Quarterly Capricornus
VOL 38. No.2. JULY 2022
AWARD
VOLUNTEERS
CREATIVITY
Headmaster receives OAM in Queen’s Birthday honour Page 3
Year 10 students help the community Page 9
RGS family bands together to set the scene Page 10
The Rockhampton Grammar School Grow in Character and Scholarship
www.rgs.qld.edu.au
Around the Classrooms at RGS Highlights
See all events, full details and upto-date information at RGS Parent Lounge
YEAR 1 BUGS
YEAR 5 CAMP
YEAR 7 MUSIC
YEAR 9 DISCOVERY
YEAR 12 CHEMISTRY
Bug Ball Celebrations
Island Science
Creating ringtones
What About Me
In Year 1, it’s been a term of all things creepy-crawly with students investigating insects in their Science unit. Through the use of Eric Carle literature, and numerous factual texts, the students investigated bugs of all kinds, increasing their knowledge enormously. Commonly used words now include metamorphosis, proboscis, elytra and chrysalis - both in conversation and writing. This unit provides the students with the ability to write their own Information Report on a chosen insect, experience their first Oral Presentation and the unit culminates with the Bug Ball celebration! This year saw our regular butterflies, bees, ladybugs and dragonflies as well as the more unusual choices of dung beetles, cockroaches and flies.
The annual camp to North Keppel Island, now officially known as Konomie Island, is an incredible educational and social experience, and one that supports the School motto, Grow in Character and Scholarship. The main purpose of the camp is to complement the Year 5 Science unit, ‘Adaptations’, and HaSS unit, ‘Indigenous Changes to the Environment’. Konomie Island offered the students a range of opportunities to develop this knowledge and understanding. A visit to the museum, a night walk to Maize Bay and the mangrove study, all enhance this learning. The Konomie Island visit is a positive experience for both students and staff.
Year 7 students last term participated in an exciting, redesigned music programme at RGS. The technology rich programme features online textbooks, instructional videos and digital sheet music that is available for students to download both at school and at home. During the programme students are learning how to create their own short ringtones using compositional software called BandLab for Education. As part of the performance component in the Year 7 Music studies, students are learning to play the guitar and keyboard.
Year 9 boys and girls have been on a journey of discovery throughout Term 2. Breaking into new Form Classes, which included either all boys or all girls, the students wrapped up their term-journey with a week-long series of activites which included hiking up Mt Archer, pushing themselves through a caving experience and listening to talks about how to help them navigate life’s journey. It’s a “Rite of Passage’ for the students – a term that has been at the fundamental heart of many cultures around the world in the maturing of young people into adulthood over thousands of years. It’s a stepping stone to greater maturity and responsibility. Thank you to all RGS staff involved in helping create this memorable programme.
Chemical Reactions
Thank you RGS sponsors for sharing with us our mission of developing whole people through a balance of academic, sporting, co-curricular and social activities. If you would like to become a sponsor of RGS Sports or any cocurricular activity please contact Todd Wells, Director of Co-Curricular on 0488 778 300 or email twells@rgs.qld.edu.au
Year 12 chemistry students used their knowledge of organic chemistry into practice and conducted an experiment to investigate the reaction of some functional groups and observed distinguishing features of reactions. Students identified the sweet banana smell of an ester made from mixing together an alcohol and acetic acid. The differences in oxidation of alcohols was observed through colour changes.
DR PHILLIP MOULDS OAM HEADMASTER
Inside RGS honoured with an “Excellence Award” For the fourth consecutive year, The Rockhampton Grammar School has been awarded an “Excellence Award” and recognised as a finalist for the title of Regional School of the Year in the annual Australian Education Awards. Accolades such as these are never our goal, but they do provide external validation of the School’s consistent achievement of high quality outcomes across a range of measures including governance, academics, student wellbeing and staff development. The acknowledgment reflects what we all work so hard to achieve, and the sustained commitment and efforts of our students, staff and our community to ensure that RGS is a place where young people can grow in character and scholarship. Recently I had the pleasure of welcoming, 25 Principals and Headmasters, from Independent Schools across Australia, to RGS. The delegation was broken into small groups and taken on an extensive campus tour led by our School Captains, Faith Maynard and George Plumb, Vice-Captains, Mary Esplin and Henry Dingle and senior students Ben Wright and Jacqueline Sleaford. While the delegation was clearly impressed by our immaculate grounds, facilities, values and academic achievements, what impressed them most of all were our students. Not surprisingly, the students did an outstanding job – answering some difficult questions and guiding the very experienced educators around the School with confidence, curiosity and warmth. Nothing speaks louder of the quality of a school than its students. I was immensely proud to not only witness the character displayed by our students, but to then have my fellow Headmasters remark on the way in which our students conducted themselves was added validation. The reason our School is a finalist for Regional School of the Year was brought to life on this day, not only by the fantastic work of our Senior Students but through every student and staff interaction that occurred throughout the School during the visit. It has been a Term filled with proud and rewarding moments just like these, and I hope that you enjoy reading about more of them in this issue of the Capricornus Quarterly.
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) 07 4936 0600 ISSN 1839-4663 ©2022 The Rockhampton Grammar School
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, Director Development and Communications 07 4936 0668 smoloney@rgs.qld.edu.au
2 4 5 7
SCHOLARSHIP
Top Results
Students excel in chosen fields COMMUNITY
elping Others H Supporting others in need
COMMUNITY
Music Talent
Music Festival hits the stage PAST STUDENTS
Artistic Flair
Fraser’s backstage adventures COMMUNITY
12 Finding a Voice
Students brave public speaking
COMMUNITY
14 Your Tribe
Finding your support group
SPORTS
17 Athletics Champions
Wheatcroft and Kellow win titles
18 RGS photo gallery THE FINAL WORD
20 Painting a Story
James Waterton collaboration
On the cover:
RGS students have engaged in a collaborative Indigenous art project during Term 2. Read more about the project in “The Final Word”, page 20.
Mrs Rachael McDonald 07 4936 0776 rmcdonald@rgs.qld.edu.au Mrs Ashleigh Harvey 07 4936 0667 aharvey@rgs.qld.edu.au
THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY / 1
SCHOLARSHIP
IN THE NEWS RGS students are mixing it with the best from around the State and the nation, whether that be in public speaking, mathematics competitions or a business challenge. Here is just a snapshot of achievements from Term 2!
National Finalist
Mathematics Champions
Jazz group wins National honour
Year 12 student Harshitha Peddireddy represented the Rockhampton Fitzroy River Lions Club at the National Final of the Lions Youth of the Year public speaking competition. Harshitha joined some of the best young public speakers from around Australia. Harshitha ealier won the Queensland final after being interviewed about her knolwedge of local, national and international affairs, along with leadership and community involvement. Harshitha also presented two impromptu speeches along with a prepared speech.
Year 12 student Millicent Rayner (pictured) placed second in the State in the annual UQ/QAMT Problem Solving Competition. This followed RGS success in the regional Maths Team Challenge competition with Year 5, Year 6, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12 teams winning their divisions and the Year 7 team placing second in their division. RGS Year 11 student Oliver Dunn won the Rex Boggs Medal in the individual shootout competition.
Congratulations to the RGS Small Jazz Ensemble on placing first in their division at Generations in Jazz – a national jazz competition. Three students were also selected in the “super band”. Congratulations to Alain Li (Alto Saxophone), Millicent Rayner (Trumpet 1) and Ben Reid (Trumpet 2). Generations in Jazz is a National Jazz Band competition held throughout Australia each year that involves 5500 students performing across different sections and divisions.
LEADERSHIP
“ Without everyone working together you can’t achieve things for the students in your care.”
Dr Moulds said a career in education allowed him to help make a difference in students lives and contribute not only to that student but to the broader community. “As a father (of two children, Lachlan and Claire), you really care about your kids and how they grow up, and you worry about their future. To be entrusted with that with thousands of students over the many years is one of the most important jobs you could ever do,’’ Dr Moulds said. Moving forward from receiving this honour, Dr Moulds “absolutely” has more to achieve moving forward. “You can always be better,’’ Dr Moulds said. “At schools, as teachers, you always want to leave wherever you are in a better place and that you’ve been a part of that. “That’s still a journey for me.
Award recognises passion for education RGS Headmaster Dr Phillip Moulds OAM was recognised on the Queen’s Birthday 2022 Honours List. Dr Moulds was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to secondary education. Dr Moulds has been Headmaster at RGS since 2010, after previously working at Brisbane Grammar School for 18 years.
Receiving an OAM award is a “humbling experience” for RGS Headmaster Dr Phillip Moulds. Dr Moulds said the award was a reflection of the work he had been able to do with a lot of wonderful people over a long period of time. “I see it as recognition of the school communities I’ve been a part of and the organisations I’ve been able to serve. I thank all the people who have supported me along the way. Without everyone working together you can’t achieve things for the students in your care,’’ Dr Moulds said.
“I have a particular passion for regional and rural education. I would like to make a difference in ensuring high quality education is available throughout the state and nation, irrespective of where any child goes to school.” Dr Moulds said one of the most rewarding asepcts of his job was working with great staff and students, and in partnership with engaged parents who all want to see the children do extraordinary things. “Whether that’s on the sports field, classroom or in a music programme, community service or in the development of relationships,’’ Dr Moulds said. Dr Moulds has dedicated his career to education. At a tertiary level, Dr Moulds earned his PhD in Education from the University of Queensland and also posseses a Bachelor of Education Studies with First Class Honours, Postgraduate Diploma of Education, Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Music – all from the University of Queensland. During his 18 years at Brisbane Grammar School, Dr Moulds’ positions included Deputy Headmaster, Deputy Head of Boarding, Head of Science and Head of Chemistry. Dr Moulds is also a member on the ISQ (Independent Schools Queensland) board.
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COMMUNITY
Finding time to help others RGS students are finding the balance between having fun while at the same time giving their time to help a variety of special organisations. Whether it’s preparing baked treats, cooking a BBQ, shaving their hair, doing a push up or hosting an afternoon tea – the results all contribute to positive outcomes. Everyone is always busy. Sometimes you just need to pause for a moment to think about others in this world. RGS students are regularly caught up in a whirlwind of activities during the term. That can include working on assessment to sports training or musical rehearsals. Amidst the chaos, students are also recognising that there are others who need some extra support. This term, students raised funds for the Cancer Council by hosting an Afternoon Tea and the School’s First XIII rugby league team continued their annual tradition of shaving their heads before the Confraternity Carnival. Next term students will also chop their hair for the Pony Tail Project. Year 11 students Blair Sypher, Holly Thomas and Hollie Acton test their cooking skills in Relay for Life fundraising.
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The RGS Rowing team clocked up the kilometres on the ergo machines in a fundraising campaign for skin cancer
CREATING CONFIDENT SMILES
FOR PATIENTS OF ALL AGES
awareness, called ‘School Strokes for Skin Cancer’. This new initiative was launched as part of “Million Meters for Melanoma”. Last year, 367 school-aged children were diagnosed with melanoma. Staff and students also tested their push up ability, participating in June’s mental health Push Up Challenge. The students decided to raise their funds for Lifeline, a 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention service. Year 11 boarders also continued a long tradition of supporting the Cancer Council’s Relay for Life. The Grammar Groovers will continue fundraising through to early Term 3. Collectively, there is a lot of people at RGS doing their small part to make a different in the lives of others, whether that be the person needing help or their family support network.
COMMUNITY
Entertainers take centre stage RGS students from Prep to Year 12 dazzled in the 2022 RGS Music Festival at the Pilbeam Theatre on 11 June. While some young students were taking to the stage for the first time, for two performers took their final bow at a Music Festival after having made their debuts in Prep. Year 12 students Millicient Rayner and George Plumb (pictured below) both performed with the Prep Signing Choir in 2010. They have since entertained audiences for the past 13 years. “I remember as a little kid I was very keen for the opportunity to perform in front of my family,” George said. “Over my 13 years of performing at the Festival I’ve been involved in a range of amazing performances, some of my favourites being Flintstones with Small Jazz Ensemble and Zootopia in the Year 4 – 6 Signing Choir.
RGS athlete sprints to gold RGS Year 12 student Jett Grundy is a quiet achiever making his name known in national athletics circles. Jett, 17, won a 400m gold medal in the Oceania Athletics Championships in Mackay last term. In his first international competition, Jett clocked a personal best time of 48.34 seconds to win the event. This followed a fourth place at nationals in the 400m. The Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games are in Jett’s sights. “I’ve competed in athletics at a school level since Prep and began taking it seriously in Year 9 when I joined the Keppel Coast Athletics Club and started training on a regular basis,’’ Jett said. Jett’s passion for athletics started with cross country events before shifting to shorter distances of 100m, 200m and the 400m.
“I want to continue my athletics after school, where I am aiming to make the U20 World juniors in a few years, and maybe even the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane. I am hoping to study at UQ next year and find a diverse range of opportunities, not only focusing on running.”
“ I want to continue my athletics after school, where I am aiming to make the U20 World juniors in a few years, and maybe even the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane.”
“Small jazz ensemble has always been a group filled with great levels of excitement, especially when the other band members perform some incredible solos, and signing choir was always a blast with Mr Robertson always striving to teach us a lot. “I have always enjoyed performing in the Festival, having the opportunity I have to perform in front of a large crowd and the enjoyment I experience from putting a smile on people’s faces.” Millicent has particularly enjoyed performing when they combine different groups. “At this year’s Festival, the strings joined Small Jazz to perform Smooth Operator and the choir to perform Lullaby of Broadway. It is great that everyone can get together and put together a big performance like that,’’ Millicent said.
“I enjoy the feeling of running fast rather then the slow pace of the longer distances. While the 400m is my main event, I still prefer the 100m and 200m. The 400m is such an agonising race where you have to push your body to its physical and mental limits, which is why I do not enjoy it as nearly as much as the shorter distances,’’ Jett said.
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PAST STUDENTS
ALUMNI NEWS
Past students remain connected to the School, whether that is remembering their valued contribution, providing opportunities to grow in their chosen profession, or reuniting old school friends and meeting other past students from another era.
Remembering Robert South
Past students return to school
Past Student News
The Rockhampton Grammar School lost a long-time supporter of the School when Robert South passed away on 10 June, 2022. Robert South was a past student of the School (1947 – 1948), a past parent at RGS (his son Michael was School Captain in 1975) and was a longserving RGS Board of Trustees member from 1971 – 1993). Robert was also a leader in the Central Queensland legal community.
RGS 2021 graduates Kourtney Draper, Lily Cottam, Roni Peff and Peyton Cordell caught up with RGS Primary PE teacher, and RGS past student, Victoria McInnerney (nee Watson, RGS 1998) at RGS during Term 2. Kourtney, Lily, Roni and Peyton are all studying Education at CQUniversity and were testing their PE teaching skills working with RGS Year 1 PE classes.
The School is hosting an RGS All Years Reunion on 24 September. The day starts with a School Tour followed by drinks, nibbles and entertainment at the RGS Rowing Club. A great opportunity for school friends to reunite. Email paststudents@rgs.qld.edu. au for more information.
Robert South: 29 June 1933 – 10 June 2022
JCU Virtual Open Day
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Tuesday 13 September 2022 4.00 PM - 7.00 PM Explore JCU’s campuses, facilities and courses from the comfort of your own home. Our Virtual Open Day is a customised virtual event, where you can access and download course information, attend presentations, live chat with academic staff, network with current students and explore our virtual campus.
jcu.edu.au/openday
The RGS Past Student Association’s AGM was held on 15 June. Elected committee members were:
President – Thomas Birkbeck (2009); Vice-President – Robert South Jnr (2009); Secretary – Annie Belonogoff (2009); Treasurer – Nick Johnson (2015); Committee Members – Adrien Lang (1993), Mark Birkbeck (1982) and Rachel Trump (1995).
PAST STUDENTS
Q&A FRASER ORFORD (RGS 2007) Fraser Orford has a passion for the arts, and his energetic personality continues to tap into new opportunities. The stage has provided many platforms for Fraser to shine, from being a company manager to being a curator with TEDxSydney. A new chapter now awaits Fraser as he prepares to move to London later this year.
“ ...once I did the RGS production of Singin’ in the Rain in 2003, that was it, I was sold.”
CQ: How did you enter the Arts industry? FO: “After school I moved to Brisbane to undertake a Bachelor Degree in town planning at UQ, before heading to Sydney to study at NIDA – No I Don’t Act. My studies were in the area of production with hopes of moving into management and producing.” CQ: What initially sparked your interest in moving into this career? FO: “Perhaps an early found love of the arts, in all its forms, but a particular interest in theatre and musical theatre. What sparked that? Probably the Rogers & Hammerstein and MGM movie musicals, but once I did the RGS production of Singin’ in the Rain in 2003, that was it. I was sold. Beyond those formative experiences, an understanding of professional productions to be commercial enterprises was perhaps the final piece to that puzzle.” CQ: What do you enjoy most about working in this industry? FO: “The collaborative nature of people that the industry attracts. There’s a great John Steinbeck quote where he says “The theatre is the only institution in the world which has been dying for four thousand years and has never succumbed. It requires tough and devoted people to keep it alive.” And it’s true, never more so than right now.” CQ: What are some of the most exciting productions you have been involved with? FO: “I’ve been fortunate to work on a number of large-scale events and productions. Career highlights include the International Tour of Disney’s The Lion King as well as my current role on An American in Paris. We rehearsed
and opened Disney’s The Lion King in the Philippines before taking the show throughout South East Asia to Singapore and South Korea. With An American in Paris we are lucky enough to be joined by principal dancers of The Australian Ballet. It’s more special as it’s one of the first commercial productions to go into rehearsal and open as the live performance sector awoke after the pandemic.“ CQ: What are some of the biggest challenges that the industry is now facing? FO: “The entertainment industry is dealing with the fallout of the hiatus caused by the pandemic. Namely, the huge gap left in the skilled workforce by those who sought other work and career-changes as they weren’t supported during the pandemic. Our industry is one of the biggest contributors to the gig-economy which unfortunately went largely unsupported and unfortunately our industry is now paying the price. Prior to the pandemic the arts and entertainment sector employed 193,600 and contributed $14.7 billion per year to the national economy.” CQ: When you’re not backstage you also enjoy public speaking? FO: “As a child I was sent to speech and drama classes pretty early to help combat my rhotacism – a challenge for anyone with a couple of r’s in their own name! Oratory and debating became staples in my high school experience and I’ve never met a microphone I didn’t like. It’s been my work curating and coaching TED Talks that has been a true synthesis of these skills and passions. The key is knowing and understanding your audience, and remembering to breathe.”
THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY / 7
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LEADERSHIP
Abenaya “The course provides key foundation skills which are essential to a range of occupations and volunteering roles around the community. This course also aids in students finding roles in which they are passionate about. We complete a range of assessments including written assessments, case studies and volunteer placement.
“ There are so many things you can learn from volunteering around the community”
What does volunteering mean to me? RGS Year 10 students have the opportunity to help in the broader community through their Certificate II in Active Volunteering service, from cooking a sausage sizzle to helping at an air show. Year 10 students Samridhi Lamichhane and Abenaya Suntharavadivel shared their experiences. Samridhi “This Certificate creates the perfect balance between practical and theory. We have had various volunteering opportunities, both within the School and local community, that allows us to give back to society. Community activities such as the Rockhampton Parkrun, Rockhampton River Run, Salvation Army Sausage Sizzle, Rockhampton Dance Festival, Raglan Fly-In and Heritage Show are just few of the opportunities students have experienced. In the theoretical aspect, there are a variety of units that focus on a characteristic of being an effective volunteer. With seven units, the course focuses on being the best volunteer possible and assessment tasks are integrated to test and consolidate this knowledge. At the end of the Certificate course, Year 10s will be awarded with four additional QCE points to set us off on the right foot in our Senior school journey. Volunteering to me is a chance to give back to my community and be more involved. When I volunteer, I don’t see myself as wasting time to do work for free, it allows me to give my
time and abilities to aid others. By being able to support smaller organisations that require volunteers to accomplish day-to-day tasks allows me to help them achieve goals and give more to service the community.
We are required to complete at least 20 hours of volunteer work within the community. Volunteering can be done within the school community or in an external organisation, such as directly working for a charity, helping out at a community event, or setting up for an RGS event. Some roles at RGS have included assisting in the building of props for RGS Musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I strongly believe volunteering is an essential life skill that everyone should partake in at least once in their life. There are so many things you can learn from volunteering around the community, and it can be very enjoyable as well. It is an opportunity to meet people with similar interests as you, and a great way to make new friends. Completing a volunteer role has personally made me feel like I have accomplished something, and helped the people around me.”
Volunteering has given me a sense of satisfaction, that I am doing good for others and the community, providing a feeling of accomplishment. Being more involved in the social presence of the community allows me to interact and have more experiences. Volunteering is about looking beyond the factor of monetary repayment, by being able to give my abilities to help others, and just by giving my time, knowing the impact that I am having gives me a great feeling of pride and identity. Through volunteering I have met incredible people that give up so much of their time for the betterment of others and it is truly inspiring to see their positive attitudes towards making the world a better place for everyone. This motivates me to continue doing more for my community with the knowledge that my small actions benefit more than myself. The idea of touching other peoples lives is incredibly empowering and uplifting.” THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY / 9
COMMUNITY
Ready to roar! Show stopping creations When a RGS IT Department staff member, and past student, Matt Davis combines with seasoned RGS Primary Musical director Michael Robertson the results are set to look amazing. Tickets are now on sale for The Lion King Jnr which hits the Pilbeam Theatre stage on 2 – 3 September. It’s a show with a difference this year. Joining the amazing young cast will be a creative set of masks and puppets.
There is more to Matt Davis than fixing everyone’s computer issues. In his downtime he also has an artistic streak which has involved creating puppets and masks for this year’s musical. “Creativity is creativity, it doesn’t matter if your art is with a computer or with a backhoe,’’ Matt said. “The ability to take an idea and make it real is a skill that transcends any medium. So, while I tinker away with the computers in my day job, I spend my downtime (hobby) playing with paintbrushes and canvasses. I believe anyone can be ‘artistic’ or ‘creative’ – I certainly wasn’t any good before I started, and I’m only getting better for every hour I spend doing it.” Matt volunteered with RGS musicals when his daughter performed in Mary Poppins Jnr. “I volunteered to help out in whatever way I could. It’s sometimes a hard job, but it needs to be done to make the magic happen. I have skills
that will help The Lion King come together on stage, and it makes sense for me to offer them to the team.” Matt never thought he would make a puppet but he enjoys bringing the magic to life. “The Lion King masks and puppets are creatively very interesting, because they draw from many mediums – Zazu is part 3D printed, part woodwork, sewed, painted, and also articulated with moving parts. Each of those skills I had to learn, or refine, to build him.” Matt makes sure he finds the time to work on the creative projects. “To do these kinds of creative projects I have to carve time out of the ‘TV relaxation’ time I have. A couple of hours here and there all add up over the course of a few weeks. “The hardest part is getting to the end of the day, knowing you’re just on the edge of a breakthrough and having to put down tools to
10 / THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY
cook dinner. You learn to really maximise the time you have – so much of the complex work is planning. For instance, when I’m painting Simba’s and Scar’s masks, I need to consider the colours and order of application. Simba needs to be young, bright, and ‘good’ coloured, whereas Scar needs to be more mature, darker, and angular, how they are painted needs to reflect that.” Matt is “super excited” to see these creations on stage and even more keen to hear how the audience reacts. “This won’t be a show to miss,’’ Matt said. The Lion King Jnr Director, and Primary teacher, Michael Robertson is also testing new waters in his 12th RGS Primary Musical production with every character an African animal. “The show has required a complete build from scratch and for the first time has involved masks and puppets as part of the costuming,’’ Mr Robertson said.
COMMUNITY
ROBERT BRINGS ZAZU TO LIFE! RGS Year 5 student Robert Muller is “super excited” to be making his RGS Primary Musical debut in September. Not only does Robert have to learn his lines and work on his singing and acting skills, he also has to become a master puppeteer as he brings Zazu to life. “Zazu is a hornbill bird, a type of bird with a big beak. Zazu is Mufasa’s assistant and in the front of the musical rehearsal book it says “loyal yet fretful”,’’ Robert said. “I really like this character because I always just found him funny. He also gets to say some cheeky lines.
“I have to coordinate the puppet’s mouth and wing movements. It’s not too hard. You just have to remember to pull the front trigger when you’re talking and just remember to flap his wings when he’s walking. It’s pretty tricking especially when you’re walking and talking because you can’t do it at the same time otherwise it looks fake. “I’m going pretty well. I’ve gotten better from the first day. On the first day with the puppet I was pretty bad and twirling it around too much. “I’m very excited. I’m just looking forward to the two days when we perform. I love all the rehearsals and love how everyone, all your friends, come together to form one musical.”
“I also get this incredible puppet, built amazingly by Mr Davis, and I still sort of technically have a costume, or more of an outfit. All the focus is on the puppet which makes it different.
RGS IT staff member Matt Davis is putting his creative skills to work in a different setting.
“We have based our ideas and inspiration around the Broadway show which sees students not just dressing up in animal costumes but the students becoming the African animal as well as retaining some of their human features. The show is famous for its costumes and use of puppetry and masks which we are excited to say, we are doing this as well for these young performers.”
“ The ability to take an idea and make it real is a skill that transcends any medium.” Mr Robertson said the students had training in how to use the masks and puppetry in the show, but it has been very challenging for the students to think in every rehearsal how to incorporate extra limbs and faces (masks) into their acting. “Some characters have extended limbs, longer necks and heads that tower over the rest of the
cast and some have the use of masks either on their face, on the crown of their head or on their chest. And then we have characters like Zazu, who are a separate hand puppet entirely!’’ Mr Robertson said. “It has been funny at times watching the students walk around the stage with sticks that will eventually become part of their animal’s body. The students have had to workshop how their character moves but also at the same time, keep their human characteristics and personality to add to the animal’s character.” Mr Robertson said The Lion King Jnr has wonderful characters, amazing music and it is incredibly different and creative. “Our primary students have always risen to the challenge of our musicals and the standard they create is simply mind-boggling!,’’ Mr Robertson said. “I am very proud of every student in every musical that we have done at the School. What we achieve together is simply magical!”
Mr Robertson praised the “amazing talent” in his production team. “As usual, I have the wonderful support and talents of Elisa Williams (Vocal Director) and Jason Rooks (Assistant Director) and this year past-student Peyton Cordell has come on board as choreographer. We have the wonderfully creative Helen and Ross James who are heading up our costume and set design team, which consists also of Matt Davis who is creating many of the amazing puppets and masks that you will see on stage. We also have other talented staff and students like Catherine Hancock, Marika Rumford and Lani Dunn also coming on board to help the magic come to life.” Mr Robertson said this was complimented by parent and staff volunteers. “The audience can expect a visual musical spectacular with memorable characters, songs and colourful scenes. I can’t give too much away at present but it is going to be huge!”
THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY / 11
COMMUNITY
“ Always bear in mind that public speaking is about finding one’s voice and allowing it to be heard!”
How to speak publicly with confidence Tag something as “public speaking” and it can instill fear in the best of us. Public speaking does not always mean taking centre stage before a class or audience, it can also be having a voice in your sports team or within your group of friends. RGS Head of English (Year 7 – 10) Ms Louise Heilbuth uncovers how we can speak publicly with clarity, confidence and conviction.
You break into a cold sweat, your hands are clammy, but your mouth is dry. Your heart rate has increased, you feel nauseous and dizzy at the same time. Your body shakes! Chances are that you are about to give a presentation to a group of peers, you have been asked to submit a podcast or vlog or you’ve been asked a question on a platform like Teams or Zoom.
Ms Louise Heilbuth
It is common knowledge that at least 75% of the Australian population fear public speaking – there is even a term for the extreme fear of public speaking – glossophobia! Public speaking, though, can be a powerful platform for you to lend your voice to pertinent issues, opinions and debate. At RGS, opportunities for public speaking abound. Across the curriculum, our young people have the freedom to express themselves in the form of class presentations, podcasts, vlogs, and online meetings. Most of the extensive competitions offered, have an element of speaking in front of others, whether it be managing a mathematical question or competing in Voice of Youth, the annual oratory competition
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RGS students have many opportunities to further discover and improve their public speaking skills.
held in June. The School also has a strong debating programme that encourages all students to attend meetings and try out public speaking in a safe and caring environment. So, why do so many of us fear public speaking? It is in fact the fear of situations in which we may: make a mistake, be judged by others or lack confidence. These fears can all be overcome, and effective public speaking is a learnable skill. Some of the ways in which public speaking can be improved is to think about breathing correctly – strange as that may sound. In the subject, Drama, at RGS, students learn how to overcome ‘nervous’ breathing by practicing something called intercostal diaphragmatic breathing. This kind of breathing allows speakers to control the way they breathe in order to combat nerves as well as project their voice effectively. This is a very handy skill to develop as speakers can then speak with confidence and clarity. Know your stuff – this is an important aspect of public speaking. A well-researched, well written speech that connects with your audience will ensure greater audience engagement and should put you at ease. Know your audience – play to what your audience hopes to benefit from your speech. Finally, another way to enhance public speaking is of course to rehearse. This is certainly encouraged, and some students rehearse so effectively that they are able to memorise their presentations! A well-rehearsed presentation allows for greater eye contact with the audience and an emphasis then, on how the voice sounds and which gestures to use. Always bear in mind that public speaking is about finding one’s voice and allowing it to be heard.
STUDENTS, CURRENT AND PAST, FIND THEIR VOICES Aniq Malik Pannila (Year 11 student) “ I like public speaking because I want to gain some life skills.”
Harshitha Peddireddy (Year 12 student, Lions Youth of the Year State Winner, 2022) “ Public Speaking helped me find my voice and become more confident in social situations. I started public speaking when I was quite young, so the skill really made a difference in my life.” Sithmi Konara (RGS 2021 graduate, Public Speaking Captain in 2021) “ Growing up in Sri Lanka, I was constantly reminded of the sanctity of free speech as I saw the voices of minorities being so openly oppressed. It fuelled me to use my own for the better and share our collective stories. Sithmi suggests that public speaking is a tool of empowerment, saying that if you can speak effectively, you can build connections that will last a lifetime. “ I think one of the main and most important things that public speaking teaches you is to advocate for yourself. It ingrains the idea in your head that you don’t have to settle for less. “ It also teaches you how to advocate for others. Engaging in public speaking shows you how to consider multiple perspectives and recognise the nuances of any problem so that you can attack it from a balanced and respectful standpoint.”
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COMMUNITY
Finding your tribe: Sharing the journey RGS Head of Primary Mrs Kate Harris was guest speaker at this year’s RGS Parent Association Mother’s Day High Tea. Kate and her husband Roger are parents to three grown children who have now finished school Mrs Harris spoke of her “tribe” – her support network to help her through parenting’s good and tough times. Finding your tribe (your support network) can help you both through life’s happiest and toughest times. “Mothers celebrate each other’s wins, and we carry each other when needed,’’ Mrs Harris said.
Mrs Kate Harris Head of Primary
The High Tea celebrated mothers from around the world, with many mothers in the RGS community coming from various cultures. The message from Mrs Harris was the same for mothers all round the world. “I looked for ways to link with all our diverse cultures, religions, country of origins and find a common word that connects us all. There is no better word than ‘love’,’’ Mrs Harris said. Mrs Harris delved into the images of mother’s and their children in war-torn Ukraine and the support of other mothers in nearby countries.
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“As a mother of three children myself I can’t imagine the fear of leaving your country terrified with three little young children unable to return home,’’ Mrs Harris said. “The strength that a mother will go to protect her babies is phenomenal.” Mrs Harris said these images captured “doing what mother’s do best, we unite in action.” “This journey of raising young people to be contributing and good humans is the most rewarding work I have every done, but it’s also the hardest,’’ Mrs Harris said. “I’ve relied on humour and the incredible friendships of other mothers to simply lighten my load. To see each other’s needs and help one another. So, this tribe of women who also know the anomaly of the love you feel for your children helps in so many ways. Understanding without judgement that you can feel in equal measure incredible frustration and despair while also loving so strongly it hurts.”
COMMUNITY
(clockwise from top lef) Primary mum Cara Pincombe; past student Isabella Hanson and her mum Vicki Hanson; past RGS mum Sheree Matsen, Rachael Austin and Rachael’s mum Margaret Weisse.
Mrs Harris reflected on her “tribe”, whether that be through school, community or sporting groups.
“Of course, they were young men determined to see the world. I had been preparing them for this world the best I possibly could, and I wanted them to see this world. But it was with fear.
The “tribe” starts when children are young and continues as they move into their teenage years.
“I was glad when they convinced friends to go with them as once again mother’s united to farewell our boys with as many instructions as we could deliver. We so wanted them to see the world.”
“Having the circle that looks out for each other’s children to unite over the big issues of parties, rules and curfews and holding that line together as mother’s has been a God send,’’ Mrs Harris said.
“ I looked for ways to link with all our diverse cultures, religions, country of origins and find a common word that connects us all. There is no better word than ‘love’’’ It was during their teenage years that Mrs Harris’ sons decided they wanted to spread their wings and experience a gap year in England. Her eldest in 2016 and second eldest in 2019. Mrs Harris’ daughter had to end her travel plans due to COVID-19. “They were just 18 years of age. I fretted and worried about whether they were ready to take this step without me,’’ Mrs Harris said.
Mrs Harris watched from afar as Europe was riddled with terrorist attacks. Her son was a step ahead of a bombing in Belgium. “That was far to close for me being 15,000km away. It was a year of me madly searching every European safe travel zone,’’ Mrs Harris said.
Stana Dillon “I just want raise my son with the same values and morals that I was brought up with. I must be doing ok, as he still likes to hang out with me and tells me that he loves me and texts good night.”
Karin Guth “It means the world to me being a mum to Mollie. I just love brining up a beautiful little human being and just watching them grow and develop. I love the relationship I can witness between my daughter and my grandmother who is 101. It’s just so beautiful to see that relationship evolve.”
“Every day I worried, every few days he checked in. He learnt new cultures, saw places that he never would have imagined seeing, he saw the best and worst of his friends, he problem solved himself out of tricky situations and he received an education that no classroom could ever give him.” Her son’s friends were caught up in a terrorist attack in Nice, France. Parents back home were frantic. The “tribe” united. Thankfully uninjured, yet traumatised, they returned home sharing stories of complete strangers, mothers, helping them through the trauma. “Motherhood is a marathon, not a sprint. “The more people helping and supporting our children as they transition into adulthood the better. “Community, sporting groups, families, schools, working together and looking out for each other. Looking out for every child creates a thriving environment for these precious children we still call our babies. I am forever grateful for my tribe of other friends. Celebrate the joys and the lows of this incredible journey that we are very privileged to share,’’ Mrs Harris said.
Bianca Anderson “When I became a mum I thought I’d given my mum the greatest gift of giving her a grandchild. I feel complete. I don’t think it’s the be-all and end-all if people don’t have children, but I feel like I always have a best friend. I think being a mum is a privilege.”
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CO-CURRICULAR
RGS students dig deep in title deciders
Alenna takes league challenge to next level
Netball grand finals
RGS Year 12 student Alenna Whipp continues to push her selection claims on the rugby league stage.
RGS had seven teams feature in the Rockhampton District Sport Netball grand finals this term. Meteors and Sparks won their finals with Magic, Celtics, Bullets, Thunder and Storm finishing runners-up.
Alenna was selected in the Queensland Under-19 Sapphires team that placed fourth at the National Championships on the Gold Coast during Term 2.
RGS players of the final were: Molly Cottam (Meteors), Alice Besch (Sparks), Lily Gray (Magic), Annabelle Shannon (Celtics), Hollie Acton (Bullets), Brooke Hutson (Thunder) and Molly Kidd (Storm).
The Central Queensland Capras Under-19 player was also a key team member in helping the RGS Open Schoolgirls team progress to the next round of the Karyn Murphy Cup statewide competition.
RGS netball teams continue playing in the Rockhampton Netball Association competition during Term 3.
Alenna is now preparing for upcoming representative rugby union duties.
Cricket The annual RGS Cricket Dinner was held in the Spaceframe during Term 2 with students from Year 3 to Year 12 recognised in the RGS Team of the Year. This 2021/2022 season team of the year was: (front row, from left) Oliver Bennett, Eddy Atkinson, Lila Atkinson, Richard Pershouse, Riley McDonald, Archie Clifford; (back row) Abbey Harvey, Jack Simmonds, Henry Dingle, Ben Van Bael, Rory Connor, Henry Lau. Major award winners were: Club Player of the Year: Rory Connor Female Cricketer of the Year: Abbey Harvey Middle School Player of the Year: Riley McDonald Senior School Player of the Year: Henry Dingle Crozier Family Trophy: Henry Dingle
AROUND THE GROUNDS Rugby League
Football
Tennis
The RGS Open Girls rugby league team qualified for the next round of the Karryn Murphy Cup. Team member Alenna Whipp also represented Queensland at the National U19 Women’s Rugby League Championships in Term 2.
RGS football teams qualified for the finals in all three divisions – Year 7/8, Year 9/10, and Year 11/12. All three teams went down in their season deciders, including the Year 11/12’s team loss in a penalty shoot out. Players of the finals were: (Year 7/8) Miguel Sithole; (Year 9/10) Oliver Bennett and (Year 11/12) Zavier Cooper.
The RGS girls tennis team played in the Queensland Secondary Schools Teams Championships in Rockhampton, placing second in the Country Cup division. Team members were Lacey Robertson, Eliza Acton, Hollie Acton, Eden Hetherington, Kaytlin Childs and Hollie Acton. Summer Robertson was unavailable due to injury.
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CO-CURRICULAR
Athletics Age Champions PRIMARY 6 Years Girls
Mahalia Van Der Loos
6 Years Boys
Thomas O’Sullivan
7 Years Girls
Nicole Sproule
7 Years Boys
Owen Peacocke
8 Years Girls
Indiana Winslade
8 Years Boys
Henry Houghton
9 Years Girls
Aria Caton
9 Years Boys
Oliver Lau
10 Years Girls
Grace Evans
10 Years Boys
Lennox Austin
11 Years Girls
Hollie Richmond
11 Years Boys
Lachlan Robertson
12 Years Girls
Eden Fraser
12 Years Boys
Hatcher Cook
Champion House
Wheatcroft
SECONDARY 12 Years Girls
Neve Gassman
12 Years Boys
Harley Aitchison
13 Years Girls
Sophie Wright
13 Years Boys
Ralph Labor
14 Years Girls
Katie Cooper
14 Years Boys
Henry Lau
15 Years Girls
Asha Stewart
15 Years Boys
Connor Munro
16 Years Girls
Emily Kelly
16 Years Boys
Kaelen Etherden
Open Years Girls
Megan Adamski
Open Years Boys
Jett Grundy
Champion House
Kellow
Rowing RGS rowers are back on the Fitzroy River preparing for upcoming championships after a busy start to the 2022 season. Earlier in the year RGS rowers competed at the Queensland Club Rowing Championships winning 2 gold, 2 silver and a bronze medal combined with further strong showings in finals. This was followed by the National Championships, held at Lake Nagambie in Victoria. The RGS U17 girls crew of Caroline Sparks, Georgia Brennan, Asha Stewart, Greta McCosker and Austin Alloway (cox) placed fourth in their final, narrowly missing a bronze medal. The crew of Jed Napper, Karl Stanke, Fletcher Hewitt, Josh Sparks and Jess Cook (cox) placed fourth in their schoolboys sprint. All RGS rowers, from Year 7 to Year 12, are now back in training as they continue competing in regattas.
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GALLERY
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Year 8 students prepare for sailing on Form Camp; Year 7 student Lily Thomasson explores the world of Science; Year 12 student William Ford joins the Cadets at the Rockhampton ANZAC Day parade; Year 11 student Clem Boston turns his hand to AFL coaching while sidelined with injury; Year 6 netballers Madeline Lloyd, Evelyn Lloyd and Matilda Kitchen; Year 5 students enjoy the stunning water off Konomie Island; Year 10 students Sam Hooper and Joe Morrison volunteer their service at the Mother’s Day High Tea; Year 12 student Benedict Wright entertains AHISA guests on a school tour; Year 12 student Reegan Hill works on the RGS girls boarding renovations during this school apprenticeship.
GALLERY
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Year 1 student Emmerson Kuhl bravely holds a spiny leaf insects; Year 3 students Tyler Hancock and Sloane Bridges join Primary School students at the Rockhampton ANZAC Day parade; Year 9 students leap out of their comfort zone during their What About Me programme camp at Ritamada; Year 10 students Riley Sullivan, Caden Kent and Ben Van Bael help at the Great Keppel Island Beach clean up; Year 2 student Sean Robertson adds some touches to his artwork; the RGS Primary School Cam Munster Cup rugby league
team at Rugby Park; the signing choir entertains students and guests at the Primary Formal Assembly; wearing their favourite crazy socks are Year 12 students are Mackenzie Wright, Faith Maynard, George Plumb, Mary Esplin, Jacqueline Sleaford, Dominique Sleaford, Ella Milfull and Darby Cringle; Year 11 student Harry Ludwick-Bowen contributes to the RGS Indigenous art project; Year 9 student Katie Warmington at the Rockhampton Show; Year 10’s Charlie King stepped up to take a lead role in Wheatley’s winning performance at Dance Fest.
Q&A
The final word James Waterton is a descendant of the Gangalu and Iman People. Growing up in Rockhampton, Mt Morgan and Woorabinda, James started painting when he was a little boy. During Term 2, James has been sharing his art passion with RGS students.
James Waterton ARTIST
During Term 2, RGS students and staff collaborated to create an artwork that represented many aspects, including the students’ cultures, the School and the traditional people of Rockhampton. Every Wednesday during Form and Morning Tea the students would meet at the RGS Art Rooms. The concept started with sharing ideas for their story before paint even touched the canvas. The piece of art morphed into a growing story as the weeks went on. Guided by RGS staff Ms Rosie Akers and Mr David Faiumu, the students have shared their story not through words but a picture to be displayed in the School’s Islay Lee Learning Centre. Guiding them throughout the process was local Indigenous artist James Waterton who creates modern traditional art. James is also a youth worker at Darumbal. How did you get involved in art? “I’ve always been involved in artwork. My dad (an Elder of the Iman People) is an artist. He taught me the meaning of artwork and what to use, what tools and everything around culture. I was also taught be about the history of Aboriginal art.”
Why do you enjoy creating art? “It started off with me just being interested in what my dad did but ended up being a therapy for me. In my spare time, when I’m stressed or having a hard time, this is what I fall on.” What’s the starting point for each artwork? “First I try to get to know the young people and see if they can tell their own story through art. I get a picture of what we have to work with. It’s about just connecting them back to their own lands and their people and finding out about their totems and different styles of painting they can use.”
“ This artwork – it’s around all the kids and the different cultures in the school, different tribes coming together.” Each artwork tells a different story? “All of my art tells a story. I put it down on a piece of paper first before I put it on canvas. This artwork – it’s around all the kids and the different cultures in the school, different tribes coming together. This painting means connecting them to the school and connecting them to each other and connecting them to the country they are on, the Darumbal people.” What do you hope the RGS students gain from this collaborative experience? “I hope it connects them to their culture more, and brings more of an understanding who aboriginal people are and what they are all about. Even with the non-indigenous kids seeing a painting the kids have done it might give them further insight and understanding.”
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