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RGS PAST STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION SUMMER EDITION 2021
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From the President A new year brings new opportunities for the RGS Past Students’ Association. The challenges that we experienced as an Association and the School in 2020 were not unique to us but the way we have addressed them is unique to the Grammarian spirit. COVID-19 forced us to postpone many events the past students community looks forward to, namely the RGS Distinguished Past Students Awards and reunions. We still continued to work on other projects. We are continuing plans to launch a rebrand of the Association under a new name and logo – RGS Alumni. This rebrand will acknowledge and respect the history of the Past Students’ Association as we move to a contemporary and concise value offering to the School community. With the proposed rebrand, we aim to further facilitate the interaction of shared interests and achievements amongst graduates, while focusing on the future. We are also establishing a series of quarterly catch-up event, further facilitating connections
between past students of all years. The ongoing archiving and scanning of photographs significant to the history of the School and its students have been an ongoing task. We are committed to ensuring the treasure trove of memories are properly archived for future generations to enjoy. The Past Students’ Association will also have an active role in assisting the School in the identification of capital projects to benefit the broader School community and students of all ages. 2021 is a new year with many great opportunities. We look forward to seeing you at our events!
Tom Birkbeck President (RGS 2009)
In 2021, The Rockhampton Grammar School celebrates 140 years of education and 50 years since the stunning Emu Park beachfront property Ritamada was gifted to the School. In 2021, we are also hopeful to again reunite RGS past students at various functions after a very different looking 2020. Below are some events to save to your calendar. We will keep you updated on the RGS Past Students’ Association Facebook page with further updates. RGS Past Student Networking Drinks @ from 6pm Cocobrew, Rockhampton 11 March 20 May 19 August 9 December RGS All Years Function @ Transcontinental Hotel, Brisbane Saturday, 22 May For further details, contact Lance Currie (RGS 1959) at lfcurrie@yahoo.com or Steve Brown (RGS 1979) at stevenbrown_is@live.com.au
RGS 140/Ritamada 50 Year Celebration @ Ritamada, Emu Park Saturday, 19 June For further details, contact Rachael McDonald at RGS on rmcdonald@rgs.qld.edu.au
RGS Distinguished Past Student Dinner @ RGS, Rockhampton Saturday, 24 July For further details, contact Rachael McDonald at RGS on rmcdonald@rgs.qld.edu.au
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Getting the band back together In 1967 a group of Rockhampton Grammar School friends formed the band “Created Soul”. Fast forward a few years Lindsay Palmes, Robert Lang, Doug Yuille and Jim Randell still enjoy belting out a tune. The 1967 photo was taken at RGS (before the days of Palmer and Woolcock buildings) when the view was quite different to today’s landscape. In 2020 the old school mates reunited in a similar location. Here is their story, after “Created Soul”.
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Lindsay Palmes
Robert Lang
“In 1967 having spent five years as a boarder at Rockhampton Grammar School I attended The Southport School before returning home to Glandore in the Dawson Valley. Accompanied by my guitar I followed a path in the Pastoral and Agricultural industry which took me around Australia eventually to the Emerald Agricultural College as a staff member in 1978. I had been introduced to Australian Bush/Folk Music before moving to Emerald where I continued this interest. In Emerald I was also involved with the Emerald Arts Council and the Emerald Little Theatre, both groups giving me the opportunity to perform in concerts and musical theatre over many years. Now retired in Yeppoon, I am a member of the Yeppoon Choral Society and have recently joined YUM (the Yeppoon Ukulele Movement). After 53 years it has given me immense pleasure to catch up with the other members of our “Rock” Band from Rocky Grammar School days.”
“I was born into a canefarming family near Mackay and grew up near Marlborough in Central Queensland. Mum home schooled me for seven years then off to RGS for the next five. Learnt to play drums at the 42nd Battalion pipes and drums in Rockhampton. Always heavily involved in community organisations including rowing, Rural Fire Service, Rats of Tobruk local chapter (my Dad was a Rat of Tobruk) and the Rockhampton Agricultural Society. Married to Michele (nee Beak) for 45 years and the proud dad of three sons, who all attended the School. Grandad to two girls at RGS, and another one starting in 2022, which makes them all fourth generation. Best bands ever must be The Beatles, The Who, and Cold Chisel. Still love my music and as is often said, ‘If it ‘s too loud, you are too old’.”
Doug Yuille
Jim Randell
Here’s a timeline of Doug’s life: 1950s/1960s: Grew up on cattle and grain farms. Educated at a bush school 40 miles north of Clermont. Secondary School at Rocky Grammar. Learnt useful stuff like Latin, French and English, played pop music with Jim Randell, Robert Lang and Lindsay Palmes. Studied Ag Science and blues music at UNE (University of New England) in Armidale. More tertiary education in Rocky, played bush music on weekends. 1970s: Draftsman on Fairbairn Dam, Emerald. Regular gigs in towns from Rockhampton to Rolleston. 1980s/1990s: Canberra bureaucrat, played in reggae band. 2000s: Environmental NGOs, advisor to Premier Goss and Lord Mayor Soorley. Now retired and playing in Folk Clubs and Woodford Folk Festival.
“I was born and raised in Carmila, south of Mackay, where the family grew sugar cane for a number of generations. I attended RGS as a boarder from 1963. After school I gained a degree in Industrial Chemistry as one of the first graduates from CQU. I then worked for 50 years in the resource industry from 1970, working in Australia and the USA with roles in production, international marketing and power station operations. In 2019 I retired as Executive General Manager of a Queensland coal mining company and now live on my farm growing avocadoes, lychees and timber. I’m also enjoying life as a father of two and grandfather of four. I have continued playing music.”
“If it’s too loud, you are too old” - Robert Lang
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Planning for success
Daniel Krause is helping shape the future of communities
Daniel Krause – Young Planner of the Year
“ Town planning has the ability to influence the design and use of spaces and places and inform and guide how our cities and towns grow” Daniel Krause
The Solomon Islands Capstone Project was something that three friends and Daniel created in their final semester at Bond University in January 2015 (they were all studying Planning). Daniel said this initial trip and selection of the location (Solomon Islands) was a result of students from Bond’s Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine having been working in Kira Kira for one to two years prior and the existing relationship Bond had started to develop with the community. “Initially, our task was largely based around stakeholder engagement and building a working relationship and trust with the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government and local community which then went on to us creating high-level plans for the construction of a new hospital and new community infrastructure within Kira Kira,’’ Daniel said. “Some of our key challenges included a lack of resources (financial, technological and skills), the remote location and a lack of understanding within Government and the general community of what planning is and the role it plays in shaping society and the communities we live in, and the language barrier.”
While there were challenges, the team has enjoyed seeing the achievements from this project. Some of their main achievements included educating the Provincial Government (bureaucracy and politicians) of the importance of good planning and how it can enable a society, seeing the Provincial Government Planning Section grow to four full-time employees and the Stage 1 construction of the Kira Kira Market Place. While deciding where his future would lead, a town planning career appealed to Daniel for many reasons. “Town planning has the ability to influence the design and use of spaces and places and inform and guide how our cities and towns grow,’’ Daniel said. “I also enjoy the cross-disciplinary nature of the profession. You kind of need an understanding of engineering, architecture, urban design, construction, economics, law and project management to be an effective planner. “It also provides an opportunity to be involved in the development industry.” Next page: Award Citation
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Award Citation
Daniel Krause is an inspirational young planner, who has used his education and knowledge of planning practice to empower communities in the Solomon Islands. Daniel has crossed national boundaries to help our neighbours, while also being an exemplar young planner locally, on the Gold Coast. Not only has Daniel dedicated his early career to advancing social outcomes in the Solomon Islands, but he has also inspired fellow young planners to do the same through Bond University. Being able to advance such important work is the sign of a good young planner – but being able to empower others to do the same is the sign of an exceptional young planner. Daniel stands out among other nominees due to the extent of his advocacy work, presenting at conferences, mentoring students at Bond University, and acting as a role model for the next generation of young planners. Daniel’s passion for planning and strong technical abilities are made clearly evident in the highly complementary testimonials his nomination received. Within his few short years in the Planning profession, Daniel has amassed a broad range of experience in development assessment, spanning varied scales and jurisdictions; providing positive social outcomes. The judges were left with no doubt that Daniel makes a deserving Young Planner of the Year for 2020.
Leaping into new passions “You will live many lives. Never fear chasing a new passion.” - Patrick Cooper For Patrick Cooper (RGS 2010), life was all about living and breathing trampoline. It was his first passion in life. Over a 17-year period Patrick, now based in Sydney, was a six-time international trampoline champion, three-time Australian Team captain and represented Australia at the Youth Olympic Games. Little did he know that after competing in the 2014 World Championships in South Africa, a backpacking holiday to climb Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania would change the course of his life and uncover his second passion – healthcare. Patrick Cooper
“When I came home to Rockhampton, I had lost my passion for sport after seeing a very different world,’’ Patrick said. “I was lost. It was a big transition in my life. “I saw some terrible things in that part of the world. The lack of access to basic healthcare was the scariest for me. I always imagined that it was never as bad as people made it seem online – but I was wrong. I had been so focused on achieving in sport that I never looked around to see where I should have been putting my energy.” Patrick had earlier first-hand discovered the value of Australia’s incredible health services. He broke 21 bones during his trampoline career. As a 17-year-old completing Year 12, just after returning from the 2010 Youth Olympic games, Patrick had a fall during a training session at Victoria Park Gymnastics and Trampoline Club. He suffered a C7 spinal injury and had to learn to walk again. “I knew that if I was going to be a doctor, I could impact maybe five people in an hour as a GP – but if I helped to design, build and share medical devices, my work could help more people,’’ Patrick said. Patrick took the plunge, taking on an orderly role at the Rockhampton Mater Hospital and the following year enrolled in an Associate Degree of Engineering (Electrical, Electrical and Electronics Engineering) at Central Queensland University.
said Patrick, thinking back to the days when sport was his sole focus and pursuing higher level education was not in the picture. “The next battle was tough, changing my identity to fit my new career goals. I went from being a world champion to pushing beds in a hospital,’’ Patrick said. “I struggled with my mental headspace and ego. I was frustrated. I went from being at the top of my game to what felt like stage one again. But in time and a brutally positive attitude, the shift proved valuable after specialising in operating theatre design.” Patrick then travelled the world designing and building operating theatres with the medical device company, Stryker. Over the next four years Patrick led the installations of over 350 operating theatres which will touch over 10 million people in the next 10 years. Patrick has recently settled down in Sydney to take on a challenging leadership role at the women’s health medical device company, Hologic Inc. This innovative company is a global leader in breast cancer detection and diagnostics testing, most recently cited for the development of a high accuracy, high throughput COVID-19 test. “The decisions I made leaving school, weren’t the right decisions for me. They lead me to what I needed to do,” said Patrick, who has a new zest for life in the healthcare. “I never dreamed of seeing myself as a people leader, working in business or with medical devices. “Never be afraid of moving forward and moving away from who you were.” Patrick plans to one day of take his healthcare passions to the parts of the world where it is truly needed – developing nations and the world’s most underprivileged. “Do what you’re passionate about. There is always a risk in staying and a risk in doing something different. You will fall down, I have fallen more times than I can count. Life is about how you get back up again.”
“I would have laughed if you said I would be an engineer,’’
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Road to recovery
Communities across Australia still rally together to rise from the ashes Andrew Colvin (RGS 1987) had completed his term as Australian Federal Police Commissioner and was enjoying time with his family before he was called upon to lead the National Bushfire Recovery Agency, appointed National Co-ordinator after the devastating Australian fires of 2019/2020. Andrew reflects on the past 12 months and the changing space of challenges gripping our country. “January 2020 was a whirlwind that now seems like many years ago, not just the 12 months that have passed. For most Australians the Black Summer of 2019/20, as it has become known, was dominated by an overwhelming sense of grief, frustration, fear and amazement at the bushfires that engulfed large parts of our country, and the pride we had in our volunteers who placed themselves between danger and our communities. It captured the world’s attention, and rightly so. I was no different to anyone else. Having recently completed my term as Australian Federal Police Commissioner I was spending my summer period on the south coast of NSW, contemplating what would be next for me but also wondering what I could do to help during the unfolding crisis. The answer came with a phone call in early January asking me to lead the national recovery effort and establish the National Bushfire Recovery Agency (NBRA). It wasn’t what I was thinking, but opportunity rarely knocks in the way you anticipate. Twelve months later, our country is dealing with a very different crisis, while hopefully not forgetting the many communities so devastated by the 19/20 fires. Across Australia, 112 local government areas (LGAs) have now been triggered for government support as a result of last summer’s fires, and to put that in context it equates to approximately 20% of all LGAs (Local Government Areas) across Australia. Over 35 million hectares of land – almost 5% of Australia’s total land mass - burnt in a six month period. Many of those fires were seasonal and did not impact communities in unexpected ways, but we all saw the impact of those fires that crept up on, and destroyed, some of our most loved and well known areas. As one victim so aptly described it to me ‘a monster emerged from the National Park and destroyed my town.’ 34 lives were lost, over 4000 homes were destroyed or significantly damaged, there was an untold impact on our natural environment, and people’s lives were deeply affected across our entire eastern seaboard and around to Adelaide and Kangaroo Island. On any measure, the fires that engulfed Australia last summer were unprecedented in recorded memory. Most RGS former students will be very familiar with the fires that started near Yeppoon very early in the 19/20 bushfire season. Queensland has always had an early start to the fire season, but
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these fires were particularly early and quickly had their impact felt. The very early nature of these fires gave me the opportunity to visit Yeppoon early in my tenure, to talk to local farmers affected by the fires, and spend time with the Livingstone Shire Council. It was my first time back to the region in around six years (not something I am overly proud of!), and gave me a chance to see firsthand the impact of the fires, and what the region may need to kick start recovery. It also gave me the opportunity to be reminded that Central Queensland is an area that is very accustomed to natural disasters. Be it drought, floods, bushfires or cyclones, the region has been through a lot in the past decade and it reminded me that while my focus was on how communities could recover from bushfires, many of these communities were already dealing with the effects of earlier or ongoing natural hazards. It was an important message for me so early in my tenure, and is one I have carried through my travels to other bushfire-affected communities. Twelve months on, recovery is happening. It looks different in every region, every town, and for every individual; it is a deeply personal pathway and no two trajectories will be the same. Some individuals, some sectors, some businesses will recovery more quickly than others. We should not expect it to be even, nor do we expect it to be simple. Recovery from natural disasters is complex, and often dependent on circumstances that existed well before the disaster hit. Resilience is a word often used, rarely understood, but central to the ability for a town or a family to bounce back. And then of course there was COVID-19! For the NBRA, and for me personally, we had just started to find our rhythm when national lock downs began, and while these provided additional challenges to the recovery effort, they did not deter it. Like everyone, we had to make adjustments. Physical visits were replaced by virtual visits and the NBRA found new, and often improved, ways to connect with bushfire affected communities and individuals. While many of our initial recovery objectives, such as enhanced domestic and international tourism proposals, had to be reshaped, the lock downs provided many communities the space they needed to take stock and reflect upon what was needed to recover over the longer term. And while COVID-19 has had an obvious impact on some pathways to recovery, it was amazing to witness the positivity
that continued to come from both individuals and communities as they battled the cumulative impacts of so many unplanned events. With 2020 now behind us, the NBRA is looking forward to the longer term recovery needs of impacted communities. Community projects have begun to emerge across economic, environment, infrastructure and social needs. But it will take time. I have been particularly concerned, but also inspired, by the willingness of so many bushfire victims to speak with me openly and frankly about their mental health and wellbeing challenges as a result of their experiences. We have a long way to go in Australia to understand and fully acknowledge the damaging impacts of mental injury, but it begins with starting conversations and I feel that as a nation we have definitely started that conversation. My overwhelming reflection from 2020 is the strength that comes from community, and the willingness of Australians to act in the best interests of each other, before themselves. These are qualities that we should be proud of in Australia and it has been a privilege to see them time and time again in response to the Black Summer.”
“ Twelve months on, recovery is happening. It looks different in every region, every town, and for every individual; it is a deeply personal pathway and no two trajectories will be the same.” Andrew Colvin
Andrew Colvin (right) meets with landholders in the Yeppoon district during the bushfire recovery efforts.
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“OB” spreads his wings after RGS days William Cooper O’Brien attended RGS in 1933 - 1934 before embarking on an adventurous life. Thank you to Wendy for sharing her dad’s life story with The Grammarian.
William Cooper O’Brien was born in Emerald, Queensland, on 11 April 1919, the sixth of seven children. His father was also William Cooper so, as a child, he was known as ‘Cooper’. Family tales give the impression that he and his younger brother, Douglas (also a Rocky Grammar boy), were a mischievous pair and must have led their parents a merry dance. Cooper was a student at Rocky Grammar for his Sub Junior and Junior years (1933 - 34). From what his family has heard he enjoyed those years but focused on sport rather than his studies. Unfortunately he went down with mumps the day before the Junior exams, was therefore unable to sit those very important exams, and so didn’t gain the so important Junior Certificate. (How many of his classmates also had mumps at that time?) The lack of a Junior Certificate wasn’t as problematic as it could have been as Cooper had already made arrangements to join “the Central Queensland Agency” when he left school. It is understood that the Agency’s main function was selling insurance. World War II broke out in 1939 and the young Cooper (probably by now starting to be known as Bill) applied to join both the Army and the Air Force. The Army responded first and he enlisted for service in Rockhampton on the 28th November 1939. However his service in the Army was short. In July 1940, he received his call up to the RAAF and was discharged from the Army to join the RAAF on 7th July 1940. Bill’s service in the RAAF took him to Malaya where he was stationed at Kota Bharu. Kota Bharu is on the North East Coast of Malaya (now Malaysia) and the pilots from that squadron were the first to see service against the Japanese, before the British Government declared war on the Japanese, and seven hours before the attack on Pearl Harbour on 7 December 1941. The Japanese advance on Kota Bharu and the rest of Malaya was rapid and the squadrons based there were given instructions to abandon the base. The base commander gave the order that it was every man for himself, and that it was their duty to get to somewhere where they
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could regroup and continue to fight the enemy. Bill made it to Singapore, but wasn’t able to get a ship back to Australia. Ever resourceful, Bill, another RAAF member, and a Catholic Priest from Perth commandeered a small fishing boat that got them to Sumatra and then Java. While in the Indonesian Islands they had contact with the Dutch Military and Bill was issued with a Geweer 95 rifle that is still in the family. The three of them managed to find a small, coal fired boat going to Fremantle in Western Australia where Bill was able to rejoin his squadron after 87 days on the run from the Japanese. From there Bill had a number of postings including Townsville, Maryborough and Amberley. There wasn’t a lot of employment for exservicemen in post war Queensland, and Bill now had more than himself to think about. He had met a young WAAAF (Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force) from Rockhampton while he was posted in Townsville. They were married in St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Rockhampton on 28th July 1943, and soon also had a daughter to provide for. Their solution was to go to Papua (which later became part of the Territory of Papua and New Guinea) where he had relations. Bill began with the Public Service in Port Moresby in August 1946, and as there was no available married accommodation at the time, his wife and daughter were unable to join him until 1947. Bill (now known as OB) started with the Department of Agriculture Stock and Fisheries, then worked his way up the ladder through the Department of the Treasury, the Department of Education (where for a while, one of his duties was to bring indigenous children to Australia to boarding school. This included seeing that they had their uniforms - including, quite often, their first pair of shoes, and in some cases, introducing them to the European way of eating meals at a table), and the Department of Lands. OB’s final promotion was to the newly created position of “Chairman of the Promotion Appeals Board”. Prior to this all Territory promotion appeals were heard in Canberra. OB was very active in the
Public Service association and as vice president was heavily involved in negotiations with the Australian government over conditions for public servants in the expected Independence of the Territory. In his non working life, OB was very active in community work. He was president of school P & Cs, was a member of the RSL where, on at least one occasion, he was Santa Claus at the childrens’ Christmas party, and the Konedobu (Kone) Club. He organised fundraising functions for numerous charities including, in 1955, the floods in northern NSW. His love of sport wasn’t forgotten. In his earlier years in Port Moresby, he played badminton, tennis, and hockey. In the late 1950s he was coaching boxing for indigenous youth with matches on a Friday nights. He was also fond of clay target shooting. OB is possibly best remembered for his association with the Kone Tigers Ruby League team. At the start of his association with this team, rugby league in the Territory of Papua and New Guinea was a strictly European sport. When OB’s involvement with the Kone Tigers began they were the “Wooden Spooners” in the Port Moresby competition. OB suggested to the club that they recruit a young indigenous player to the team. At the time this was an extremely bold suggestion, but to their credit, not one person voiced dissent – and so John Kaputin, who learned his football skills at Rocky Grammar joined the Kone Tigers and became the first indigenous player in the Port Moresby competition. The team later went on to win two consecutive premierships. OB’s great love was fishing. He spent many, many hours dangling a line from the Port Moresby wharf. He didn’t eat fish. OB was on leave in Brisbane in January 1968 when he suffered a major heart attack. This led to him being invalided out of the public service and retiring to Scarborough in Queensland. He died in the early hours of 15th August 1972, leaving a wife, three children and two grandchildren.
Rowan Hill (RGS 1992)
Uni prac teaching @RGS
Lachlan Hill (RGS 2016) has found his feet in the world of teaching. Now in his second year at CQUniversity, when Lachlan finished school he studied physiotherapy for one year before realising that career was not for him. After working for two years, and earning some money, Lachlan started his teaching studies. “I love teaching. I feel like it’s what I was meant to do. I like helping the kids and being able to help them change the future. It’s very rewarding. I couldn’t see myself being a secondary school teacher. The kids are also really well behaved here (at RGS).” Lachlan has also managed to catch up with his RGS Primary School teachers Mrs Robertson, Mrs Ruddick, Mrs Whitehead, Mr Robertson, Mr Scott and his Year 7 teacher Mr Rooks.
Teaghan Leach attended RGS from Prep to Year 3 (2009) and refamiliarised herself with her old Primary school during her CQUniversity prac teaching block. “Everything has changed so much since I was at school but it’s good to see how it’s developed as a school since I’ve been there. Building structures have changed but the way the teachers are teaching in the classroom is a lot different. I don’t remember much teaching from when I was little, but the way they use the interactive board, and OneNote, and the resources they use in the class is very different from when I was their (students) age. It’s good to see how it has evolved to help the students needs and learning. I’ve always been really good interacting with children. This was the only job I felt I could still do that. It’s different not being the one sitting down taking the notes. I’m the one observing and helping them (students).” Even Teaghan’s Primary teachers are still at RGS – Mrs Mehlhose, Mrs Ruddick, Mrs Robertson and Mrs Spark!
Emmeline Elder (RGS 2014) was looking to do something different after finishing school. In 2017-2018 Emmeline found herself working as a governess on a cattle station in the Northern Territory. “I also did some station work in the Territory and just loved the lifestyle,’’ Emmeline said. This led to further governess and property work, returning to Central Queensland to work with the Mactaggart family for two years and this year Emmeline also has governess work near Ridgelands. Emmeline grew up in Rockhampton where her family run a health food shop. Apart from enjoying riding her horses on a block outside of Rockhampton when she was growing up, Emmeline had no experience working and living on a property. “I love the combination of being able to teach and being outdoors working on the property,’’ Emmeline said. “In my spare time on weekends I’m at home working with mum and dad in the health food shop. My sister Lillian (RGS 2011) is a nutritionist.” Emmeline, who has resumed her teacher aide studies this year following the COVID disruptions of 2020, worked with RGS Prep students during Term 1.
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Filling in the gap Claire Sherry graduated from Year 12 at The Rockhampton Grammar School in 2019. Claire had a few options at the end of school, but what most appealed to the young boarder from “Wahroonga”, Marlborough, was a gap year as a ringer on a large cattle station. Claire provided The Grammarian with an insight into her gap year and what’s in store for 2021.
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“2020 was a massive full year of changes and challenges for everyone and it was certainly no different for me. In the middle of February, I packed up my bags and headed out west to start work as a station hand on Kynuna Station. Located two hours north of Winton, 180km south of Cloncurry and 120km south west of Julia Creek, Kynuna Station is a 350,000-acre backgrounding property owned by The North Australian Pastoral Company (NAPCO) with the predominant role of fattening trade heifers before consignment to the company feedlot. Every young ringer heading up north to work on a larger station has different expectations and feelings. For me, I learnt about learning about everything. Having only three ringers in the stock camp and working alongside our manager I got to have a real go at everything. All our mustering was done on two wheelers due to the nature of the place so coming from a cattle property where we work on horses - rest assured everyone got a good laugh out of working with me during the first few months of cattle work. We also did some tailing and walking away done on horses. One of my most memorable experiences from working at Kynuna was the capability of a small group of people who have their mind really set on a job. With just four of us we were able to handle mobs of up to a thousand or 1500 capably. Although, working on a cattle station is so much more than just the mustering, I learnt from my manager that the best ringers know how to do everything. Coming
from a place where we have a lot of natural water sources such as dams and creeks, I got to learn about turkeys’ nests as a provider for water, how to improve outlets in the nests so the drinking quality of the water will be better for the cattle and the maintenance of bores. We butchered beasts for killers and 1080 baiting, sprayed for prickly acacia, fenced, pulled bores, welded rails and cut steel for projects around the station, processed and tailed thousands of weaners, completed a horse shoeing school and I even obtained a Certificate 3 in Agriculture and a Medium Rigid (MR) truck license throughout the year. For myself, I see my future in the cattle industry as this is my passion. Currently I am home working with my family and its great to be back in Central Queensland and working with our cattle. For 2021 I have my sights set on breaking in and preparing our bulls for Beef Week and would love to work with a few different cattle studs as well. I would love to head back up and work for NAPCO again as I enjoyed the difference in country and learning how to work with larger mobs of cattle and meeting so many new people. I would encourage anyone passionate about cattle and the agricultural industry to give it a go and head up north and experience a larger station, different country and ways of working and to challenge themselves.”
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COVID frontline Dr Mani Manickam (RGS 2006) shares his insights into Victoria’s COVID second wave. “I am delighted to share my experience as a frontline medical doctor in the most spoken about and feared Victorian COVID second wave. In 2006, the lessons learnt at RGS allowed me to graduate with the confidence to make my way in the world. I did not initially know exactly what I wanted to do after high school but I was confident I wanted to have a positive impact. I was fortunate to receive several offers from four universities across three states in Australia and chose to enrol in The Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery at UNSW (University of New South Wales). I graduated with a Masters level qualification of B.Med MD and moved to North Queensland to complete my residency. I gained valuable experience working long hours (up to 80 hours with limited breaks) in rural towns requiring uninterrupted attention to detail, analytical thinking and thinking outside the box when treating people with fewer resources than what is available in a metropolitan centre. With the experience and the positive feedback from the patients and supervisors, I soon gained enough confidence to establish Arul Medical Pty Ltd. I moved to Melbourne and pursued opportunities working in areas of workforce shortage, especially aged care, and taking on challenges that most avoided. When COVID first struck Australia in late March 2020, there were many unknowns and a level of fear and apprehension as the medical fraternity ran through drills on how to manage patients if we ran out of life saving equipment, personnel and medications. Fortunately; these scenarios did not eventuate in Australia. During the second wave in Victoria, Cabrini Hopetoun invited me to be a senior clinician within a specialised COVID ward. The ward was specifically residents of aged care facilities who were too sick to be treated at their residence. The risk of falling ill myself was weighed up against the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the community. I accepted the offer, despite cautioning from a few colleagues. I worked alongside another very capable doctor and a leading Infectious Diseases Specialist – a photo of our medical team (with me at the centre of the photo) along with paramedics and supportive staff is shown above). We managed a 30-bed ward with moderate to very unwell patients. The patients we managed were not only suffering from COVID but had many other complex medical conditions. We employed round the clock supportive management and followed evidence presented in research papers which were just landing hot off the press. There is no cure for COVID-19; the primary mode of treatment is supportive care. To put it another way we are keeping people alive until their
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body creates its own antibodies to clear the infection. Few medications worked to directly improve the chance of survival. One of the most effective medications we used was dexamethasone, a strong steroid. Dexamethasone worked by reducing the immune system’s potential to ‘over-react’ and lead to collateral damage in the lungs and other parts of the body. Oxygen was also used to help people breathe. In addition to this we managed the complex interplay of the patient’s existing disorders which added a layer of complexity. The workload at Hopetoun was to be primarily shared between myself and my colleague but in the second week my colleague fell ill and tested positive for COVID-19. I think it was at this point that the reality of the situation really struck home; probabilities and odds had become reality - but the risk to one’s own health was not the only realisation. As I worked nearly seven days a week for several weeks without being able to find a replacement for my sick colleague, the realisation was that there were very few experienced healthcare staff left to call upon as cases went up and more became unwell or had to isolate. Doctors, nurses, allied health, paramedics, cleaners and other support staff were all in short supply. History would show that we came closer to running out of staff well before being short on ventilators. The importance of disciplined PPE usage was reiterated and staff who were unsure were retrained. Fortunately, we persevered and some of the most decisive government policies enacted in living memory enabled Victoria to take control over the second wave and lead to a sustained period of effective elimination. The vast majority of the patients on our ward recovered and I am proud to say the mortality rate amongst our patients was significantly lower than what was expected for patients in their age group despite the fact many of our patients had significantly more complex medical conditions and co-morbidities. Ultimately, we were successful in treating our patients and returning them to their homes in late September; almost six weeks ahead of schedule. Watching our last patient leaving our ward with a smile on her face was very rewarding. The team at Hopetoun did a great job. At the start of 2021 Australia finds itself in an enviable position. There is good engagement and cohesion between the public, healthcare professionals and the state and federal governments. There are multiple effective vaccines which are being rolled out throughout the world; an amazing scientific achievement. I foresee international travel will return this year and as the global vaccinations rates go up. I hope we will soon be back to normal, not just COVID normal.” - Dr Mani Manickam
Isabella’s back to help the CQ region Isabella Fanning (RGS 2013) is back in the Central Queensland region working with CHRRUP (Central Highlands Regional Resources Use Planning) Cooperative. “I’m very happy to be back in Central Queensland from Ballarat, working with agricultural businesses, and building networks to achieve improved employment outcomes,’’ Isabella said. “The area I cover is vast and I’m excited about spending time on the road, meeting new people, and re-connecting with some old faces.” Isabella’s role helps to further drive industry growth and rural jobs within the local community by providing advice and guidance on workforce attraction, recruitment and development. “After spending 2020 in unprecedented conditions, navigating the ‘eye of the storm’ in Ballarat, Victoria as the administration supervisor of the Central Victorian Livestock Exchange, I’m glad to be back home,’’ Isabella said.
Isabella’s Central Highlands region spans from Emerald through the Central West to the Queensland/ Northern Territory border. Isabella was a day student at RGS, her family own a cattle seedstock and agribusiness in the Rockhampton district. Isabella also gained an interest in the agriculture sector at school through her Agricultural Science studies and being a member of the RGS Show Cattle team. Isabella is a part of the Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network—known as QAWN. With a Bachelor of Agriculture from the Central Queensland University and extensive beef industry experience in Rockhampton and Victoria, Isabella is well-placed to provide Central Queensland agribusinesses with crucial business support.
League team mates remain great friends The RGS First XIII rugby league team left quite an impression in the 1958 season. Team mates Lance Currie, Michael Evans and Sir John Kaputin still regularly catch up with each other in Brisbane. And there’s a fair chance that at every catch up there is always some room for conversation about “that” rugby league team. In the 1958 Capricornus Yearbook it read - “The 1958 First XIII would probably be the finest team the school has produced. Words on paper could never describe the unbelievable handling and backing-up of this team. This thirteen did everything that was asked of them and deserved all the success they achieved.” The team scored 424 points against 15 during the 10 inter-school matches. Needless to say the Firsts were undefeated Premiers that year. The team played against Rockhampton State High School, Mt Morgan State High School, North Rockhampton State High School, St Brendan’s College and Christian Brothers College. Michael Evans was awarded the best player trophy while Kevin Anderson and Brian Purdie filled second and third places.
(From left) Sir John Kaputin, Lance Currie and Mike Evans enjoy a regular catch up in Brisbane.
Here are their player profiles from the 1958 Yearbook: Johnnie Kaputin (Wing three-quarter) A dazzling speedster from Rabaul who is a real match winner. Has improved greatly this season and if he can learn to run straight will be a force to be reckoned with next year. Lance Currie (Fullback) Has possibilities of developing into a fine full-back if he will concentrate on his game. A very useful utility player who should be a big help in 1959. Michael Evans (Centre three-quarter) Possesses outstanding football ability and can grasp the situation in a flash. He has a dazzling burst of speed over 25 yards, and can step off either foot. He should go a long way in the game.
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The world game James Johnson (RGS 1994, Year 7) was like so many other kids growing up in Rockhampton. He loved playing many different sports, but his sporting passion always belonged to football (soccer). After pursuing professional playing dreams, James is now Chief Executive Officer of the Football Federation of Australia. This is his story.
For the love of football: “It was more than just a sport. It was the community. We were very involved with the club. I’d go from school to training. We were always at the club, weekends, weekdays. They were good years. They were good people who came together for a common purpose. Great years when I look back on them.” Junior football days: I played for the school team and Berserker. I started getting into representative football around 10 or 11. I made the Rocky rep team (as a central midfielder) and then got involved in Central Queensland teams when I was in under-12s. We went to Mt Isa for state titles in under-13s and I made my first Queensland team. Then it was a case of if I wanted to get into the Queensland Academy of Sport and national teams I had to relocate to Brisbane. There was a discussion for a year with my parents about me moving to Brisbane on my own. My parents then decided they would move back to Brisbane. I continued with Queensland teams and regional zone teams at Brisbane South. I made the QAS team and then the Joeys (Australian junior team). Interestingly, from the age 17-20, I was always away a lot outside of Australia with national teams and trials with European clubs. I played in Vietnam and had fours years of college in Boston. A big chunk of my life has been in Rockhampton.
learning playing soccer were transferable into the classroom. It’s something I probably didn’t realise until I got out of college (Boston, USA). At an elite level and studying at a high level as well. 14 hours a day you’re in one of the two – classroom or pitch. That balance between school and playing in a club at grassroots level starts to prepare you for that lifestyle. It’s a good experience. Things like making sure I could manage time and that I could work with people. The softer skills. In Boston, that’s where it (dreams of being a professional football player) started to dwindle. Earlier when I was playing in Vietnam I tore my ACL which put me out of the game for a year. At the age of 19 I started to realise how precarious a professional playing career in sport was. It was really hard. One day you’re playing in front of 20,000 as a 19-year-old in southeast Asia at a decent level, knowing you’re not going to peak for another seven years, and the next day you’re in a hospital bed in Da Nang being told there’s no football for a year. You start thinking what am I going to do, will I lose a lot of speed, will I get reoccuring injuries. That’s when I went to college because I knew I needed a balance between elite sport and education. It was a hard period, but it was a a good period because it set me up for things I wanted to do later in life. Football administrator:
A life of sport: My parents always allowed me to do sport but were strict ensuring I was doing school at the same time. I found that a lot of the skills I was
It has its pros and cons. When push comes to shove you’re working in sport and that’s fantastic. It’s an interesting industry. It’s very dynamic. It’s very time consuming. It
A Quick Quiz with James Favourite Club - I grew up supporting Manchester United, but after working at Manchester City, what that club is doing off the pitch is incredible. Favourite Football Moment - Winning the hosting rights of the 2023 Women’s World Cup. As a player, it’s playing with the Berserker Bears and being part of a community through sport. 2021 Goal - Hopefully watching the Matildas win a medal at the Olympics.
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1994 Capricornus Yearbook
never really stops. You’re administrating during the week and the matches are usually on weekends. Working around the clock seven days a week. FIFA or Manchester City (James’ previous places of employment) are big global organisations. Around the globe there’s always something going on so you’re always connected. There’s no such thing as a 9 to 5 job in sports administration. Football Federation of Australia CEO: I started in January 2020. The same time as the COVID tsunami hit. It was nice starting with FFA but also moving back to Australia as well. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to actually transform the sport. I was giving a lot up being in the epicentre of world football in Europe. I wanted to come back and make a lot of changes that I thought were necessary with the game over here (in Australia). That became easy when COVID hit. For those who were resistant to change it became a case of requiring change to keep the sport up and running in a period of change and transformation. There’s a lot of opportunity, particularly around the women’s game, and particularly with the World Cup coming here (in 2023). We also lack a bit of identity. The A-League is important, but you’re effectively comparing that league with the NRL and AFL. Our big opportunity is with our national teams and grassroots football. A great thing about our sport is that you can play Japan one day, US the next and then a top European team. spon in Malaysia before joining
FIFA in Switzerland and then moving to Manchester City in England.
The Isolated Children Parents Association Queensland President lived on the Western Downs for 14 years and is now in Toowoomba with her children and teaching full time.
CQ: Why did you get involved in ICPA? TI: ICPA was something my parents were a part of as I was growing up in Theodore, and I remember several members of our community being heavily involved at the time. When we had children and moved to Glenmorgan, my next door neighbour invited me to a local branch meeting… the rest, as they say, is history! I attended a State Conference, was part of the committee to convene two state conferences and a Federal conference and joined State Council in 2012. I could see that this was something I could be really passionate about, and it directly benefitted my own children and community. There is no better feeling than standing in a room of like-minded people who understand and share your passion for rural and remote education in all its forms. CQ: How important is ICPA for Queensland families? TI: I am blessed to have seen firsthand how important our organisation is for so many families across our State. We work closely with all sectors of the education system,
Q&A Tammie Irons (nee Austin) 1993 including universities, TAFE, Distance Education and boarding schools. We cover issues from travel to teacher education, curriculum to communication, early childhood to tertiary – and everything in between! We provide a voice for our members in Brisbane when there are issues of inequity that need to be highlighted to those who are making decisions which impact on our rural and remote kids. Without ICPA, these decisions are made with little consideration of the unique situations our families face in outback Qld. I am so proud to be a part of such a well-respected organisation whose opinion is sought after and valued at high levels within Qld government departments.
CQ: 2020 was a difficult year with COVID, how hard was it for you watching Qld boarding families in these times? TI: Well difficult is probably an understatement for so many of us… it’s been devastating personally knowing how tough our boarding families from across Qld, and indeed across Australia, have been doing it. The emotional and mental strain that these
Senior Debating Central Queensland Senior Apex Debating Champions: Front: Tammie Ausin, Mr Sutherland, Kerry MeadenKendrick; Back: Rebecca Landis, Tristan Williams, Justin Williams, Carla Klease. 1993 Capricornus Yearbook.
families have been under several times this year has been heartbreaking, and to be able to play a part in ensuring our boarders are remembered and catered for specifically has been rewarding. It’s times like these when you see how powerful organisations can be when they come together for a common cause – it’s been a tough year but the silver lining has been the opportunity to highlight the life of boarders and the pivotal role which organisations such as ICPA and ABSA (Australian Boarding Schools Association) can play for our members.
CQ: What do you love most about regional Qld? TI: I’m all about community… I’ve always been a volunteer no matter where I lived, and it’s my firm belief that a sense of community is what keeps the bush strong. Bush communities are full of people who are passionate and invested in their children and what they can do to ensure they have the best opportunities despite their isolation. The spirit of these communities is what I love and am so proud of!
“ There is no better feeling than standing in a room of like-minded people who understand and share your passion for rural and remote education in all its forms.” Tammie Irons
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Strengthening regional ties Vector helps steer students on the right path with health science careers Step through the doors of Vector Health and Performance in Rockhampton and there’s a few familiar faces from the RGS community. Many current students work on their strength and conditioning at the business, which is a supporter of the RGS co-curricular programme and Certificate III Fitness studies. Vector is also providing a workplace avenue for RGS past students. The Grammarian caught up with Class of 2015 graduates: Jamie Saunders, Rigardt Kruger and Lachlan Knuth.
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Jamie Saunders
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No client is the same for Jamie Saunders. After completing her Exercise Physiology studies at the University of Queensland, Jamie reconnected with Rockhampton’s Vector Health and Glenn Hansen, who assisted Jamie with her athletics training while at school. “At Vector Health my youngest client is around 12-years-old and my oldest client is 87. It’s very different and you have to adapt to working with different ages,’’ said Jamie. “Pain has such a different effect on different people. It’s also a mental game as well trying to overcome those barriers to chronic pain. I just hope I can help them.” Initially enrolled in nutrition at the University of Queensland, Jamie fast learnt that the course wasn’t for her, particularly having not studied chemistry at school. Still wanting to pursue university studies Jamie looked at both sports science or
exercise physiology degrees, opting for the latter with a “more rewarding” vision of working more with the clinical population with chronic health conditions rather than pure athletic development. The course was still science based with more of a focus on biology, neuroscience and biomechanics. “Make sure you look at the course codes and try and talk with people who have graduated from the course you want to study or someone who has just started in the workforce and experienced the real world in that career,’’ Jamie said. Jamie is looking at focusing on work before possibly studying a masters in cancer rehabilitation. “We all know someone who has been touched by cancer. There’s amazing statistics on how exercise can help with quality of life,’’ Jamie said. “It’s nice to give them some hope.”
Rigardt Kruger
Lachlan Knuth
Rigardt Kruger always enjoyed keeping fit and now he can help people do that for a living. Following a five-week placement at Rockhampton’s Vector Health, Rigardt has now completed his Exercise Physiology studies at the University of Queensland. He’s now ready to put years of theory into practice. Rigardt’s placement at Vector Health reaffirmed his passion for his study area, enjoying the opportunity to work in a regional business with more clients across a variety of ages and needs. “It’s a bit of a mixed basket of clients at Vector which has been great,’’ Rigardt said. At School long distance running and rowing kept Rigardt heavily involved with fitness, especially taking rowing more seriously in Year 10 and hitting the gym two to three times a week. “I did a fair bit of strength and conditioning at school and I thought if I could do that for a living as part of my job then you can’t really ask for much better than that,’’ Rigardt said. “At the end of Year 12 I wasn’t entirely sure where I
wanted to go but knew I was interested in the health, science, medical field. I didn’t really know what each area did what until I started uni.” Starting in nutrition, the onslaught of chemistry wasn’t Rigardt’s thing. His attention then turned to either physiotherapy or exercise physiology. “Physio is more hands on with a bit of exercise where we use exercise for everything,’’ Rigardt said. Working in a gym is a bonus of the job, but Rigardt also welcomes the opportunity to work on his people skills. “Developing people skills isn’t something you can easily learn at uni sitting at a desk studying. That opportunity only comes with placement and working with so many different people,’’ Rigardt said. The university course has also provided a solid stepping stone to Rigardt’s future career ambitions in medicine. “This degree has given me a heads up on sports medicine, which has been exciting and interesting. At this stage I’m looking into surgery but that could definitely change,’’ Rigardt said.
Lachlan Knuth shares empathy with his physiotherapy clients, because he knows what it’s like to be in their shoes. “I wouldn’t say I enjoy making it painful for clients,’’ said Lachlan, who battled a few cricket injuries in the past. “I’m very empathic to clients because I was that client once. “You have to get right into that muscle and provoke pain to know what’s going on. It’s not fun for us (physiotherapists) but in some ways it’s fun because we know we’re on the right track.” Vector Health has provided Lachlan with his first job since graduating from CQUniversity late last year and takes him back to the place when he pushed himself through additional fitness programmes to help with his Year 11 and Year 12 cricket training. “I really enjoy working in that athletics pathway and helping people be the best they can possibly be,’’ Lachlan said. Lachlan has also welcomed the opportunity to continue supporting Central Queenslanders.
Leaving school Lachlan studied a double degree of a Bachelor of Exercise Science and Bachelor of Psychology at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). His plan was then to transfer to a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Griffith University. “I then heard about the same course at CQU (CQUniversity). I heard really good things about the course and it was an opportunity to move closer home to family,’’ Lachlan said. Lachlan said physiotherapy was about helping people from all walks of life. Not just athletes, but people later in life that are looking to get fitter and stronger and improving their quality of life. “That’s the big thing for me, to help make a difference in peoples lives, especially where I grew up in Central Queensland,’’ Lachlan said.
Glenn Hansen Vector Health Co-Owner Head Performance Coach
“When I first started Vector Health & Performance I had a vision of having my junior athletes train in our system, grow in confidence and physical competence, move to study at university and one day be able to come back and impact the very programmes that they had been a part of in their school years. In 2021, this is happening for our business, with Jamie Saunders accepting a position to commence as an Exercise Physiologist at the conclusion of her degree and Lachlan Knuth accepting a position as a Physiotherapist at Vector Health. Another former RGS student Rigardt Kruger has also taken the opportunity to increase his workplace knowledge at Vector Health before returning to Brisbane. It is really exciting for our business and to be able to offer employment opportunities to young people who we were able to coach during their junior athlete years.
The strong relationship we have shared with The Rockhampton Grammar School over the past years has meant that students know there is a great pathway for them to be able to come back and work in a business that puts care at the forefront of our mantra. Care of our team and our clients is the most important part of what we deliver every day. We are looking forward to continuing this trend over the coming years with more past students and athletes continuing their studies at university level.” * Glenn also heads the Certificate III Fitness course at RGS and is Teacher-in-Charge of Netball for 2021.
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Class of 2015 Here’s a quick snapshot of some more 2015 RGS graduates.
Lucy Blair
Binura Gunasinghe
Jesse Williams
Lives: Brisbane
Lives: Emerald
Lives: Brisbane
Occupation: Alumni Support Officer, University of Queensland
Occupation: Dentist
Occupation: Entertainer/Student
“I am a dentist, recently having graduated from James Cook University. I love being able to work in and give back to the community I grew up in.”
“Life has taken me on a rollercoaster of a ride. I moved to Brisbane in 2017 and since graduating have worked in both the Hospitality and Retail industries. In both industries I’ve met some unsuspecting people from Pop-Culture. Now in 2021 I’m entering the Early Childhood and Childcare industry by studying my Cert III through distance education. I’ve also been lucky to get back into my creative roots, performing as an alternative persona of Liz Anya in the form of Drag. This pathway has began to kick off with not only my own event of WHATYAMACALLIT but also being the face of JUST BE PROUD – OKAY TV – a platform for not only the LGBTQIA+ Community but all communities as well. Can’t wait to see what happens with 2021 and the future.”
“Having graduated mid-2020, I’m currently producing the UQ Alumni Podcast and finally learning what life’s like without homework!”
Grace McDonald Lives: Sydney Occupation: Entertainer/Fitness Instructor “I currently live in Sydney, Australia as a professional performer and part-time fitness instructor. I’ve been so lucky to have been able to pursue my dreams of being a performer in the entertainment industry whilst maintaining a steady career in fitness since my time at RGS. I love my lifestyle and how beautifully my two jobs compliment each other while still offering me two very different perspectives.”
Liam White
Anke Bezuidenhout
Ronan Turley
Lives: Brisbane
Lives: Brisbane
Lives: Brisbane
Occupation: Dentist
Occupation: Provisional Psychologist
Occupation: Insolvency Accountant
“Since 2015, I’ve completed university and become a fully qualified dentist working in the Gold Coast area, while also playing soccer and music.”
“I have been enjoying travelling, volunteering and working (travelling with sister Elné (RGS 2017) in the UK and Europe at the end of 2019). I’ve finished my Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) and will be beginning work as a Provisional Psychologist in Brisbane. And I am also a Zumba instructor.”
“I love the satisfaction of helping distressed people get through tough financial situations.”
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from the
Archives RGS - 140 years of education The Rockhampton Grammar School was officially opened at 11am on 1 February 1881. After a series of speeches from invitied guests, along with Headmaster Mr Wheatcroft, the opening ceremony was concluded by inviting pupils to enrol. 33 boys and 31 girls were entered into the School Register. J (Below is an extract from the 1899 RGS Chronicle school magazine from the article titled: “The Opening Day”.) The Rockhampton Grammar School was opened on the first of February, 1881. The big hall was filled with ladies and gentlemen, together with some children. The Rev. A Hay, M.A., Chairman of Trustees, first addressed the assembly. He gave a short account of the movement to form a Grammar School. He said that in the building they had got “a very good bargain for the money placed at their disposal.” They had obtained a staff of teachers who, they felt sure, were fully qualified to take charge of the institution.” .....Mr Wheatcroft then spoke. He said he thought it would not be out of
place to give them an idea of how he intended to conduct the institution. The work would at first be elementary, but he hoped they would soon be able to compete in University examinations. With regard to maintaining discipline, the last thing short of compulsion, would be the cane. In some cases, however, it would be absolutely necessary to use it. But he would only use it himself, and only for the more serious offences. He preferred to appeal to the common sense of the boys, especially the elder ones.... Provision would be made for athletic sports. He also hoped they would be able to turn out cricket teams to represent them. He then said a few words to parents themselves about giving children little holidays. The Chairman then spoke briefly on behalf of the Headmistress. (The girls school was abandoned in 1885. As both schools were under the same roof only one endowment could be got from the Government, and this was insufficient to keep them going without incurring debt. - The Chronicle, 1899). The Oirignal School Roll in January 1881 before the School’s opening day (RGS Chronicle, 1899)
Ritamada: A gift spanning 50 years
On 21 June 1971 Ritamada House was gifted to The Rockhampton Grammar School. (Extract from The Capricornus, 1971) “Certain events contribute significantly to determining the course of a school’s history, some of them originating from within the school, and some from without. For two such momentus events to occur within the space of six months is a rare occurance, but this is exactly what has made 1971 a most remarkable year for Rockhampton Grammar School.
from one of the scholars of Opening Day, 1881, gifted to the school by his son, Mr Robert Mackay Brown. No one can know just how important “Ritamada” will become to the school, as the potential uses to which a 70 acre beach-front property may be put may never be exhausted. There is, however, no doubt that its role will be of great significance.” Picture circa 1940s
......The second event came from outside the school, and occurred on June 21st (the first event was that RGS acquired its own plane on January 21st). I refer of course to the handing over of the Robert Gamble Brown Memorial gift of Ritamada House - a magnificent and generous inheritance
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RGS in 2021 RGS student leaders - 2021 Secondary School
Harshitha Peddireddy Captain
Angus Johansen Captain
Ruby Burnham Vice Captain
Riley Denham Vice Captain
Primary School - Student Leaders Year 6 RGS Primary Student Leaders (pictured clockwise from top left) Tyson Carlos Riya Chakravarthy Archie Clifford Grace Francis Jade Harmsworth Hayley McCamley Eddie Newell Vidath Wedisinghe
Top marks for School Dux RGS 2020 internal and external dux Sansuka De Silva was one of only 30 students in Queensland to receive the highest possible ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) of 99.95. The ATAR scores replaced the previous OP system. Sansuka, who attended RGS from Year 7, is now based in Melbourne studying medicine at Monash University. The RGS VET (Vocational Education Training) programme also continued to impress with 92% of students receiving VET qualifications. The State average was 63.6%.
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WEDDING Kirrilly Haynes and Lachlan Hoch Kirrilly (RGS 2010) and Lachlan (RGS 2011) were married at Yeppoon on 6 February. The wedding party included Lachlan’s brother and sister, Cormac (RGS 2011) and Mikeeley (RGS 2015) along with Matthew Learmonth (RGS 2011).
ENGAGEMENT
BABY
Frances Kelly and Jeremy Day
Kerry and Jack Rolfe
Frances Kelly (RGS 2011) and Jeremy Day (RGS 2011).
Kerry (nee Feddersen, RGS 2011) and Jack Rolfe (RGS 2011).
“Since graduating from RGS in 2011, we try to visit the Whitsundays (Whitehaven Beach in particular) every year as it is our favourite place. Last year our boat trip around the islands with 10 of our closest friends was postponed 3 times due to COVID... but Jeremy surprised me with a “low key” getaway to Hamilton Island as a make up trip while we waited for the real thing. He had actually booked us a week at Qualia and proposed on an early morning trip to Whitehaven - sneaky photographer pretending to be a sunbaking tourist included... Our closest friends weren’t there to witness it but it was the most amazing day regardless. We are getting married this year - two weeks after our 10 year anniversary!” - Frances
Kerry and Jack welcomed their daughter Olivia who was born on 31 October 2020. The Rolfes live in the Springsure district.
(Since graduating from RGS Frances is a lawyer and Jeremy is a doctor)
VALE Jack Derrington
John (Jack) Derrington (6 May 1927 - 6 October 2020) Jack Derrington was a student at RGS in 1942 and 1943. Jack often remained in contact with the School and was a regular at the School’s ANZAC Day Service, assisting RGS Past Students’ Association executive members lay a wreath to remember our past students who have served our country in past wars. Jack also spent over 50 years working tirelessly as a Legatee for Legacy.
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The Rockhampton Grammar School Archer Street, Rockhampton Qld 4700 P 07 4936 0600 | W www.rgs.qld.edu.au | E paststudents@rgs.qld.edu.au CRICOS Provider No. 00507F