023 and assists the Chair. Yeting is responsible for the oversight and coordination of QPA activities.
Christina is the QPA Secretary for 2023 and schedules, provides notices and keeps minutes of QPA committee and general meetings. Christina is most looking forward to organising quality communitybuilding events alongside committee members.
Tamsin joined the QPA in 2023 to get to know Queenwood better and to improve things for girls and parents whose lives deviate, for whatever reason, from what would be considered ‘typical’. Her particular area of focus is neurodiversity; however she is also trying to make QPA Events more accessible.
8.
Ting joined the QPA Committee in 2022 and this year has taken on the Finance Coordinator role which includes reconciling and authorising Business Office to process the reimbursement and direct payment of QPA, year group events expenditures, and ensuring accurate records of the QPA. Ting is looking forward to seeing more parents attending QPA events and recognition of committee member’s contributions.
Rebecca supports the 20+ QPA Senior School year group parent representative, keeping families updated on QPA and School news, building connections across School community and helping to coordinate over 40 year group events in 2023 organised by the parent representatives.
Kerryn joined the QPA committee in 2020 and coordinates all events on TryBooking organised by the QPA and parent representatives.
9.
Priscilla is the Chair of the QPA and has held the position over several years. Priscilla hopes to encourage parents to attend the QPA’s general meeting held each term. These general meetings are where you will see inner workings of the Parent Association and the connection the committee has with the school.
This year is Antonio’s eighth year on the QPA. Antonio’s role within the QPA this year is Philanthropic activity and helping with events which help the School fund sustainable and important needs. Antonio is looking forward to helping plan more Father/Carer and Daughter social gatherings.
Jenni has a background working with Environmental NGOs and now heads up sustainability initiatives within local schools in the Lower North Shore. As Sustainability Coordinator, Jenni is excited to see more collective engagement towards normalising sustainable behaviours in 2023.
Alison’s role involves conveying communication from the school, including the Head of Junior School and teachers to year representatives who communicate with families directly.
In 2023, Alison looks forward to recruiting new year representatives for 2024 to assist in organise and conducting events. The Junior School holds over sixty QPA events each year.
Gaynor joined the school in 2022 and also joined the QPA to get involved with the school community. As Event Coordinator, Gaynor looks after events for the QPA throughout the year and is most excited about building and growing the QPA community through well attended and inclusive events. •
It was wonderful to welcome everyone back on Campus with canapés, bubbles and chatter at the Welcome Back Cocktail Party.
Mothers, grandmothers and significant women were celebrated at our annual QPA breakfast.
Parents and daughters have been out and about connecting together and with the community.
Once you have finished reading this issue of QNews test your school knowledge and answer the following trivia questions:
1. What year did Queenwood open?
a) 1926
b) 1925
c) 1930
d) 1927
2. What were the names of our founding Principals?
a) Miss Grace Lawrance and Miss Beatrice Rennie
b) Miss Grace Lawrance and Miss Violet Medway
c) Miss Violet Medway and Miss Beatrice Rennie
d) Miss Grace Lawrance and Mrs Alison Stalley
3. When did Queenwood have boarding students?
a) 1935
b) 1926
c) 1930
d) 1933
4. How many years has Ms Stone been a Principal at Queenwood?
a) 5 years
b) 8 years
c) 9 years
d) 7 years
5. What does QPA stand for?
a) Queenwood Parents Association
b) Queenwood Pastoral Alliance
c) Queenwood Pets Association
d) Queenwood Principals Alliance
6. What colour are the shoes our Kindergarten –Year 2 girls wear?
a) Black
b) Blue
c) Brown
d) Red
7. How many campuses make up the Senior School?
a) 5 – Art & Design, Lawrance (Science & Sport) Building, Rennie Building, Medway Building and Junior School
b) 4 – Art & Design, Lawrance (Science & Sport) Building, Rennie Building and Medway Building
c) 3 – Art & Design, Lawrance (Science & Sport) Building and Medway Building
d) 2 – Top School and Bottom School
8. What is the name of the electric vehicle project?
a) EVP – Electric Vehicle Project
b) QUTE
c) Queenwood’s Engineering Project
d) QVP
9. What is the name of our cow and sheep?
a) Nancy and Puddles
b) Egbert and Stalley
c) Nancy and Egbert
d) Beatrice and Violet
10. What company has the same inspiring motto Per Aspera ad Astra as our School?
a) Australian Space Agency
b) Sydney Observatory
c) NASA
d) British European Space Agency
Can you spot the Queenwood illustrations? There are 6 objects hidden in the photo.
We asked the staff at the Art and Design Campus what books they were enjoying this semester...
by Phillip Pullman
This is my second time reading this trilogy –I loved it twenty years ago and it is just as magical now. The plot of this trilogy is beautifully complex, imaginative, and thought provoking. Pullman weaves together religion, science, philosophy, and fantasy into a wonderful saga that is both epic and compelling, unique and heart breaking. This series is not just a young adult novel, it is very much a work of adult fiction, spectacularly crafted that transports you into another world.
by New Scientist & G. Lawton
It is a book written by scientists who have trawled through academic findings to write about common lifestyle choices and truths. e.g. Superfoods, eating bacon, diets. I’m enjoying it because it speaks very well of health implications as relative risk vs absolute risk.
by V.E. Schwab
The story follows a young French woman who strikes a deal with a god that makes her immortal, but she is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. I am really enjoying this book; the writing is beautifully atmospheric, drawing you into the world of the characters.
by Dr Yuval Noah Harari
This book focuses on Homo Sapiens and surveys the history of humankind, starting from the stone age all the way to the twenty-first century. I am currently glued to it, discovering why we are the way that we are and opening up my mind! I recommend it to those who like challenges and want to think outside of the box.
by Kassia St Clair
It’s like taking a journey through time and art. I’ve discovered some colours with names so beautiful... heliotrope, gamboge, that have captivated my artistic imagination.
Ksenija Doic is reading...
Jill Gallagher is reading...
Claire Harrison is reading...
Draekora
by Lynette NoniI enjoy reading fantasy. I do love everything that Lynette Noni writes. I enjoyed reading the captivating fantasy series
The Medoran, the third book Draekora is my favourite as it has terrific scenes with dragons.
by Simon Sinek
Because teaching (as is life) is an infinite game and should be run as such.
It’s the sequel to The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas but you don’t need to have read it to enjoy “All the Broken Places”. Make sure you read the book to the end.
It was testing, gripping, validating and affirming. A heart wrenching yet uplifting journey and you can’t help but feel like he is talking directly to you.
Nick Mavrogordato is reading...
This short story is perfect for Just Read as it instantly teleports you to a quaint little Irish town the moment your eyes hit the page. This book is the perfect page turner for those dabbling in escapism.
This is a fiction novel, the third in a trilogy called Before the Coffee Gets Cold. I absolutely loved these books and would recommend to everyone! Think time travel, Japanese culture, love and relationships all in short stories that intertwine together.
The novel comprises two stories, one historical about a Renaissance artist from the 1460s and the other about a child of the 1960s The story is told from these two perspectives and can be read in any order. It is about art’s versatility and the power of imagination.
Lauren Costello is reading... Saffron Craig is reading... Sandy Little is reading...THURSDAY 26 OCTOBER 2023 –SATURDAY 28 OCTOBER 2023
BOOK NOW: trybooking.com/1079322
Queenwood is such a wonderful, busy and inspiring place; we want you to be part of it all.
Junior School
Wednesday 9 August
Thursday 26 October
Senior School
Thursday 27 July
Thursday 31 August
Thursday 19 October
Thursday 23 November
BOOK NOW: queenwood.nsw.edu. au/book-a-tour
40 minute classes commencing at 8:40am. Monday or Thursday for children age 3 & over.
Term 3: 20 July – 18 September
Term 4: 9 October – 20 November
BOOK NOW: trybooking.com/255570
Free of charge for girls future enrolled in Kindergarten.
Parent Seminars
The Next Chapter For Year 6 Parents
Tuesday 25 July
The Changing Domain –Master the Teenager For Year 8 Parents
Tuesday 8 August
Embrace the Here and Now For Year 10 Parents
Thursday 17 August
Centre of Excellence –getting it right from the beginning For Kindergarten-Year 2 parents
Tuesday 22 August
LEARN MORE: issuu.com/queenwoodschool/ docs/q_parent_seminar_series_2023_ brochure_v3b?fr=xKAE9_zU1NQ
Q DRAMA PRESENTS A MIDDLE SCHOOL PRODUCTION
Wednesday 15 November –
Saturday 18 November
BOOK NOW: trybooking.com/1079441
From p.88
QUIZ ANSWERS :
1. b) 1925
2. a) Miss Grace Lawrance and Miss Beatrice Rennie
3. b) 1926
4. c) 9 years
5. a) Queenwood Parents Association
6. d) Red
7. b) 4 – Art & Design, Lawrance (Science & Sport) Building, Rennie Building and Medway Building
8. b) QUTE
9. c) Nancy and Egbert
10. c) NASA
EYE SPY
1. Nancy the cow – on rooftop
2. Red shoes – base of stairs
3. Teddy – under tree
4. Books – in tree
5. Neck tie – on student
6. Panama hat – on the side of the building
This issue of QNews is printed on responsibly sourced, chlorine free, carbon neutral, FSC certified paper.
WELL MANAGED FOREST
CARBON NEUTRAL
CHLORINE FREE
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