Capricornus Quarterly, Volume 35, No.2, July 2019 by The Rockhampton Grammar School

uly 2019 35; No. 2 J e m u l o V u.au s.qld.ed www.rg

FOR THE LOVE OF TEACHING RGS staff provide an insight into their passion for education and teaching RGS students.

MATILDA CAPTURES RGS HISTORY The Rockhampton Grammar School | Grow in Character and Scholarship

SEE ALL EVENTS, FULL DETAILS AND UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION AT WWW.RGS.QLD.EDU.AU/CALENDAR

What’s coming up at RGS – Highlights RGS Parent Association Meeting Friday 26 July Are you a member yet? Learn more at www.rgs.qld.edu.au/ parent-association

RDSS Athletics Carnival 29-30 August RGS students will compete for Capricornia team selection

RGS Netball Presentation Dinner Thursday 19 September RGS netball teams and supporters celebrate the end of the 2019 season in the Spaceframe

Distinguished Past Students’ Dinner Saturday 27 July Join us as we recognise the outstanding achievements and contributions of the School’s Past Students.

QCS Exam (Year 12) 3-4 September Good luck to Year 12 OP students sitting their CST Exam. Our last year on the OP system

RGS Rugby Presentation Dinner Wednesday, 18 September Who will win the rugby union and rugby league awards for the 2019 season?

Whole School Photo Monday 29 July RGS Whole School Photo. Prep through to Year 12 students will sit for this special photo opportunity

DMTA Production Beauty and the Beast 7 September Tickets at seeitlive.com.au

Year 9 What About Me Graduation Friday, 20 September The culmination of the Year 9 Term 3 programme

Matilda – The Musical 9, 10, and 11 August The Pilbeam Theatre Tickets at seeitlive.com.au

RGS at the Ekka 7 September RGS Show Cattle team members have the opportunity to compete and learn at the Brisbane Ekka

Last Day of Term 3 Friday 20 September

RGS Parent Association Kids and Dads’ Fun Day Sunday 18 August Get out there and play, have lunch and then play some more with RGS families across the School. Learn more at rgs.qld.edu.au/parentassociation

Year 6 Day of Notables Wednesday 18 September Year 6 students share the stories of notable characters, from both the history books and more recent times

First Day of Term 4 Wednesday 9 October All Schools Touch 9 - 13 October Good luck to RGS touch teams when they join 460 teams at the 2019 championships in Brisbane

Qld Schools Rowing Championships 21-23 September RGS rowers are vying for medals at Lake Wyaralong

Thank you RGS Sport sponsors for sharing with us our mission of developing whole people through a balance of academic, sporting, co-curricular and social activities.

From Australian Rules to Water Polo, RGS students compete in approximately 20 sporting activities including Basketball, Golf, Netball, Tennis and more. We encourage students across all year levels to embrace the benefits of joining in. If you would like to join in as a sponsor of RGS Sports or any co-curricular activity such as Music, Show Cattle or Theatre, please contact Todd Wells, Director of Co-curricular on 0488 778 300.

Dr Phillip Moulds

John Casey

Headmaster

elcome to the second edition of for 2019. I particularly enjoyed reading the article that featured profiles on some of our RGS staff. As some of you may have heard me say, RGS is not about the bricks and mortar or facilities (although, these are great). It is about the people of the School. It is always a privilege to hear about our staff – their different backgrounds, what makes them tick, what ignites their passion inside and outside the classroom, and why they love what they do. Our teachers and support staff each bring their own experiences, backgrounds, talents and skills to the School, creating a rich human tapestry of over 350 staff. They give of themselves to ensure that each student who attends the School has the opportunity to thrive and shine. It is often said that employees are the most important asset of any business, and this couldn’t be more true in an educational institution. Relationships between teachers, support staff, leadership staff, parents, students and past students are at the core of what we do, and what we do well, at RGS.

At the end of Semester 1 each year, we gather together to recognise staff who have been with us for 10, 20, 30 or even 40 years! It is a testament to the School and these staff members that I have the pleasure of being able to read out so many names, year after year.

“RGS is not about the bricks and mortar. It is about the people.” While the School has been on a transformative journey, these staff members have held on for the ride. They have seen the changing landscape of the campus, as new buildings, centres and spaces have emerged. They have witnessed the rise of digital technology in the classroom and the workplace. They have seen Headmasters come and go and the curriculum develop and broaden. But they stay, because the things that really matter remain unchanged. The values upon which the School was established, and the Grammar spirit, have never wavered. The heart of the School still beats the same. It is my hope that these staff have been able to grow in character and scholarship throughout their time at RGS, while encouraging the students under their care to do the same. I hope they have created lasting memories and friendships along the way and will look back fondly at their time at RGS.

inside CQ Volume 35 No. 2 July 2019

CHARACTER, SCHOLARSHIP AND COMMUNITY

2 News Briefs

Education on the edge; High achievers in the Arts; National recognition for education excellence SCHOLARSHIP

4 STEAMing Ahead Collective minds produce amazing results in STEAM workshops RGS PAST STUDENTS

8 Follow your Passion Tess Waller continues to find her connection with music; Matt Richardson takes his studies into real life CHARACTER, SCHOLARSHIP AND COMMUNITY

12 Adventure Drives Spirit Shave for a Cure is close to the heart Year 10s venture into the unknown

CHARACTER, SCHOLARSHIP AND COMMUNITY

16 Early Learning Years

Bridging the gap between Early Learning and starting school

CHARACTER, SCHOLARSHIP AND COMMUNITY

18 Meet our Teachers

I sincerely thank all RGS staff for their service and loyalty to the School.

RGS teachers provide an insight into why they love teaching young minds

20 RGS Sports Briefs and Cultural Highlights

22 RGS Photo Album

LAST WORD

24 Set the Standard A former All Blacks rugby union player talks about positive culture

COVER: RGS teacher, Mr Noel Philips, speaks with CQ about his journey to becoming an Industrial Design & Technology teacher and why he loves what he does. Read more on page 18

Follow us on Instagram The Rockhampton Grammar School takes seriously the challenge of preparing students for today’s world. We treat each student as a whole person through a balance of academic, sporting, co-curricular and social activities. Our School motto is Macte Virtute et Litteris or Grow in Character and Scholarship. Capricornus Quarterly is published by: The Rockhampton Grammar School Archer Street Rockhampton QLD 4700, Australia www.rgs.qld.edu.au (+61) 7 4936 0600 ISSN 1839-4663

Dr Phillip Moulds, Headmaster 07 4936 0615 Headmaster@rgs.qld.edu.au Enrolment enquiries 1300 GRAMMAR The Registrar, Mrs Marissa Holloway 1300 GRAMMAR or 07 4936 0700 Registrar@rgs.qld.edu.au

Editorial & Advertising Ms Sue Moloney, Acting Director Development and Communications 07 4936 0668 smoloney@rgs.qld.edu.au Mrs Rachael McDonald 07 4936 0776 rmcdonald@rgs.qld.edu.au Mrs Ashleigh Harvey 07 4936 0667 aharvey@rgs.qld.edu.au

rgs.qld.edu.au

Capricornus Quarterly is printed on quality silk art which is 100% recycled (FSC recycled certified SGS-COC-2260; certified carbon neutral and chlorine free) by City Printing Works, Rockhampton.

The Rockhampton Grammar School | Grow in Character and Scholarship

CHARACTER and SCHOLARSHIP

Students sitting on the edge of decision making Central Queensland’s Blackdown Tablelands are an imposing mass of land as you drive west into the region. A group of RGS Year 11 students gained a different perspective on the Tablelands this term on their Year 11 Outdoor Education trip.

Lewis French was one of the students: “Before the trip began, all of us were excited by the prospect of abseiling off a real cliff, it was a first for everyone and the only practice we had was down a small slope at school with no real danger involved.

“Once we reached the location and saw the cliff we would be abseiling off everyone was slightly nervous as the cliff seemed a lot higher in person.

“As we lowered ourselves down the cliff-face we had to trust our own skills, as well as the equipment to safely reach the bottom.

“However, with everyone possessing the correct knowledge of procedures involved with abseiling we quickly overcame the initial shock of leaning off the edge of a cliff.

“Once at the bottom, a feeling of accomplishment was felt throughout the group as we were all able to use our knowledge and skillsets to successfully complete an abseil.”

SCHOLARSHIP

Performances to remember

222

Top marks

An ear for a good tune

Madison Schneider (Year 12) had to battle poor health and limited preparation time, only three months, but that did not stop her achieving the State’s top result in the Grade 7 AMEB (Australian Music Examinations Board) Drama and Performance Exam for 2018. Receiving the award at the 73rd Barbara Sisley Awards at Brisbane’s Parliament House, Madison performed, “Are We There Yet?”. Congratulations also to Madison’s Speech and Drama teacher, Peta Horneman-Wren. The exams include memorised theory and many recitals, along with having to study the background on all material that could potentially be performed.

It’s not every day you get to hear your own music performed. RGS Year 12 student Lachlan Moulds lived that opportunity thanks to Topology, a Brisbane-based musical creativity company dealing with new original work. Topology travelled throughout the State, to create “Queensland at Home”, a time capsule of vintage film accompanied by live original scores. Topology performed at the Heritage Village in Rockhampton on 11 May – previewing two short films about the Rockhampton area which also featured original music composed by Lachlan.

NEWS

COMMUNITY

RGS takes pride in national recognition for excellence The Rockhampton Grammar School has been announced as a Boarding School of the Year Finalist and Regional School of the Year Finalist by The Australian Education Awards.

RGS, Queensland’s largest boarding school, is ranked among the Top Country Schools in Australia by The Weekend Australian. It was presented with a National Excellence in Teaching Award earlier this year.

“We are extremely proud of our girls and boys, staff and parents. This recognises the partnership we share and the opportunities and benefits which come about as a result of us working together,” said RGS Headmaster Dr Phillip Moulds.

“The national recognition for excellence from different organisations demonstrates the depth and quality of care for our students as well as the choices students have at RGS to undertake advanced academics, rich vocational education options, sporting and arts programmes,” said Dr Moulds.

The Australian Education Awards recognise ‘star performers’, according to the organisers at The Educator, who judge schools from across Australia in 24 categories.

Last year, approximately 250 RGS students earned VET qualifications, more than any local school.

ROCKHAMPTON GLADSTONE YEPPOON

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www.luptonstewart.com.au

Boarding Director, Mr Stewart Norford, who has looked after RGS residents for more than 20 years, says it is a privilege to have the trust of boarding families. “It is reassuring when independent authorities judge us to be doing as good of a job as we aspire to be doing.” More than 325 girls and boys live at RGS and call it their second home. “I know when I leave Grammar, I will have life-long friends,” says Jack Koerner, a Year 10 Boarder from Mt Larcom. “Parents — but mums especially — want to feel close to their children. In Girls Boarding we understand the

CREATING CONFIDENT SMILES

FOR PATIENTS OF ALL AGES

importance of that bond. It’s vital when girls come to us in Years 6 or 7 or 8,” explains Ms Raquel Mangin, Head of Girls Boarding. “One of our roles is to strengthen and build that relationship,” Ms Mangin says. Grammar’s success, however, is not about awards according to RGS Head of Boys Boarding, Mr Dan Bradford. “It’s about the individual student, their family, the connections we make along the way, sharing values, and understanding what’s important to each other.”

Combine skills, mix in enthusiam, then add The road to building STEAM at The Rockhampton Grammar School is continually in a state of growth. This term, after-school STEAM workshops have been held, in addition to a Conoco Phillips Science experience offered to Year 9 students, and weekly preparation for the Regional Robotics Competition held for Primary and Secondary students later in the year. The STEAM workshops are a new initiative and allow students the opportunity to explore the many and varied opportunities provided by STEAM. Three workshops were offered, which for Secondary School students were Science in Art and The Robotic Hand. For Primary School students a LEGO Solar Powered Car workshop was offered. Interest in this workshop was extremely high and meant that two time slots were necessary in order to give all students an opportunity to attend, writes Alana Mikkelsen and Nikki Kelly.

A DDI NG T H E A I N ST E ( A ) M

The School’s Visual and Creative Art teachers, Amanda Lowjen (pictured above with Year 7 student Amelia Doyle and Year 12’s Madelyn Sparrow) and Sarah Kelly, in conjunction with Science teachers Andrea Smith and Nikki Kelly, took the opportunity to put the A in STEAM. Students ventured down to the

chemistry laboratories to freezeframe the beauty and fascination of chemical reactions and particles in motion. The group of budding photographers captured an array of colour in chemical flame tests, and inks moving through oil and water.

Eager and excited, they further manipulated their images with software to generate some truly captivating pictures highlighting the connectivity of Art in Science.

STEAM L EG O BU I L DS CR E AT I V I T Y

The LEGO Solar Car exposed 40 Primary School students to the power and constraints of solar power. First, students built a LEGO car while considering the constraints of weight, friction and design. During the building phase, students needed to resolve where they would place

the electric motor, cogs and solar panel on the car. Students emulated the iteration stage in design, as many times during this process they needed to change or rebuild certain parts of their car. Not all students succeeded in producing a fully functional car, however it certainly has sparked

an interest in solar power. Grammar students had many ideas for future workshops that they would like to attend. (Pictured: Year 4’s Hayley Olive works on her car with RGS Primary Teacher Aide Nigel Mikkelsen.)

H A N DY WOR K I N ROBOT IC S The Robotic Hand workshop, led by Nikki Kelly, saw ten students from Years 7, 8 and 9 attempt to build a machine that would emulate a human hand. Students built robotic models from cardboard and straws to understand the anatomy and biomechanics of the human hand. They also constructed a sensorised glove that can detect the degree of bending of each finger. Once assembled, the students conducted trials visualising data in Excel to generate new ideas for improving the performance of the glove and robotic hand. (Pictured: Year 7 students Preston Long and Riley Hixon work on their robotic hands.)

Science uncovers new possibilities Science is a world of discovery and that also applies to students hoping to discover their specialty in this expansive career space. Year 10 students received an exciting glimpse into the world of Science during Term 2, courtesy of the “Surfing Scientist” Ruben Meerman, who graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Physics before catching a new wave into the school system. Science is more than just Biology, Chemistry or Physics. The challenge for each student is discovering their area of passion within Science. That was the message from guest speakers from the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute who addressed RGS students from Year 10 to Year 12 during the term. RGS Head of Science Barry Mullane said the QIMR scientists showed the students that the research and testing procedures that they follow in class are exactly the same as those followed by real scientists. “The students also heard about the latest research techniques and career opportunities in research,’’ Mr Mullane said. “Ruben’s talk showed real life applications and uses of the science that is taught in the classroom. “His enjoyable presentation was spoken about by our students for days afterwards.” Year 10 student Ama Gamayalage loved the “interesting and cool things” relating to Science presented by Ruben Meerman.

“The part I enjoyed the most was when he used liquid nitrogen and a balloon to show us the amount of carbon dioxide you breathe out and how that carbon dioxide goes into your body in the first place. It was something different from what we would do in the classroom,’’ Ama said. The QIMR outreach programme involved several of the Institute’s top scientists visiting a number of Queensland regional locations. QIMR Indigenous Health Research Program Communication Projects Officer Corey Jones said the talks allowed the students to hear the knowledge of their scientists and to promote career pathways. Mr Jones said the key was to have an open mind. “I think a lot of opportunities can be missed if kids think ‘this is what I need to focus on.’ Often you don’t know what you enjoy until you see it first hand,’’ Mr Jones said. “We (scientific researchers) don’t know everything. “Many of our researchers started out with a general interest in Science, but for many it’s a journey, starting in a different field of study,’’ Mr Jones said. “Once you get into tertiary education it’s really quite flexible and you might be exposed to one subject in a particular area that you really gel with.” One of the guest speakers, Dr Severine Navarro, works in the infectious diseases area. Severine started her studies in medicine before moving onto marine biology and then Parasitology infectious diseases.

Dr Grace Chojnowski and Lachlan Fennell discuss their areas of passion in Science. Other guest speakers included Dr Gregory Pratt (Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islander Health Research Manager), Dr Grace Chojnowski (QIMR Flow Cytometry and Microscopy Facility), Dr Liam Town (cancer immunisation therapies) and Lachlan Fennell (Phd student, cancer molecular genetics). Among the interested audience was RGS Year 11 student Sansuka De Silva. Sansuka has his sights set on medical studies after school and since Year 10 has enjoyed work experience in hospitals, medical clinics and research institutions. “I determined that I would enjoy the side of medicine that involves interacting with patients and diagnosing illnesses, but also would be very interested in pioneering cures for genetic disorders or cancer. Currently, I am hoping to become a clinical geneticist,’’ Sansuka said.

“The scientists made it very clear that we are the future of scientific research, and that our future holds great promise. “Revolutions of today will be mere feats within the next decades,’’ Sansuka said. “If we look back to around 30 years ago and compare it to today, I think it is quite amazing what science has done to our world.” Year 10 student Sumeet Prasad attended the talk to discover more about the different types of medical research. Sumeet has visions of becoming a neurosurgeon after school. “I was able to enjoy testing my knowledge of the medical field as well as the ability to interact with some of Queensland’s top research scientists,’’ Sumeet said. “Science allows for a greater understanding of the universe we live in through investigative procedures and rational thinking.”

COMMUNITY

Rocky Rotarians support students The North Rockhampton Rotary Club continues to be a strong supporter of education in the Rockhampton district. Throughout Term 2, the Rotary Club supported Primary’s Before School Reading Programme, with valued assistance also provided by RGS Year 11 students who helped the Primary students improve their reading levels. RGS Secondary students have also valued the Rotarians support through their annual Quiz competition, with both RGS Junior and Senior teams winning their respective divisions. Junior team members were Harshitha Peddireddy, Jane Brighton and Thayaghan Vignarajah. They donated their $1000 prize money to the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal. The RGS Senior team of William Etherington, Geneva Cocks and Benjamin Scott donated their $1000 prize for charity to Beyond Blue.

WHAT’S ON AT ROCKHAMPTON ART GALLERY Messy Mondays Every Monday Bubs: 9.30am-10.30am Tots: 10.45am-11.45am Yoga in the Gallery Every Monday and Wednesday 7.00am-8.00am School’s Out Art Mash-up: Lantern Making Tuesday 2 July 6 to 10s: 10.00am-12.00pm 8 to 14s: 1.30pm-3.30pm School’s Out Art Mash-up: Foam Plate and Collagraph Printing Tuesday 9 July 6 to 10s: 10.00am-12.00pm 8 to 14s: 1.30pm-3.30pm STEAM After-School Art Club Mondays, 15 July to 18 August 4.00pm-5.30pm Beeswax Wrap Making Wednesday 7 August Wednesday 4 September 6.00pm-8.00pm Parents Art Workshop Fridays, 9 August - 13 September 9.30am-11.00am

COMMUNITY

RGS success on the show circuit

Winning formula for maths champs

RGS Show Cattle Team members have once again impressed on the Central Queensland show circuit, topping off the season winning the Champion School title at this year’s Rockhampton Show.

It’s the first time any school has won every grade in the local Maths Team Challenge, held at Glenmore State High School this month. Results show teams from The Rockhampton Grammar School, from Years 5 to 12, each earned first places in the annual competition presented by the Queensland Association of Maths Teachers.

Lucy Prentice (Year 9) was also awarded the Grant Aggregate Supreme Student of the Show while Year 12 student Mackenzie Leeson impressed as a commercial cattle judge. Throughout the season the team also competed at shows including Ridgelands, The Caves, Yeppoon and Mt Larcom, while many RGS students also competed at their home district shows. Some team members will now prepare to compete at this year’s Ekka, in Brisbane, to wrap up their 2019 season. Pictured above (from left): Henry Gray, Will Tyson, Mackenzie Leeson, Lachlan Collins and coach Renee Rutherford.

Participants competed in five rounds, as individuals and in teams. In the fifth round all students compete individually in what’s known as the Shoot-Out, responding verbally to questions until the last person standing wins each year level. Pictured above (back row, from left): William Salmond (Year 9), James Vandeleur (Year 12), Sansuka De Silva (Year 11) Alain Li (Year 8); Front row: Harshitha Peddireddy (Year 10), Sharvani Ashokumar (Year 6), Ziran Lekha (Year 5), Mohid Khalil (Year 7).

School’s Out Art Mash-up: Dinosaur and Dragon Pottery Tuesday 24 September 6 to 10s: 10.00am-12.00pm 8 to 14s: 1.30pm-3.30pm

For more information, please call Rockhampton Art Gallery on 07 4936 8248 or visit rockhamptonartgallery.com.au

PAST STUDENT

NEWS

TESS CONNECTS WITH MUSIC Tess Waller (RGS 2016) has first-hand experienced the exhilaration a professional orchestral music career could one day offer.

After leaving RGS, Tess embarked on more detailed music studies with a double degree in Art/Music at Monash University.

In her second year of study at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, Tess (pictured right) last year toured Shanghai and Singapore, playing clarinet.

After a year at Monash, Tess’ clarinet teacher was offered a position at the Conservatorium and Tess followed her teacher.

“That was the moment that solidified for me that music was what I wanted to do,’’ Tess said.

“I think if you find a teacher that works and is really good for you, you have to stick with that teacher,’’ Tess said.

“It was sitting in the venue when the symphony orchestra was playing and listening to the sound we were creating and looking around at where we were performing.” Music has always filled Tess’ life. Her mum Dr Michelle Waller, a past staff member at RGS, was an outstanding musician in her own right and an advocate for music education and the benefits music has for brain development. “I was always exposed to music and maybe when I was four-years-old mum started me on piano, but that wasn’t my thing,’’ Tess said. Clarinet is definitely Tess’ thing. The Rockhampton Grammar School’s music programme provided a “starting point” and helped Tess’ music development. “Mum has always been my main influence (in music) but everyone else at Grammar also helped me,’’ Tess said.

Tess is amazed at the ensemble opportunities the Conservatorium has provided, including playing second clarinet in the University of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, in prominent Melbourne orchestral venues including Hamer Hall and Melbourne Recital Centre. “I’ve also had an opportunity to play first chair,’’ Tess said. “The standard is so incredibly different.” Tess still remembers her Conservatorium audition – a blind audition. “They (audition panel) didn’t know who I was, and I didn’t know who was on the panel. I was sitting behind a screen. I didn’t expect to feel that isolation.” Tess knows there is still a long road ahead in her pursuit of music dreams, but the talented clarinet player does know she wants to travel and maybe one day perform in Europe and the USA. The first step is completing her three year degree followed by one year of honours.

RGS Ag studies keep Matt on track Studying agriculture at CQUniversity is the perfect fit for Matthew Richardson (RGS 2017). The course allows Matthew to continue an interest in agriculture studies and fit in his ongoing swimming training commitments. He competed at the Australian World Swimming Trials. Richardson was awarded Dux of 1st year studies in his Bachelor of Agriculture last year and next year is looking at a possible major in livestock and business. “It’s good that this course is so broad,” Matt said. Matt is also finding his studies are helping at home with the family business. “We learn about all the soil and its health. I can use that at home.”

“It’s probably the least interesting thing you can learn but you need to know it for your cattle and grass,” Matt said. Matt is also grateful to his Agriculture studies at RGS which helped with an easier transition into university studies. The CQUniversity course also allows Matt to catch up with current RGS students when the university is conducting field work at Belmont Station. “It’s cool to see where you’re coming from and see if they will head down the same path,” Matt said. Matt wants current RGS students to just “go for it” if they are considering Agriculture studies. “It’s probably one of the only industries that we’re going to need in the future. Demand for food is definitely going up,” Matt said.

Distinguished Past Student

Saturday, 27 July 6pm @RGS. Tickets: $50 per person Includes hors d’oeuvres, limited drinks and three-course meal. Please RSVP at events@ rgs.qld.edu.au or call Rachael on 07 4936 0776 (before Friday 19 July). The Awards recognise the actions and achievements of Past Students who have gone above and beyond, and in doing so, encourages aspirations and ideals of the highest community standards and values. They are tangible models of good women and men to current students. It is the School community’s pre-eminent means of recognising outstanding achievement and contribution by Past Students in Community Service and Leadership, Academic and Professional Excellence or Sporting and Cultural Excellence. The School also acknowledges past staff members of the School for their memorable and devoted service during their time at RGS. Join us to say thank you.

Students drive support for farmers in drought and flood

News

RGS students, whether they call the land or town home, rallied together during Term 2 to raise funds for people on the land who both continue to hurt from the prolonged drought and those at the other extreme of life on the land who were devastated by floods. Laughter and smiles filled the RGS Spaceframe when the Farmers Challenge raised around $3000 for “Re-stocking the North West”, following flooding which devastated their stock and properties.

The Challenge hosted 12 teams, from Year 7 to Year 12 students, who tested their skills in events including a feedsack race, potatoes-in-the-sack, roll a swag and carry a hay bale. Thank you to the following businesses and families who supported the teams: Max and Jelli, Geoff and Dalrae Shaw, Tom and Suzanne Peacock, Tracey Curnow, Jackie & Peter Hill, G and J Taylor Excavations, Ashleigh and Tyron Harvey, Tanya Coles, Stewart and Tania Norford, RGS PE Department, Berkeley Park Beasts, Hayden Jones Livestock Haulage, RGS Matilda the Musical and Jenny & Greg New.

“The big drive to run this fundraiser was to help our fellow graziers who have had the biggest setback on record,’’ Jaiden said. The winning team members were the Year 12 boys team of Joe Maguire, Joe Callanan, Sam Curr, Riley Moller and Rohan Fenlon. While floods have crippled some businesses, others are still reeling from the ongoing impacts of the prolonged drought.

The limited-edition medallions, only 100 available, raised funds for drought affected committees. Grace Sypher and Jorja Luck wanted to be involved in the Drought Awareness Committee as it was something they could both relate to having grown up on the land. “Also seeing the heartache and pain that others are going through is really tough,’’ Grace said. “The coin fundraiser is a great way to raise money, but also provides an opportunity for people to do their bit to help improve situations.”

The RGS Drought Awareness Committee, with the support of RGS staff, cast some unique gold coins for a silent auction.

Open Day

JCU TOWNSVILLE Sunday 11 August, 10am–2pm

Check out what’s on at jcu.edu.au/openday #jcuopenday

Pictured above: Year 7 student Gracie Finger, from Clermont, battles with a swag nearly as big as herself;

Pictured right: The unique medallions created to help raise funds for drought affected communities. JCU CAIRNS

Sunday 25 August, 10am–2pm

CRICOS Provider Code 00117J

2019

Driving this fundraising challenge were students Jaiden Hill (Year 12) and Rory Jones (Year 11). Jaiden’s family, now living at Taroom, still has strong connections with family and friends in the Cloncurry district while Rory’s family business, Hayden Jones

Jaiden said it was great to create a fun event that saw so many Grammar students contribute, whether it was participating in the Challenge or puchasing a sausage on bread.

Livestock Haulage, has provided their time, trucks and fuel for the cause, transporting donated cattle to Julia Creek.

COMMUNITY

Did you know? There is a lot that goes into the running of The Rockhampton Grammar School on a daily basis. Here’s a snapshot of some things you might not have known about our school. ÞÞ The ELC serves over 105 570 meals a year ÞÞ There are 581 air conditioners around the school ÞÞ The facilities department manages 16 different properties ÞÞ The longest book title in the library is “75 easy-to-make muffin recipes: delicious home-baked muffins, buns, fruit loaves and quick breads, shown in more than 330 simple-tofollow step-by-step photographs” ÞÞ 150 cans of Glen 20 are used in the Health Centre per year (4 cans per school week) ÞÞ The original deed for the school farm was written on pig skin ÞÞ 1656 slices of cheese are consumed from the salad bar each week

Artwork by Matt Davis (RGS Senior Systems Manager, RGS parent and RGS past student - 1999)

SCHOLARSHIP

NAPLAN – instilling confidence in students Every year the NAPLAN data is closely scrutinised by parents and schools across Australia.

setting questions and marking our students in the same way as all other children across the nation.

The National Assessment Programme (Literacy And Numeracy) has been a regular fixture in Queensland schools since 1999.

“We use the data to inform our Professional Development needs for staff and this in turn encourages us to explore programmes and ideas to assist our students,’’ Mrs Spark said.

ACARA (Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority) took over the assessment program in 2008 - Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students continue to sit the suite of tests. RGS Assistant Head of Primary Janet Spark said at The Rockhampton Grammar School, we still see the value in an outside organisation

At RGS our Year 3, 5 and 7 students stay in their classrooms to complete the assessments, Year 9s (pictured below) sit the tests in Duggan Hall. “Our belief is that if we are teaching the curriculum from our school programmes, our children will have

the confidence to participate to the best of their ability,’’ Mrs Spark said. Teachers aim to incorporate potential NAPLAN test scenarios into the curriculum studies, with past text examples available to schools. Mrs Spark said reading was probably the most important skill for the younger students to complete the tests. “We put a lot of time into assisting our children learn, practice and enjoy reading,’’ Mrs Spark said. Mrs Spark is also pleased RGS sat the paper version of the test in 2019, avoiding the widespread IT issues that affected other schools.

“Fortunately we also have great IT support at our School should we all have to complete the tests online. However I would like to see us hold out as long as possible to avoid stress on all parties involved in the programme.” Mrs Spark said the School usually receives the results in August and that allows plenty of time to confirm our teachers’ assessments and work on individual needs for the coming year. Students will also receive individual assessment reports.

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CQUni Open Days

COMMUNITY

Personal connection to the annual RGS head shave RGS teacher Tim Hodgetts has been a long supporter of the First XIII rugby league team’s annual head shave. He has also been a participant, despite not having a great deal of hair to part with. This year’s Shave for a Cure was even more personal and emotional for Tim, after his mum passed away in March this year due to complications from lymphoma. He was joined at the shave by his twin sons, Jake and Jordy, both in Year 3 at RGS. “It was very different for me this year,’’ said Tim, who works in RGS Boys Boarding. “Mum passed away in March from complications from lymphoma. We are a very close-knit family. Everyone was devastated by the loss. “I’m lost for words, it was very emotional to have the boys there to do this for their nan. It brought everything back to the surface a bit. “They were nervous but they asked to be involved so they could do something in honour of Nanny.” Tim is also proud of all the RGS First XIII rugby league players who shave their heads each year before the annual Confraternity Shield carnival.

RGS First XIII rugby league players have parted with their hair for around 10 years and in 2017 the group officially came on board with Shave for a Cure, which raises money for the Leukaemia Foundation. “It’s great to see that they can think of someone else outside of their own bubble and the bigger picture of what’s happening out there in the wider community,’’ Tim said. “It’s nice that at Year 11, Year 12 they can already start thinking about other people.” One of those Year 12 students was Amy Neaton who cut 40cm off her long hair to donate towards making wigs for cancer patients. “It’s amazing that these guys are willing to do this when a social media presence is so important to have that perfect look, perfect lifestyle on every platform of social media and yet the boys are now going months looking like potatoes and Amy’s cut her hair off,’’ Tim said. “For teenagers to be able to do that and think about someone else other than themselves is amazing.”

COMMUNITY

Year 10 Adventures The annual RGS Year 10 Outdoor Education programme has again proved a character building experience for students. Students had the option of travelling to Vietnam and New Zealand where they took in amazing scenery while also helping with community projects, battling windy conditions sailing in the Whitsundays, paddling the Noosa River and hiking in Carnarvon Gorge. Here’s a snapshot of their adventures.

STUDENTS EMBRACE CHARACTERS Ella Plumb and Wesley Muir are at different stages of their secondary school musical theatre careers, but they still share the same passion, writes Rachael McDonald. You start talking with RGS Year 12 student Wesley Muir and you have to think hard about what he really sounds like – so quick is Wesley to switch into his character of Miss Trunchbull. Wesley is one of the central characters in the upcoming RGS Secondary School Musical, Matilda, hitting the stage across four performances at the Pilbeam Theatre from 9 – 11 August. Roald Dahl’s Matilda embraces some big personalities on stage, from the fiveyear-old Matilda yearning to learn and find a loving environment, the delightful teacher Miss Honey, a host of unique students and the scary Miss Trunchbull. “She is disgusting, filthy, cruel, awful, every bad thing you can imagine put into one person, but it’s fun to play,’’ Wesley said. “It’s not like any other character that I’ve ever played before. She’s a very unique character. “I think the audience will be shocked but think it’s hilarious – I hope.” Wesley is relishing the opportunity for another lead role after his breakthrough lead role as Scott in Strictly Ballroom last year. This followed two years of fun in the chorus – a time Wesley will always remember and be grateful for – before getting a small role and an understudy role in Little Shop of Horrors. While he dreamed of taking on a lead role, he had to step outside of his comfort zone to have a go. 14

“Chorus and lead roles are totally different things. It’s really good to do both. You have more of a responsibility as a lead role and it’s nice to have it,’’ Wesley said. “I’ve always loved theatre and doing stuff on stage, but never thought I’d do anything like this. But as I did more musicals I kept falling in love with it. “It comes with a lot of time and a lot of practice.” “You realise as long as you do the best you possibly can no one can judge you. You’re proving it to yourself and entertaining people.” Wesley hopes to get another opportunity to perform in a musical once he finishes school. Young Matilda Wormwood has many secondary school musicals ahead of her, with Year 7 student Ella Plumb both shocked and excited to take on the lead role. “Matilda is very smart and clever. Her parents aren’t nice to her. They think she’s the dirt on their shoe. She gets treated really badly at home. When she goes to school she has an amazing teacher but a horrible principal (Miss Trunchbull),’’ said Ella of her lead character. Ella always wanted to be involved in her first secondary school musical this year and was even more excited when she found out the production was Matilda and a “little girl” lead role was an option.

“It’s a lot of hours with photo shoots, singing and acting but it’s all really fun,’’ Ella said. “I’m with my friends all the time. I love singing, acting and dancing. It’s just what I love to do.” Ella was Gloria, the hippopotamus, in last year’s RGS Primary Musical Madagascar Jnr, but has a few more lines to learn this year in one of the lead roles. The excited young performer hopes the audience loves the show just as much as she does. “The audience will see a lot of sharp movements in the dance numbers. It will be quick and snappy and exciting with the light effects,’’ Ella said. “Some characters are really scary, some are really nice, and the songs are just amazing.” Matilda tickets are available from the Pilbeam Theatre or online at See It Live seeitlive.com.au

COMMUNITY

M AT I L DA STAGE DE SIGN C A P T U R E S RGS H ISTORY RGS past student Michael Kennedy (RGS 2001) has an eye for exceptional photography and a passion for musical theatre stage design.

“He photographed them in the Middle School Library after he had accessed them from the archive bookcase.

It is this combination that caught his eye when working through ideas for the Matilda stage sets for the 2019 RGS Secondary School Musical at the Pilbeam Theatre.

“It’s just a nice way to put a bit of RGS into our production.”

Matilda’s school house will be transformed with images from our own RGS School Library capturing images of books that students at the school many decades ago would have used. Matilda Director Jan Kennedy said Michael, Jan’s son, came up with the idea of using the books from the archive collection in the RGS Middle School Library was because Matilda the Musical and the book storyline of Matilda is all about books, so he thought what a great way to put a little bit of RGS into the set design. “As we were unable to replicate the set design from the West End productions, Michael came up with the idea of a full backdrop of large books and then four side flats of smaller books on their sides facing different ways,’’ Jan said. “He wanted old authentic books with gold markings on the covers and spines and he decided that the School had the exact books he was after.

The characters bring a musical to life, but the stage setting also plays a major role in drawing the audience into the magic of musical theatre. Michael is as precise in his stage designs as he is with his amazing photographs. “We have a very modular set this year with multipurpose trucks,’’ Michael said. “We are sectioning off areas of the stage for scenes to play out in, rather than have multiple large full stage sets. “The backdrop and side legs are a way to create a diorama type effect so we bring the audience into the world of Matilda for a few hours and never leave it.” Michael said the books were perfect because books are an important part of the show and Matilda’s character. “The old books will bring a richness of colour to the stage and frame everything rather than have elements seemingly float if they were set against black backgrounds,’’ Michael said.

“It’s just a nice way to put a bit of RGS into our production.” Jan Kennedy

Early Lear Learning is a lot of fun at the RGS Early Learning Centre. The Rockhampton Grammar School is providing the best possible opportunities for Kindy students preparing to start their formal school years, writes Rachael McDonald. Seeing how far they throw a ball, mixing paints to discover an amazing new colour, dancing to a new beat or learning new words at the end of a pencil - it’s all part of the Kindergarten journey and a world of learning new and exciting things. The Rockhampton Grammar School’s Early Learning Centre is working closely with The Rockhampton Grammar School to provide a fun journey of discovery and help best prepare the Kindergarten students for Prep. ELC Kindergarten students share the same playground, classrooms and specialty lessons as RGS Primary and Secondary students. It might be a PE lesson at the ‘big’ school – running

around on the School’s spacious bottom oval or heading indoors to Duggan Hall – under the guidance of an RGS Physical Education teacher. The same teacher who educates our Secondary School students – helping also fine tune the older students’ motor skills in a variety of sports. Kindergarten students are learning just like RGS Primary and Secondary students. They share the same paint and canvas in the RGS Art rooms, the same classroom where RGS students are also fine tuning their newly learned art techniques. They dance to the beat of the same drum in the RGS Primary Music classroom.

The ‘big’ school is a familiar play and learning space for ELC Kindergarten students. Each child learning at their own pace in a supportive environment. RGS Early Learning Centre Director Adeina Shackleton said the benefits of the Kindy children being immersed in the specialist lessons provided the children the opportunity to work with other RGS teachers in their Kindy environment. “This allows the children the opportunity to engage with other teachers, however they are still with their Kindergarten teachers and educators,’’ Mrs Shackleton said.

“Having the children visit the ‘big’ school allows for a 12-month transition to Prep. “The Kindy children navigate around the School by visiting the Prep Rooms, Duggan Hall, Prep playground and School library.” Mrs Shackleton said once the children have commenced at Prep the settling in period is very minimal as the children are familiar with the primary environment.

Sarah Kelly – Art Teacher

Elisa Williams – Music Teacher

Annmarie Noovao – PE Teacher

“They are extremely excitable! My intentions, and hope, are to allow our Kindy friends to experience aspects of Art that they won’t necessarily already be exposed to in their day-to-day classes.

“You never know what you are going to get. They all have such different little personalities. It is also lovely to watch the younger students come out of their shell over the course of the year.

“Being able to offer a variety of physical activity experiences and observing how each child develops, and gains confidence, in what they are doing is amazing.

A fundamental focus includes ensuring they build an art appreciation while developing their understanding of the world around them. Experimentation is encouraged! It helps develop the right side of their brain and helps build their self-esteem.”

In the early years of teaching there is a strong focus on play based learning so I try to incorporate that into the music lessons with a lot of songs that are movement and game based. Teaching the Kindy students has also allowed me to progress my Prep programme further and introduce more challenging topics at an earlier age.”

I treat these children just like they are my children (I have four children) - nurture, challenge, encourage and most importantly praise them. Each child enjoys being active and each child perseveres and doesn’t give up when it is hard to do! Seeing each child smile and enjoy PE is special.”

rning Years know ST U DE N T S T E ACH I NG T E ACH E R S Rockhampton Grammar School Prep and Kindy students are giving university students a lesson in teaching, with plenty of smiles and giggles being shared along the journey. CQUniversity Bachelor of Education students have been working with the enthusiastic learners throughout Term 2, with their “Art focused” lessons culminating in fun activities at Romp in the Park. Not only has the classroom provided new learning opportunities for the young students, but the university’s volunteer programme has also provided a new teaching pathway for the aspiring teachers. CQUniversity third year student Lori Guest admitted she did not have a lot of background in teaching the Arts, which includes Music and Drama.

“It’s a different subject area for me to get my head around. The dancing, art and music are also new things for me to learn,’’ Lori said. CQUniversity Senior Lecturer, and Head of Course, Dr Rickie Fisher explained the Arts was one of the learning areas in the Australian curriculum and an area that many primary school teachers struggle with. Dr Fisher said this programme between the university and RGS provided an authentic opportunity for the volunteer Bachelor of Education students to further develop their learning experiences. Bachelor of Education student, and RGS past student, Stephanie Kahl (RGS 2016) said this programme provided her with another opportunity to see what the kids wanted from

her as a teacher and how she can cater for their needs, especially the younger children who she had not previously worked with. “The Arts programme gives us the opportunity to get the children to move and be involved in play,’’ Stephanie said. “If I wasn’t doing this programme I would probably struggle if I was put into a class with really young students. It’s good to know that I can help them develop their skills.” RGS Prep teacher Adair Mehlhose said this programme provided the university students with an opportunity to plan and explore the Foundation Year of the Australian Curriculum in The Arts. “Lesson plans are great on paper but they don’t always go according to plan,’’ Ms Mehlhose said.

“This is a unique opportunity for these students to experience the unpredictability of young children and cope with impromptu situations. “The ability to think on your feet, to assess situations, to engage students and change a plan mid-flight if needed is an important skill to develop.” Ms Mehlhose said this had been a wonderful opportunity for both the Prep and Kindy children and the university students.

RGS TE ACHER S A ND W H Y THEY LOVE W H AT THEY DO Dr Phillip Moulds | Headmaster “It is a wonderful warm, welcoming, and challenging community.” “I started teaching in 1991 at Brisbane Grammar School, straight out of the University of Queensland. I was the youngest in the Science Department by 19 years and was very lucky to get to work with, and learn from, some outstanding and experienced teachers. In my first few years I taught Chemistry, coached A grade Rugby and Cricket teams, and worked as a Boarding Master at the School. It’s the people that make RGS different. It is a wonderful warm, welcoming, supportive and challenging

community. I love getting to be a part of the lives of the students, staff and parents, and hopefully make a contribution to all the students growing into young men and women of great character and scholarship. The best part of my job is working with the students. Whether it be taking the Jazz Ensemble, in the classroom or watching a match on the sporting field, it is fantastic to see how RGS students bond together and share a special connection that goes way beyond the School gates.”

Sammy Cobon | Agriculture Teacher “...dedicate time to being educated in a field that you are passionate in...” “This is my second year here at RGS and my favourite part about working here is making genuine relationships with the students and giving them opportunities within Agriculture which allow them to thrive and for some students, bring them closer to home.

My message to these students would be to ensure you dedicate time to being educated in a field that you are passionate about and look beyond the boundaries which might hinder your skills and potential to be capitalised on, regardless of your age, gender and culture.”

Adair Mehlhose | Prep Teacher “I love that RGS is a very multi-cultural school...” “At Prep, we give the children opportunities to be who they want to be. I love that RGS is a very multicultural school. We have many nationalities and I love it when the parents come in and they tell stories about their home and what they used to do when they were children.

It teaches the children that every place has a soul. This enables the other children to learn so much from their culture and learn that even though we’re different on the outside, on the inside our hearts are the same.”

Noel Philips | IDT Teacher “I was a Boilermaker tradesperson for 22 years...” “I was a Boilermaker tradesperson for 22 years, working in the sugar mills around Bundaberg where I did my apprenticeship. I used to train apprentices as a tradesperson and really enjoyed the field of teaching a young, impressionable mind so thought I would become a Design Technology teacher.

I really like enlightening young minds and watching that spark of recognition in their eyes when a concept is finally understood and internalised.”

Teaching is not a one size fits all for all teachers. Each has their own approach to helping educate our students and their own reasons for wanting to be a teacher. Capricornus Quarterly caught up with some of our teachers to find out why they love doing what they do each week.

Stewart Norford | Director of Boarding “Boarding school should feel like a second home...” “Families come to us looking for opportunities for their child in education and personal development beyond what can be provided at home. Boarding school should feel like a second home, parents want their children to feel safe, happy and well looked after. We work hard to make sure everyone feels connected to the RGS family through good communication and personal visits where possible.

I love seeing students thrive in our environment. They might be a bit hesitant or homesick on arrival, but find their way with increasing confidence and grow into independent, self-assured young men and women. It’s a privilege to be part of that.”

Todd Wells | Director of Co-Curricular “...the foundations and traditions of the School are still a significant part of everyday life at Grammar.” “I love that I have the opportunity every day to try and provide the next generation of RGS students with the same opportunities I had. Most importantly I love seeing the students striving to do their best every time they represent the School in the famous red and black colours.

There have been significant physical changes to the campus since I was a student; RGS certainly provides greater opportunities to current students. The foundations and traditions, however, are still significant parts of everyday life at Grammar. I am continually amazed by what the students achieve inside and outside the classroom.”

Geoff Hadwen | Head of Primary “We like to focus on experiences, not just the curriculum.” “[In Primary] we like to focus on experiences, not just the curriculum. That means our Preppies get to cook, feed the chooks, do PE every day and even have their folks spend the day in the classroom, if they want to. One of the highlights of the school year is when the Year 6 students are farewelled.

They do a tour through the whole School and everyone lines up and gives them a high five. It’s really gratifying to see them grow up and then carry on up the hill to continue their education.”

Dr Nikki Kelly | Science Teacher “...I still love seeing the students have ‘lightbulb’ moments...” “After a decade of teaching, I still love seeing students have ‘lightbulb’ moments and watching them achieve beyond what they believed possible.

I’m also enjoying being part of the STEAM team at RGS, providing innovative opportunities for students to ignite their passion for science.”

SPORT

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO LEARN Have you always wanted to try a new sport but thought it was too late? It’s never too late to learn something new, writes Rachael McDonald. The Rockhampton Grammar School’s Co-Curricular programme offers something for everyone, at every level.

“Your new sport or activity may be something that you are really talented in and this may open up numerous opportunities for you in the future.”

With over 35 sports and activities on offer, at the start of each year new students study all the options available. However, just because you didn’t start a sport on your first day at RGS or you haven’t played that sport before doesn’t mean it’s too late to have a go.

Mr Wells said latest theories suggest that students who do a variety of sports are activating and developing different parts of the brain.

RGS Director of Co-Curricular Todd Wells regularly encourages students to participate in sport, knowing there is significant research about the positives of physical activity for students benefiting their physical development, concentration and social interaction. “The foundation of the School is providing opportunities for students and when students take these opportunities to develop new skills they receive a number of physical and social benefits,’’ Mr Wells said. “Who knows what may come from trying something new.”

“For example, students who mix a sporting pursuit with something within the cultural programme are challenging and evolving different parts of their brain,’’ Mr Wells said. “Adding to that, students who take up new sports or activities challenge their brain to manipulate the identification of new stimulus, respond to that stimulus and then execute a response. “There are also the social benefits of interacting with different peer groups and establishing connections with students from other sports and activities.” Capricornus Quarterly caught up with some RGS students who have tried a new sport in 2019:

JARDINE WINS THE RACE AGAIN

Lee Mauger (Year 8), Golf “I just wanted to give it a go. I got a chocolate for having the best technique. It was fun just whacking the ball and seeing how far it goes. Just have a go. You can’t be bad at it. You have to try it and see if you like it the same as I did. With golf, I had a go and I just got into it.” Lily Burnham (Year 12), AFL “I wanted to play AFL because it’s an Australian sport that I’ve never tried before. I felt excited and nervous at the same time when I started playing, but since our whole team was in the same boat we had each other to laugh with and care for each other. Trying a new sport has to be one of the most courageous and rewarding things in the world. It brings laughter, confidence, experience, fitness and friendships together and that’s why I chose to try out AFL.” Brooke Hutson (Year 7), Rowing “I wanted to try rowing because it seemed to look like fun and it was something new and gave me something to do on the weekends.

AGE CHAMPIONS ATHLETICS (Secondary)

12 Years Girls 12 Years Boys

Alice Besch Oscar Wemmerslager

13 Years Girls 13 Years Boys

Hannah Rea and Maggie Tapp James Boicos

14 Years Girls 14 Years Boys

Megan Adamski Chad Willett

15 Years Girls 15 Years Boys

Caitlyn White Bradley Taylor

16 Years Girls 16 Years Boys

Lillie Bain Jackson Cheesman

Open Girls Open Boys

Layne Ivey Jayden Mills

When I first got in the boat it was unstable and it made me worry that I might fall in. But, after a while I got the hang of it and I felt confident. I enjoyed being on the water and listening to the waves. It was challenging when I took a stroke and one of oars would not go into the water but after a while I got used to it. I love rowing and I look forward to keeping going.” Will Old (Year 12), AFL “ I have always had close friends that played (AFL) but I personally did not know too much about it. I want to make the most of my final year at Grammar utilising every opportunity put in front of me, even if I had no idea what I was doing. I had no prior knowledge upon signing up for AFL. I thought I would use the “learn as I go” tactic. I had never played nor watched it on TV which presented itself as a slight issue when I actually ran on the field and was expected to do something. It was just a fun day out learning new skills and spending time with friends. The main advice I want to give is to just get out there and have a

go whether it’s sport or not. RGS has great opportunities and has lots to offer. Do not waste that. We still talk about it and have a laugh about our day out at the footy fields. Even if you are a little nervous, unaware of how to play or just scared to stuff up, still put your name down for a bit of fun. Meredith Ross (Year 12), Cricket “I decided to try out playing cricket because I grew up always watching a game on the telly, as well as getting up every Saturday morning to watch my brothers play. All of my friends wanted to give it a try as well so I just went for it. I was extremely nervous for my first game I was afraid that I would be so bad! But after a couple of minutes I knew the whole team was having fun and no one cared how good you were. The whole experience was too much fun. To anyone thinking of trying a new sport, just go for it, you can only learn. Being surrounded by your friends, like I was, makes any sport so much fun!” Primary Friday Sport is also providing a great avenue for students to discover new sports.

Some are trying hockey or softball for the first time while others are having their first game of rugby league. Here are some Year 5 students thoughts on trying something new: George Pentecost, AFL “I originally went with soccer but then it was a good opportunity to try a different sport. I’ve enjoyed playing with a team and I enjoyed scoring lots of goals. Learning how to kick was hard. I’ve played a lot of rugby so I wasn’t used to kicking.” Lawson James, Rugby League “I thought it would be good to do something different for a change. It’s a really good team sport and enjoyable for everybody. Have a go at it, you never know if it could go good or bad, it’s great to try new things and have a go at it.”

Layne Hodgetts, Hockey “I knew there would be a lot of girls doing netball and tennis. I’ve liked being on the turf and being able to use the stick to move the ball. It was exciting but nerve-wracking.” Missy-Leigh Hayes, Hockey “I picked it because I always wanted to play hockey, even though I’m not the sporty type.” Zak Bryce Flannery, Rugby League “I wanted to see how good I could go at it. It was a bit stressful because I didn’t know how to do any of the things. It’s pretty normal now.”

“RGS has great opportunities and has lots to offer. Do not waste that.” Will Old, Year 12

SP ORT S BR I E F S BASKETBALL

NETBALL

The RGS Gold Senior Boys basketball team won their grand final mid-June in Duggan Hall with a strong 70-40 point win over Emmaus College. Riley Wessling was named Most Valuable Player of the Final. Thanks to all the RGS families and students who supported the team in the final.

RGS had eight teams qualify for the Rockhampton District Secondary Schools Netball grand finals in Term 2 with four teams taking out premierships. Winning teams for the 2019 season were Meteors, Liberty, Bullets and Lakers. Runners-up were: Storm, Warriors, Sparks and Magic. The RGS Magic 1st VII played in the Open A final going down to TCC. Goal Defence was named the team’s most valuable player.

TAEKWON-DO

Kaine Kennedy (Year 10) achieved his 2nd Degree Black Belt in ITFA Taekwon-Do. Kaine’s hard work did not go un-noticed by Senior Master Andrew K H Rhee, 8th Dan and Founder of the ITFA, requesting that Kaine sit his Grading 6 months early. Kaine’s Grading started on a Friday night at 4pm and finished at 4pm on a Sunday. Kaine was placed under extreme pressure and handled it with great maturity.

RGS MVPs in finals were: (Magic) Samantha Namasasu; (Meteors) Ella James; (Liberty) Layne Ivey; (Storm) Lily Gray; (Lakers) Olivia Maynard; (Bullets) Anna Hepburn; (Warriors) Ella McCauley and (Sparks) Lily Cottam.

PHOTOS

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Top Row: Olivia Maynard and Riley Moller at the Year 12 Formal; Charlie McDonald works his way to the basket for RGS, Prep’s Tate Casey and Richard Pershouse are all smiles at Romp in the Park.

Top Row: RGS Confraternity Shield rugby league and QISSN netball captains for 2019 (from left) Walter Wilson, Cane Comiskey, Emily Horsley and Samantha Namasasu; RGS musicians strike up a tune at the RGS Race Day; Deep Bhowmik joins his Year 6 class at the RGS Library’s Book Fair;

2nd Row: Lilly Keleher prepares for her Year 9 Art lesson; Year 7’s Lachlan Donoghue adds the finishing touches to his tractor mask; Year 7’s Jayden Hawley and Struan Munro prepare to march at ANZAC Day. 3rd Row: Joining the RGS contingent at ANZAC Day were Year 12’s Amber Phimmasone, Olivia McCamley, Olivia Leighton and Buhuni Gunasinghe; 4th Row: Supporting this year’s Relay for Life were Year 11 boarders (back row from left) Logan Stumer, Max Thornton, Peter New, Tom Pownall (front row, from left) Mikealy Ryan, Natalie Marks, Taylor O’Toole and Patrick Chay.

2nd Row: All smiles at Year 8 Form Camp are (from left) Sam Young, Lawson Denniss and Tom Brown; 3rd Row: Year 5’s Neal Dhamsania swept the field at this chess tournament; Year 12’s Will Etherington prepares to represent Capricornia at the Water Polo State Championships; Year 11 Dance student Georgiana Russell moves through her dance examination; 4th Row: Arianna Hanson (Year 7) and Lucia Kennedy-Frame (Year 8) celebrate National Boarders Week; Preparing for Primary School photos are Year 6 students (from left) Kathleen Nguyen, Seth Holgate, Ella Doyle, Riley Hansen and Caylee Fisher; Budding Year 4 Biologists (from left) Archie Cugola, Leyton Steinhardt and Joshua Walsh. 5th Row:Year 11’s Jack Barsby Shaves for a Cure; Greg Hicks and son Oliver at the Year 7 Showcase.

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THE FINAL WORD

Positive culture: Set the standard

Former New Zealand rugby union player Ant Strachan visited RGS with the Auckland Rugby International Academy. He spoke with Rachael McDonald about a positive culture. It’s no fluke that the New Zealand All Blacks rugby union team is one of the most highly rated teams in world sport, both for their on-field and off-field presence. It’s not something that occurs naturally. It’s about “the environment you create”. Auckland Rugby International Academy Head, and former All Black, Ant Strachan should know. He played for the All Blacks from 1992 – 1995, including the 1995 World Cup. Strachan was just one member of the Academy’s coaching staff who worked with RGS rugby players, and other students from across the State, at a camp hosted by The Rockhampton Grammar School in April. “We’re about preaching the gospel of rugby,’’ Strachan said. “This group came from far and wide. They were a bit fragmented to start, which is what you expect, but at the end they are connected, have had fun and some had tears as they disappeared back home. “They become one family and one culture.

“It can be done in a short space of time. You just have to set a really strong platform. “You have to have standards and you’ve got to build opportunities, have fun, challenge them at times, and you have to get them to help each other. “It’s a teaching philosophy that revolves around the rugby ball.” Rugby is the national game in New Zealand with Ant playing his first game of rugby as a six-year-old. “We played in bare feet when we first started. It was about fun, enjoyment, playing with mates and we loved the competition,’’ Strachan said. Strachan was later fortunate enough to feel the honour of playing for his country. This playing opportunity also provided an insight into the bigger picture of what makes the All Blacks so successful. “To wear the black jersey is significant,’’ Strachan said. “We have a responsibility once we put the jersey on.

Ant Strachan The half back played 17 matches for the All Blacks, including 11 internationals, between 1992 and 1995 24

“Rugby has a soul to it. It’s about trust, respect, honesty, friendship and hard work. You’re a role model to many and you have to have integrity. “You (as a player and past player) try to filter that down from the top level to the youngsters, high school and playing club rugby.” This culture is not standalone to rugby. It relates to any team, whether that be on the sporting field, in the workplace or at school. “The ultimate litmus test for any team sport is when the pressure comes on, what happens to the core, the soul of your team. If that’s broken and segregated it will break down and continue to break down,’’ Strachan said. “If it’s (core) is strong and tight and everyone respects and trusts each other, and works hard for each other, it’s very hard to break.” Strachan, his fellow coaches and the Rugby Skills Academy, who hosted the successful camp, want the players to be in an environment that they love and are taking away new tools to help their game.

“It’s around positivity and confidence,’’ Strachan said. “They were a whole raft of different levels when they arrived and now they have a real positive spin about the game. “Some were a bit overwhelmed but have built friendships but we want them to go away with an overwhelming positive attitude. “Some pushed us hard, asked a lot of questions to value add to their game. We now hope they take that back to their clubs and schools.” RGS Rugby supporter, Rugby Skills Academy founder and coach Onéhunga Mata’uiau, coordinated the visit from the Auckland Rugby International Academy. Onehunga represented Samoa in rugby for eight years, including playing in the 1999 Rugby World Cup and 1998 Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games. He has been coaching rugby for over 15 years. Ant Strachan – “This programme is his (Oné’s) dream and he does a great job. He’s one of those people that’s well organised and understands the soul of the game. I couldn’t speak highly enough of the Rugby Skills Academy in this part of the world.”

“You have to have standards and you’ve got to build opportunities, have fun, challenge them at times, and you have to get them to help each other.”

THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL presents

PILBE B AM THEATRE AUGUST 9 - 11 Book DENNIS KELLY

Music & Lyrics TIM MINCHIN

Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia). All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia.

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