Quarterly Capricornus
VOL 36. No.4. December 2020/January 2021
2021 SCHOOL LEADERS
STUDENT TRANSITIONS
FIRST YEAR OF SCHOOL
Meet the incoming RGS School Captains Page 2
Students provide an insight into preparing for a new year of school Page 12
RGS Prep students share their fun memories of the 2020 school year Page 18
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
PRIMARY BOOK WEEK
YEAR 1 SAFETY
YEAR 7 DRAMA
YEAR 11 ART
YEAR 12 FAREWELL
Colourful Characters
Coastguard Visit
Outdoors Drama
Visiting Artist Inspires
School is Out
The RGS Primary School celebrated Book Week in Term 4. Guest readers entertained the students in the RGS Library throughout the week before the event culminated in a colourful Book Week Parade, where characters jumped out of the pages of the students’ favourite books. It was great to see the RGS Primary teachers also dressing for the occasion in this annual celebration of literacy.
Year 1 studies on the ocean became real life during the term when the Rockhampton and Yeppoon Coast Guard visited the students to talk about boat safety, the role of the Coast Guard and the special features of their vessel (which was parked in the Primary School drop-off/ pick-up zone). It was a great reminder for the students to remember their water safety heading into the summer months.
When Year 7 Drama classes can’t take the stage in the RGS Theatre due to the sitting of Year 12 external exams, the show must go on! Lugging around stage props and costumes, the students performed the drama pieces in the picturesque grounds of The Rockhampton Grammar School.
Central Queensland visual artist Peta Lloyd recently shared her creative talents with RGS Year 10 and 11 Art students. Peta’s art transforms everyday stories through the skilful marriage of collected materials, folded pages and prints. Peta introduced the students to mark making, experimental collage, stitching and book folding.
RGS Year 12 students celebrated their last day in class with a walkthrough, cheered on by the School’s Year 7 to Year 11 students, and staff. It was then back to the books for one last round of study in preparation for their inaugural ATAR external exams. Congratulations to all our Year 12 students and good luck with your future endeavours.
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 co-curricular activity please contact Todd Wells, Director of Co-Curricular on 0488 778 300 or email twells@rgs.qld.edu.au
DR PHILLIP MOULDS HEADMASTER
Inside Looking ahead to the future
SCHOLARSHIP
With 2020 behind us, it is time to look forward to what lies ahead in 2021 and beyond.
The recent Youth Survey 2020 undertaken by Mission Australia surveyed over 25,800 students from across Australia. The top three personal concerns of participants in the survey were identified as: coping with stress (43%); mental health (34%) and body image (33%), while the issue identified as the most important facing Australia today was equity and discrimination (40%). It is reassuring to know that our School is focused on preparing and supporting students to face these challenges and concerns. We do this through a myriad of programmes and activities such as Safeguarding Children and Global Studies. We also invest in the provision of support services including through the great work of our Learning Enrichment Centre and dedicated psychology team. While there is no perfect formula, we will continue to strive to equip students, as best we can, for the fears and challenges that face their generation.
COMMUNITY
A key challenge that we all continue to grapple with is how to balance the immeasurable benefits that technology brings to our lives with the negative impacts on mental health and wellbeing – and what role our School should play in educating and monitoring technology use.
SCHOLARSHIP
Social media is a particularly challenging space and one that continues to be an area of immense discussion. When I speak with parents and carers, mental health and wellbeing and the role that technology plays in this is frequently the number one area of concern. Whether it be the impact on self-esteem, cyber-bullying, disrupted sleep patterns or their child’s “digital reputation” – it is a difficult space and one that continues to rapidly evolve.
COMMUNITY
The Board of Trustees, the Leadership Team and some RGS classes have recently viewed the documentary, The Social Dilemma. The documentary examines the depth of information that social media companies hold, their business models and the way in which information is used, often unbeknown to the end user. It is currently available on Netflix and I encourage you to watch it if you are able.
20 Inter-house Sport
In 2021, the School will be further considering the impact of social media, and the role the School can play in informing and supporting students to make informed decisions in their use of technology. Discussions on this will commence with the Parents Association in early 2021. I also look forward to the introduction of “Stymie” as an additional way to further strengthen the safe and supportive environment that RGS provides for our students. Through Stymie, students can make notifications about cyberbullying, bullying, illegal activity, depression, anxiety and self-harm – safely and anonymously. Further information will be provided to students and families in Term 1 regarding this practical and useful programme.
24 Never give up
3 ATAR 2020
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 ©2020 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 Fax 07 4936 0701 Registrar@rgs.qld.edu.au
Editorial & Advertising Ms Sue Moloney, Director Development and Communications 07 4936 0668 smoloney@rgs.qld.edu.au Mrs Rachael McDonald 07 4936 0776 rmcdonald@rgs.qld.edu.au
How did RGS students fare in ATAR?
4 P rimary Anniversary
RGS Primary celebrates 30 years
PAST STUDENTS
From player to administrative leader
7 Leading the world game COMMUNITY
9 We are all different
A diverse community at RGS
14 Students STEAM ahead
Students work through challenges
17 Adapting to change
Year 10 students push ahead
SPORTS
Primary students make a splash
22 RGS photo gallery
THE FINAL WORD
Making the little things in life count
On the cover: RGS Internal Dux Sansuka De Silva is now looking beyond the school gates to his future career aspirations. See Page 3. Picture by Orin Lucke
Mrs Ashleigh Harvey 07 4936 0667 aharvey@rgs.qld.edu.au
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LEADERSHIP
2021 School Captains Meet our Rockhampton Grammar School Captains for 2021 – what does RGS mean to them and what are their hopes and aspirations for 2021.
VICE CAPTAIN
CAPTAIN
CAPTAIN
VICE CAPTAIN
Riley Denham
Angus Johansen
Harshitha Peddireddy
Ruby Burnham
A student at RGS since Prep, and someone who loves to keep active playing rugby league, running and cycling, Riley hopes to further development his leadership skills in 2021.
Angus calls his family grain property in Dixalea home when he’s not boarding at RGS – a journey he started in Year 7 and followed in the footsteps of his sisters Isabelle (RGS 2015) and Imogen (RGS 2016).
Ruby started at RGS as a Year 7 boarder from her family’s organic beef property, 60km west of Monto. Sister Lily graduated in 2019, brother Knox is in Year 10 in 2021 and she has a younger brother at home.
“I have the opportunity to represent and be the voice for our School,’’ Riley said.
At School you can find Angus playing cricket, tennis, soccer and rugby, and watching movies in the dorm, while when he’s home there’s more time for water skiing and fishing.
Born in Tadepalli, India, Harshitha arrived at RGS in Prep and her brother Prahas will be in Year 5 in 2021. Harshitha’s parents are doctors, along with many of her extended family, but her own studies are currently heading in the direction of international politics.
“It also gives me the opportunity to encourage and inspire students to work together and be the best they can be. “On a personal note, I’d really like to see more participation in cocurricular activities, like more come and try days for different sports. Even if you think it might not be your thing, then it would be great to have the opportunity to give something a go.” Riley said 2020 had been very challenging for all students, particularly the Seniors. “I look forward to working with Angus, Harshitha and Ruby to ensure that RGS continues to be the best school in CQ and that every student has a great and memorable year.”
“I am excited to use this opportunity (as School Captain) to represent Grammar as well as be a role model for other students, academically as well as by being involved in as many school events as I possibly can,’’ Angus said. “I hope to create many events and activities for younger grades, just as we got to experience when we first arrived at the School. “I also want to help create a greater sense of community at the School by getting as many people involved in everything we do.”
Riley’s family has a proud RGS connection with sister Stacey graduating in 1997 and his niece Gabrielle enters Year 5 (2021).
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Outside of the classroom Harshitha enjoys music and public speaking – and dabbles in writing stories and poetry. “I feel this leadership position is a very necessary step to introduce me into the world of leadership and problem solving as well as catering to the needs of a varied public and group of students,’’ Harshitha said. “I have lots of ideas and thoughts that I hope will be able to leave Grammar even better for the future. “I would like for Grammar to become a more accepting student body and I believe we can be more involved in the general Rockhampton community. “I would also like for Grammar to become a greener place through composting and recycling but also with healthier habits (computer use, eating habits, etc). This could be with recycling paper, doing regular clean-ups and starting waste and composting habits in the Primary School. “But maybe my biggest goal would be for the School to listen to its students. The captains aren’t the only ones with the best ideas or the most reasonable ones. Everyone would have different perspectives and thoughts that are beneficial to the community and I would like everyone to be a part of change and get involved otherwise this world can’t keep a-turning.”
“As a family, we have a passion to create positive change through the things we love and the communities we come from to embrace growth for a better future,’’ said Ruby, who also has interests in art and fashion. “This leadership opportunity means that I can be the voice of RGS. This opportunity gives me a chance to make all voices heard and to embrace the already diverse community at RGS. I have a chance to give back and leave an ever lasting impact on the community that has given so much to me and my peers,’’ Ruby said. “I have many hopes and aspirations for RGS in 2021 which I wish to bring to life with the help of my cohort. I hope to create an environment which embraces all unique qualities in every individual, as well as to give students confidence, motivation, empowerment and encouragement to endeavour in personal growth. Most importantly, I aspire to leave a legacy where all students feel accepted and valued within the community.”
NEWS
“....this year has also allowed me to constantly remind myself of how fortunate I am to attend RGS.” Sansuka De Silva
generation to read and learn about,” he said. “However, this year has also allowed me to constantly remind myself of how fortunate I am to attend RGS. “With the Seniors of 2020 being the first group to go through the ATAR system, the COVID-19 pandemic only added further challenges and hurdles for us to face. Despite this, the staff guided us through difficult circumstances by providing ongoing assistance, commitment and dedication.” He said “balance” was also a key to his success this year, still allowing time to follow his passions in music and public speaking. “You have to find the time to do things you enjoy,’’ Sansuka said. Subject results from the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) were released along with Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks (ATAR) through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). The ATAR system, where students sit subjectspecific external exams, replaced the Overall Position (OP) system in 2020.
ATAR Achieving goals Rockhampton Grammar School Dux Sansuka De Silva is now awaiting university offers to study medicine after being one of only 30 students across Queensland to attain the highest possible ATAR result.
With Year 12 students across Queensland receiving their final results, The Rockhampton Grammar School has continued to show why it is Central Queensland’s best performing school. RGS students performed exceptionally well with RGS School Dux Sansuka De Silva receiving a top ATAR ranking of 99.95. Sansuka De Silva was one of 30 students in Queensland to achieve the highest ATAR of 99.95.
Sansuka, who joined RGS in Year 7, hopes to study medicine in 2021 and was one of only 30 students across Queensland to receive a perfect score. “It is undeniable that this year is one that will stay in the history books for the next
Of the students who shared their ATAR results with the School, RGS reported that 46.27% students received an ATAR 90 plus, 67.16% received an ATAR of 80 plus and 89.55% received an ATAR of 70%.* (* percentages of students who elected to share their ATAR results) Rockhampton Grammar School Headmaster Dr Phillip Moulds commended the students, staff and families for their collaborative work in achieving these results in the first year of ATAR and wished the Year 12 graduates all the best in pursuing careers beyond school. “Scores are only one measure of student success. There are so many varied opportunities offered at The Rockhampton Grammar School. Not all require high ATARs and it is pleasing to see the wide spread of interests pursued by our students,’’ Dr Moulds said. RGS Head of Secondary School Academics Ms Reniece Carter said the results were yet another powerful example of our students’ commitment to learning in what was a very challenging year. More ATAR news to come in our Term 1 2021 edition.
THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY / 3
SCHOLARSHIP
RGS Primary celebrates 30 years In the past 30 years the RGS Primary School has grown from a three-class school, with very few students, to a School with over 450 students and modern facilities. One past student reflects on RGS Primary in a different time.
The year was 1990 and the RGS Primary School was officially opened.
Katie whispers that she was not academic “at all” at school.
There were three classrooms, located above the current Prep classrooms, and where Prep students now learn was the students’ undercover area.
“I was sporty. I just loved sport.”
Mr Steve Ryan was Principal/Teacher and there were two other teachers. The classes were a combined Year 5, 6, 7, a combined Year 3 and 4 and a combined Year 1 and 2 class. Katie Zahnleitner (now Mauger) was in Year 7 in 1990. That same year she received the Primary School Citizenship Award.
Katie Mauger is joined by the RGS Primary Students Leaders to cut the anniversary cake.
“We had one building. That was the whole Primary School,’’ said Katie, who is now Principal at Valkyrie State School and in 2021 will have three children at RGS (Brianna in Year 11, Lee in Year 10 and Jade in Year 7). “There wasn’t very many Year 1s, but they were very cute and their uniforms were still the same as they are today.” There were chalkboards, big computers and students relied on encyclopedias instead of the internet.
Katie also takes pride in seeing what her once small school has become. “What stands out for me is the pride you must have in your school,’’ Katie said. “There’s not one piece of litter, you wear your uniform with pride and that’s a real credit to the School. You walk in and it just feels beautiful. It feels like you love to be here. Keep it up.”
SCHOLARSHIP
IN THE NEWS Sharing, caring and inspiration helped shape our students during Term 4. From listening to advice from inspirational speakers, to being guided by talented artists and gaining insights from fellow students, the learning opportunities were endless.
Online meeting with Stuart Diver
Art inspiration
New Boarder Orientation
Year 6 students missed the opportunity to meet Stuart Diver in person this year, but thankfully he could still share his inspirational story – online. Stuart’s message focused on positivity and the importance of remaining in direct contact with people rather than through social media. Stuart said one of the first things he appreciated after coming out of the Thredbo landslide rubble in 1997 was human contact. Stuart also spoke about the need to ask for help when you need it, particularly with respect to your mental health. He said there is no shame in seeking help.
RGS Year 10 Visual Arts student Savithna Jayasekara joined the Department of Education’s “In residence” programme, supported by the Queensland Art Gallery/ Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), at the start of the Term 4 holidays. Interested students had to submit a written and practical response to Abdul Abdullah’s art work. Students then had the opportunity to work, via online, with Abdul to further enhance their creative flair. Abdul Abdullah is an Australian multi-disciplinary artist
The RGS Boarding Orientation programme provided the perfect opportunity for the new 2021 boarding cohort to gain a better insight into their new school. The students, with invaluable support from RGS Boarding staff and Year 11 students, attended information sessions, joined in group activities, had plenty of fun at Ritamada and most importantly had the opportunity to meet some new friends before they start their boarding journey in 2021.
ROCKHAMPTON GLADSTONE YEPPOON
4921 0399
www.luptonstewart.com.au
CREATING CONFIDENT SMILES
FOR PATIENTS OF ALL AGES
PAST STUDENTS
Daniel Krause: Planning for Change Gold Coast-based Daniel Krause (RGS 2011) was this year named the Young Planner of the Year at the Queensland Awards for Planning Excellence for his award winning planning in the Solomon Islands.
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 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
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 crossdisciplinary 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.” In receiving the Young Planner of the Year award, Daniel was not only praised for his town planning skills, but also for his advocacy work, presenting at conferences, mentoring students at Bond University, and acting as a role model for the next generation of young planners. Read more about Daniel’s story, and that of other RGS past students, in the February 2021 edition of The Grammarian.
Experience has no substitute
Source: 2021 Good Universities Guide. CRICOS Provider Code 00117J
There’s a place for you at JCU
5 STARS FOR: Full-time Employment Skills Development Student Support
jcu.edu.au
PAST STUDENTS
Q&A James Johnson 1994 (Year 7) James Johnson 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 player dreams, James is now Chief Executive Officer of the Football Federation of Australia.
“ My parents always allowed me to do sport but were strict ensuring I was doing school at the same time.” James Johnson
CQ: What is it about football for you? JJ: It was more than just a sport. It was the community. We were very involved with the club. 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.
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. It’s great but it’s also extremely consuming. There’s no such thing as a 9 to 5 job in sports administration.
CQ: You moved to Brisbane for your football, going on to represent the Australian youth team (Joeys), what was it like being a young athlete?
CQ: What excites you about your role as CEO of the Football Federation of Australia?
JJ: 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 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, but I think I learnt a lot from the sporting field and transferred that into the classroom. Things like making sure I could manage time and that I could work with people. The softer skills.
CQ: What was it like moving from being a player to an administrator? JJ: 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 never really stops. You’re administrating
JJ: 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. 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). * James played with the Australian Junior football team, the Joeys, before continuing his playing career in Vietnam. Sidelined by injury James started looking at sports administration. He worked with the Asian Football Federation in Malaysia before joining FIFA in Switzerland and then moving to Manchester City in England.
THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY / 7
The Rockhampton Grammar School Production of
A Musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film Original Music and Lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman Book by Julian Fellowes New Songs and Additional Music and Lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe Co-Created by Cameron Mackintosh Adapted by iTheatrics under the supervision of Timothy Allen McDonald Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia). All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia.
Pilbeam Theatre 26 – 27 February Dial ‘n’ charge 4927 4111 www.seeitlive.com.au Tickets on sale from 4 January
COMMUNITY
Diversity: Remember that everyone deserves love and acceptance Differences connect RGS COVID-19 disrupted Harmony Day earlier this year, but a group of RGS students and staff were still determined to show our School community that every individual can contribute to a better place. Year 11 student Sithmi Konara said unity is the key to surviving this world full of chaos and uncertainty. “A small seed of acceptance, when watered by love and compassion, grows into a thriving, united society where everyone feels comfortable to live freely,’’ Sithmi said
Ben Scott (Year 12) also recognises the diversity at RGS as something that can be celebrated and acknowledged – whether that be cultures, abilities, religions or sexualities. Sansuka De Silva (Year 12) said our differences are what makes us all so connected, especially after getting through a difficult year.
Watch the video at rgs.qld.edu. au/news
“We saw life pain and suffering, but equally from this darkness rose beautiful moments of genuine human connection,’’ Sansuka said.
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COMMUNITY
RGS Year 4 students sort all things recycling with Council representative Sharyn Lowth.
Recycling: Helping the environment Recycling is more complicated than first meets the eye, but a group of RGS Year 4 students are now experts after researching their environmental impact this year.
There is more to recycling than meets the eye. RGS Year 4 students created their own Recycling Programme in 2020, working with Rockhampton Regional Council staff over the past year with a focus on sustainability. The initiative linked with their unit called “How can humans reduce their environmental impact and become sustainable heroes?”. The students identified different processed materials and how they can, or can’t, biodegrade and the effects they have on the environment. Students also looked at how these materials are useful but then how we can better use these materials to ensure we are being sustainable.
Changes were then made within the classroom – going from one general waste bin to: 1
General Waste Bin
2
Recycling Bin
3
Reuse Paper Cox
4
Soft Plastics
5
Food Scraps.
From one general waste area to five! The students then used their recycling knowledge for their persuasive writing task. The theme was, “Persuade to Protect”, where students designed and created an advertisement to persuade their chosen audience to make one change to improve their recycling habits and be more environmentally friendly.
Through their links with Rockhampton Regional Council, the students looked at the three Rs – Reduce, Recycle and Reuse.
RECYCLING TIPS 1. S ticky Notes – tear off the sticky part and throw in the bin. The remaining paper goes in recycling. 2. M agazines – tear off the front glossy cover and throw in the bin. Recycle the remaining paper. 3. Clean out recycling containers. 4. M ilk Lids/Plastic Lids – collect in a plastic bottle. Only lids the size of your fist can go in recycling on its own. 5. S eparate lids from the bottom of the container (glass jars). 6. S quish the tin lids inside the cans (squish the top part of the can so it stays inside). 7. A erosol cans – completely empty before recycling. 8. Scrunch test for soft plastics. 9. E -waste free drop off at the Waste Management Facility. DO NOT put into the bins.
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WE SEE YOU SUCCEEDING RESOURCES, ALTERNATIVE PATHWAYS AND ADVICE FOR STUDENTS THINKING ABOUT STUDY IN 2021 P_AD_200089_Sept
cqu.edu.au/highschool
TAFE AND UNIVERSITY QUALIFICATIONS
CRICOS: 00219C | RTO: 40939
THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY / 11
SCHOLARSHIP
“ Don’t do your homework when it’s due but when you get it.”
Words of support: (from left) Fiza, Neal, Ava, Elijah, Vikram and Renae.
Renae (Year 7)
TRANSITIONS A student insight Every year students are required to transition, whether that’s between year levels in Primary and Secondary or transitioning from Primary to Secondary. What were some of those questions you wanted to ask someone who has already walked in your shoes? RGS Year 7 students gave our Year 6 students an insight into Secondary School while the Year 10 students had some questions to ask about how different it would be in Year 11.
Fiza Kaushal (Year 6)/ Ava Roche (Year 7) Fiza: Was it like a big adjustment from Year 6 to Year 7? Ava: Coming from the Primary school it was pretty easy because it was your school and you knew your way around, but all the teachers were so kind and Mrs Rundle made it so easy transitioning (into Secondary School). Fiza: How much homework do you have? Ava: I’m going to tell you the truth. There isn’t like no homework but there isn’t a massive huge amount. You will need to dedicate some time to do it but you don’t have every single afternoon working for hours and hours. Fiza: What was your favourite part about moving to high school? Ava: Probably meeting all my class and all the new people.
Vikram Chauhan (Year 6)/ Renae Palmer (Year 7) Vikram: What’s the hardest subject? Renae: For me it was maths because I’m not the best at maths. I definitely had to ask my parents for more help than what I did in Primary School and my teachers helped me a lot more. Vikram: What’s different between high school and primary? Renae: It was hard adapting. You have to change every 40 minutes for different subjects, and you get a lot more homework than what you do in Primary School. I try to do a bit each day. Don’t do your homework when it’s due but when you get it. Vikram: Are the people nice in high school? Renae: They are pretty nice and I’ve definitely made some good friends. It was extremely different to start with (being from another primary school) and I only knew one girl. I knew 10 teachers from my old school and now I have a whole new school full of new teachers. Definitely be nice and kind to everyone and go out there and sit with different people.
Neal Dhamsania (Year 6)/ Elijah Girdler (Year 7) Neal: How much homework is there compared to Primary and is there time for afternoon activities? Elijah: If you put in enough time for homework you can still do your outdoor activities later. There’s not that much homework in Year 7 to be honest. Neal: Are there any competitions in high school? Elijah: In Term 1 we have the swimming carnival. We play Kahoot! in class (Kahoot!, is used for study, is a set of questions that the class answers on their computers). There’s lots of different co-curricular activities. A lot of them are after school. Neal: How much stuff do you bring to school every day? Elijah: We have Thursday sport and PE. Thursday and Friday are my busiest day. You take your bag, your laptop bag and your PE bag (with a change of clothes….and swim gear at times). And also take anything else for after school sport. You get a cramp in your back after a while.
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SCHOLARSHIP
Jett Grundy (Year 10)/ Kaitlyn Donges (Year 11)
“ I have loved the assistance and guidance from teachers. They really just want you to succeed and they only do what’s best for you. The help really does make a big difference.” Kaitlyn (Year 11)
Lily Roopnarinesingh (Year 10)/ Lily Morrison (Year 11) Lily R: With the ATAR system do you feel like you had enough support from teachers and enough information to help you prepare? Lily M: I definitely think we did. All of the sessions in the Auditorium with the teachers and Heads of Years gave us a lot of support and if you need to chat with them it’s really important that you do and ask them any questions that you have before you get overwhelmed and worried about it. Lily R: So did you have somebody come and talk to you about the whole ATAR system and what you needed to do? Lily M: We had some staff on the Senior Leadership Team as well as the Heads of Year and talked to us about what was expected which really helped. Lily R: Did you feel like you had enough support in choosing the right subjects for your chosen career and was there enough information for you to choose a potential career option? Lily M: Yes there was. We had a lot of coursing nights and sessions and also had set plan interviews with the Heads of Year and Mrs Hadwen (Careers Adviser) to make sure the subjects we do accommodate for the career pathways we want to do into.
Jett: How has the workload affected you in Year 11? Kaitlyn: It was a bit of a change from Year 10. A step up. I knew what I was in for going into Year 11, that it would be harder, but you don’t really know what you’re in for until you get there. It can make two and a half hours of Prep (homework) every night worth it. I found you adjust quite quickly. It is harder to balance homework and study. Jett: Any tips for Year 11? Kaitlyn: With studying, start to revise a fair while before your exam. You’ll have to sacrifice a few things. Some people seem to do well at school naturally, but for me I’ve had to sit down and knuckle out some things. Jett: Have you enjoyed Year 11? Kaitlyn: I have enjoyed Year 11, but I’m not sure if that came from coming to a new school or just in general. I like the atmosphere of the school. Everyone has started to take in what they need to for the next few years. I have loved the assistance and guidance from teachers. They really just want you to succeed and they only do what’s best for you. The help really does make a big difference. Use the help you can get and make the most of it.
Amelia Marks (Year 10)/ Spencer Smallacombe (Year 11) Amelia: Are there any differences from Year 10 to Year 11? Spencer: The main one for me was that you get to select your subjects and work directly towards what you want to do after school. I have an idea of what I want to do, so I find it easier to stay focused and motivated to work harder. You might be lucky enough to have spare lessons, use them wisely Amelia: How have you found it juggling schoolwork and co-curricular sports? Spencer: I’ve learnt to get in and get my work done early, ask for help and make your school work a priority. This way you don’t have the added stress of not getting work done on time or deadlines hanging over you. I train most afternoons and some early mornings so I try and eat well and get some good sleep. Amelia: Do the teacher expectations of you change in Year 11? Spencer: Yes. They expect you to work more by yourself. There is an expectation that you will ask for help if you need it. The teachers are there to help you. They expect good behaviour and for the seniors to set an example for the younger students. THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY / 13
Exploring STEAM Students drive decisions RGS Year 4 teacher Ms Brooke Graff this year embarked on a RGS Fellowship project to explore the Digital and Design Technologies curriculum. The STEAM project provided an avenue for cross-curricular, innovative learning for the RGS Primary School students.
RGS Year 4 teacher Ms Brooke Graff is on an exciting learning journey, just like her students. A recipient of the RGS 2020 Special Project Fellowship, Ms Graff wanted to extend her exploration of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) in the Primary School and help make the process easier for students.
Ms Brooke Graff
Ms Graff’s 4G class engaged with the RGS Design Thinking Process, allowing students opportunities to consider how solutions are created and used in the future. Students identified the benefits and risks of creating solutions in a well-supported environment, using critical and creative thinking throughout the learning journey, with possible short term and long term impacts on their design solution. Ms Graff said the Design Projects linked different curriculum areas to create innovative learning opportunities, demonstrating both the
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students’ knowledge and understanding of the content and their ability to share and demonstrate this knowledge in a meaningful way. “As the students progressed through each different design project, their engagement and confidence to manipulate appropriate technologies (materials, components and equipment) and to use the design success criteria became a more fluid process,’’ Ms Graff said. “Being given the opportunity to explore the Digital and Design Technologies curriculum has provided an avenue for cross curricular and innovative learning to occur for our students.” Ms Graff said students were at the forefront of using their collaborative ideas to bring their learning to life. “They experience the challenges first-hand and work as teams to work through these challenges,’’ Ms Graff said.
SCHOLARSHIP
STUDENT INSIGHTS Hatcher Cook I enjoyed the Design Project where we had to create a game. The problem was: Students spend too much time on electronic devices. We had to create a game that did not use any electronics and could be played with other people. I enjoyed this project because my team and I had to continue to make adjustments to ensure the game was fair. I learnt that we must work as a team for the project to be successful.
Freya Weigall My favourite Design Project was where we got to design a costume for the EV3 and to code it to track The First Fleet journey. The problem we had to solve was: Students don’t find the value in learning about the history of The First Fleet and find it boring. I enjoyed this project because I got to use my creative and intellectual skills to design, create and code our EV3. It was challenging having to code the EV3 because we had to get the precise number of rotations to ensure we didn’t go over the Canary Islands. I have learnt more ways to be social because I needed to collaborate with my team members and also compromise when working in our team.
Chloe Patterson
Year 4 students worked as a team to tackle various challenges.
“Students can use their knowledge taught in previous lessons to be creative, innovative thinkers. They can bounce ideas and build resilience. This project provided a safe learning environment for students to remove their fear of failure. As the students continually evaluated their ideas against the design success criteria, they judged the suitability of their project, informing them of the next step in the process. This created a flexible, creative and collaborative environment in the classroom.” This learning approach also sparked a new perspective for Ms Graff. “I have seen the students in a different light, from having to collaborate to showing interest in leadership and working on resilience when things seemed challenging,’’ Ms Graff said. “Seeing their excitement for their projects – not only to design and create their own, but to also listen and view the others has been an eye opener. The groups are given the
My favourite Design Project was where we got to create a game because the problem was: Students spend too much time on their electronic devices. I enjoyed it because my team had so many designs we thought of that we could use. We faced a lot of challenges, especially drawing the difficult designs, but we over came them all. I learnt how to work with different people and how to control myself when difficult situations arose.
same information but to see this information transform into incredible and different prototypes has allowed me to see different perspectives on the same criteria.” Ms Graff said once the RGS Design Thinking Process was trialled in the classroom, the process was introduced to the Primary staff. “It is wonderful to see staff eager to be a part of trialling what has been created already and to provide valuable feedback on how we can refine to create preferred futures in this curriculum area,’’ Ms Graff said.
“ I have seen the students in a different light, from having to collaborate to showing interest in leadership and working on resilience when things seemed challenging.” Ms Brooke Graff
Ms Graff plans to continue exploring and building in the Design and Digital Technologies across the Primary curriculum to create meaningful, innovative learning opportunities for students. Looking forward Ms Graff hopes to pilot the programme on another year level to ensure the programme is providing the best outcomes for all students.
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COMMUNITY
Year 7 STEAM Starting new ideas
Year 7 students Hannah Hovey and Ben Baillie prepare to pitch their design solution.
THE CHALLENGE: The Secondary School outside areas need further improvements to allow for different play, social and eating spaces. These areas need to reflect where students would enjoy using during their break times. RGS STEAM Leader Mrs Alana Mikkelsen explains. A key focus this year for STEAM was finalising the RGS Design Thinking Process. This process has been researched and created for the flexibility of use in all classrooms from Primary into the middle years of the Secondary School. To ensure the process was both flexible and clear, it was again tested through the Term 4 and Year 7 STEAM project. In addressing the challenge, students had key constraints, one was a financial budget of $3000 to $5000 on a particular section of the design and the second had a sustainability element of “Recycle, Reuse, Reduce or Upcycle”. Step 1 – The project began with the Year 7 STEAM Starter Day. This day involved various local presenters that supported students to grow in key design elements, including skill sets of sketching and plasticine work as well as understanding the user of the space and how best to integrate sustainability elements within it. Students also attended a session with a local Darumbal Elder, Wade Mann. Wade imparted both how the aboriginal culture is sustainable through their stories, dance and art, as well as key game style
activities that assist in teaching the younger generation the skills to live off the land. This day brings a great start to the project and opens the creative door needed to solve the problem. Step 2 – The students immersed their learning into the project using the RGS Design Thinking Process. Each phase – Explore, Develop and Deliver ensured every team of students used their creative and innovative thinking skills through effective evaluation against design criteria to produce a viable solution. Step 3 – During the Showcase afternoon, the Year 7 students enthusiastically delivered their possible solutions for their key spaces. These solutions included a diverse range of seating spaces that were aesthetically pleasing and cool in temperature. One group’s solution was to create a student purpose zen garden using the front sloping hill in front of the Auditorium. The RGS STEAM project has continued to be a success and how this looks in the future will continue to evolve and ensure students at The Rockhampton Grammar School will grow in both character and scholarship for their future professions.
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COMMUNITY
“ There’s always going to be rough spots and you’re going to face bigger challenges in life.” Abbey
Abbey, who had planned to join the kayaking expedition, said she was pretty frustrated when COVID hit but she would rather stay safe. “There will be more opportunities for me in the future,’’ Abbey said. “There’s always going to be rough spots and you’re going to face bigger things in life.” Charlie was ready to set sail in the Whitsundays this year. “What we did was still pretty good. I wasn’t disappointed at the time (when the trips were cancelled). Stuff happens and you just have to adjust,’’ Charlie said. Each student gained something different from the alternate Year 10 programme. Charlie “got pretty good at surfing” at Ritamada and enjoyed the service day, while Abbey particularly enjoyed the careers day. “I was able to map out where I want to go to university and what I want to study,’’ Abbey said.
Change: Learning to adapt
“It was a really helpful week. You had those days you could go out and have your fun, but then had to go into the classroom and focus on your future.” Charlie said it was just good to get out with everyone.
RGS Year 10 students have experienced an adventure this year, just not how they had planned at the start of 2020. The Outdoor Adventure, Challenge, Service and Preparation Programme, which includes overseas trips to China, Vietnam or New Zealand along with sailing, hiking and canoe adventures was stopped in its tracks by COVID-19. Determined to help the students connect with the key traits of the programme, an alternative programme was created embracing what we can offer in our Central Queensland backyard. Activities included a community service revegetation project with Capricornia Catchments, an adventure day at Ritamada, fun times around the Keppel Islands, careers advice and students received a reality check on the outcomes of road trauma. Year 10 students Abbey Mann and Charlie Bain were among the students who made the early decision to move on and adapt.
Both Abbey and Charlie are looking to the future and are firmly focused on 2021 plans and goals. “I just want to do well next year,’’ Abbey said. “I want to do more with my schooling to have a better chance at getting into university. I’ve had to change the way I learn during COVID. Online learning was difficult but you had to adapt and keep working through it.” Charlie is keeping positive, saying 2021 “hasn’t been the worst year”. “COVID came and we had to make adjustments. Online learning was quite different from being in the classroom. You couldn’t ask direct questions to teachers,’’ Charlie said. “I’ve learnt what I want to do out of school and have now set some goals. I just have to work hard at it next year and achieve those goals.”
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SCHOLARSHIP
“ I just loved EVERYTHING! Learning, playing with my friends, eating and making things. Sometimes Mr Hadwen even came to read FANTASTIC MR FOX!” Reggie Heppel
RGS Prep 2020: What we loved about our first year at School 2020 was a year that no students, teachers or parents expected. It was different. One thing that was still the same was a group of excited children exploring their first year of school. Here are some favourite memories from the RGS Preps of 2020. There are so many magic moments from Prep – for the students, parents and teachers. Finding just one special memory can sometimes be tricky. Below is a sample of some fun times in 2020: • The favourite thing with everyone was climbing on the rocks at Ritamada and building Pirate Ships. • The next best things were all of our trips – Dreamtime, Ritamada, Crocodile Farm and the visits of people to the school – police, Mrs Spark (lifesaving), dentist. • Cultural celebrations where parents came in and shared their culture, language, food, dance, songs, clothes and stories.
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• Science experiments – with Dr Moulds and in the classroom experiments. • Getting to know the school – climbing in the Secret Jungle Garden, having sneaky plays in the Year 1 playgrounds, visiting parents and siblings at school. • Last but not least was Jocelyn’s comment that every one agreed with was – I just love learning – its all about learning: learning to be a friend, learning how to share, to read to do our maths, to be kind. I love learning.
SCHOLARSHIP
SOPHIE KERR
ELISE ATTOKARAN
ZAHLI SKILTON
REGGIE HEPPELL
SAMUEL STANKE
MUNROE ANDERSON
“I like doing free play in our classroom.”
“I liked making dust bunnies with our Year 5 buddies.”
“I liked cooking last week when we made the owl ice-cream from The Gruffalo.”
“I just loved EVERYTHING! Learning, playing with my friends, eating and making things. Sometimes Mr Hadwen even came to read FANTASTIC MR FOX!”
“My favourite thing in Prep was learning how to read.”
“I liked learning how to read and write in my classroom. When I go home I like do lots of schoolwork too!”
ASHER NOIJ
ANNIE PATTERSON
BEN GIBBS
FLETCHER DEAVES
DAISY NEILSEN
LILA POTENT
“I liked doing our scrapbooks in class.”
“I liked the Book Week dress up.”
“Learning to throw the spear at Ritamada was my favourite thing at Prep this year. I hope I get to do it again in Year 1.”
“I liked learning how to make ‘Dancing Milk.”
“Going to PE was my favourite thing to do in Prep. We did lots of different activities in Duggan Hall.”
“I loved cooking in the Cooking room with my Mum. The cupcakes and rocky road were really yummy!”
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CO-CURRICULAR
Primary Swimming Age Champions 6 Years Girls
Mackenzie Sotelo
6 Years Boys Henry Houghton 7 Years Girls
Aria Caton
7 Years Boys Alexander Olive 8 Years Girls
Mackenzie Geddes
8 Years Boys Alexander Winslade 9 Years Girls
Keely Newell
9 Years Boys Jake Hodgetts/ Jordan Hodgetts 10 Years Girls Gabrielle Stewart 10 Years Boys Sid Ward 11 Years Girls Tazmyn McInnerney 11 Years Boys Kurt Lynch 12 Years Girls Layne Hodgetts 12 Years Boys Peyten Goudie
Touch and go for carnival The annual All Schools Touch Championships was given the green light early in Term 4 and RGS teams delivered in some competitive games. The RGS Open Girls team lead the School’s charge at this year’s All Schools Touch Championships at Whites Hill in Brisbane. The girls qualified for the finals, losing their quarter-final 6-5 against Brisbane State High. The U13 boys only had one loss in their pool games and just missed the finals. The U13 girls placed fifth in their pool, the U15 boys and girls placed third and fifth in their pools respectively while the Open boys placed sixth in their pool. RGS players of the Championship were: Bronson Carlos (U13 boys), Sophie Ramsay (U13 girls), Drewe Mace (U15 boys), Molly Cottam (U15 girls), Jack Barsby (Open boys) and Sophie Smith (Open girls).
AROUND THE GROUNDS Hockey
Futsal
Rowing
Amy Woods (Year 7) was selected in the Queensland Merit under 12 schoolgirls hockey team after the State Titles in Ipswich. Amy captained the Queensland team which placed equal second with Metropolitan East. Unfortunately, the nationals were unable to be held due to COVID-19.
RGS fielded a senior girls team in the Term 4 Secondary Schools Futsal competition. While the team did not qualify for the finals it was still great to see students try a new sport. The boys competition is scheduled to return in Term 1 2021.
The final rowing regatta for the year attracted 85 RGS rowers and some strong competition from Bundaberg schools. RGS rowers will continue training over the school holidays in preparation for January’s Summer Camp, featuring RGS rowers selected to attend the 2021 nationals.
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CO-CURRICULAR
Masters of the Black Belt RGS Taekwon-Do Club members secured their black belts in Term 4. Find out what it takes to become a black belt in taekwon-do.
What an exciting way to end the RGS Taekwon-Do year! After much hard work, four very passionate students achieved their 1st Degree Black Belt - Trivik Mago, Joel Brighton, Jane Brighton and Chelsea Wu. A Black Belt represents an achievement through years of dedication and commitment, symbolising hard work, selfdiscipline, and perseverance. Becoming a Black Belt instils a responsibility to one’s self and others. RGS Taekwon-Do Club Captain Joel aimed high to receive his Black Belt before graduating from Year 12. The Club is now looking forward to seeing Trivik, Chelsea and Jane in their new uniforms in 2021, ready to help the next generation of RGS Taekwon-Do students towards achieving their Black Belts.
Water Polo
Chess
Netball
Surf Lifesaving
RGS water polo teams finished runners-up in the Term 4 Rockhampton Water Polo Secondary Schools competition. The Senior Boys team lost their grand final against St Brendan’s College while the Junior Mixed team went down in a tight game against The Cathedral College. Secondary School water polo returns to the RGS Pool in Term 1, 2021. Congratulations also to RGS parent, Mrs Jodie McDonald, who received the volunteers award for her countless hours spent scoring poolside every Monday afternoon and evening.
RGS Primary and Secondary School chess players competed at the State Titles in Brisbane during Term 4. Up against some tough competition, playing schools that regularly compete in chess tournaments throughout the year, the RGS teams did the School proud. Team members were: (Primary) Neal Dhamsania (captain), Siyuan Liu, Tosibiletu Adegbija, Eric John Dennis; (Secondary) Oliver Dunn, Thayaghan Vignarajah, Jane Brighton and Kaviya Vignarajah.
The 2020 netball season wrapped up in Term 4. RGS Magic (Cup Division) and RGS Storm (Storm Division) teams represented the region at the annual Vicki Wilson State Championships at the State Netball Centre in Brisbane. While wins were tough to find, both teams improved throughout the championships.
If you’re hitting the Capricorn Coast beaches over the holidays you might see some familiar faces. Year 8 students Jack Lynch and Oscar Wemmerslager completed their Surf Rescue Certificate and are now qualified patrolling members of our beaches. Jack and Oscar are also now qualified to perform water safety duties for our younger nippers on Sunday mornings and at surf carnivals. The certificate recognises that the boys have the skills and knowledge of surf awareness, aquatic rescue operations and resuscitation in order to participate in lifesaving operations and act in the role of Water Safety Personnel.
With the regular RGS Netball Presentation Dinner unable to proceed this year, the club instead hosted an inter-house social competition at RGS followed by a BBQ and swim. The afternoon included both Primary and Secondary netballers.
Friday Sport
Show Cattle Team
Rugby Union
Equestrian
RGS Primary School rugby league teams featured in the 6A and 5A grand finals at Browne Park in Term 4. The 6A team lost to Frenchville, with Ben Mosby named RGS player of the final, while the 5A lost their final to Allenstown State School, with Tyson Carlos named best player for RGS.
The RGS Show Cattle Team 2020 season awards were presented in Term 4. In a very different looking season which included many online events, award winners were: Charli White (pictured) (RG1 Student of the Year), Greta Smith (Captains’ Choice) and Kaitlyn Hill (Coaches Choice).
RGS boys and girls rugby union players supported the Western Sevens in Emerald and the St Brendan’s College Sevens. In Emerald, The Open girls won their division, with Open boys, U13 girls and U15 girls finishing runners-up. At St Brendan’s the U15 girls won their grand final, with the Open boys and girls teams also reaching the finals.
RGS Primary and Secondary students competed in the Inter-School Gymkhana at Alton Downs in Term 4. Amelia Driscoll placed third in her year level. Amelia was also joined by Maddison Barsby, Molly Corrigan, Matilda Donaldson, Evangeline Donaldson and Samuel O’Rourke at the State Championships in Toowoomba.
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GALLERY
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The classroom for the Year 11 Outdoor Recreation kayak adventurers; Year 11’s Rhett Austin helps at the New Boarder Orientation; Harrison Delaney (Year 1) helps at the RGS Garden Club’s Christmas Stall; Year 8 Cadet Jessica Bate honours Remembrance Day; Nick Crawford at the Year 6 Walkthrough; Delving into the world of Art are Year 11 students (from left) Manya Chauhan, Ruby Burnham, Grace Clancy and Kourtney Draper; Kiaan Lekha (Year 2) creates a Gingerbread House masterpiece; Year 12’s Tahlia Fenlon in her last ride for the RGS Equestrian team.
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GALLERY
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Keeley Tzoutzias and Mitchell Martyn celebrate the end of 2020 while Roxy McDonald performs at the Year 12 Valedictory Dinner at CQUniversity; Riley Sullivan (Year 8) prepares to bat on the RGS pitch; Xavier Tan (Year 1) celebrates Book Week; Samantha George works through her titration experiment in Year 11 Chemistry; Prep students Jocelyn Nguyen, Mollie Swan, Hunter Mulry and Isabella Zaghini; RGS Dux recipients for 2020: Sansuka De Silva (Year 12), Cathleen Han (Year 11), Millicent Rayner (Year 10), Mahjuba Kohinoor (Year 9), Martha Dngle (Year 8), Alessandra Williams (Year 7) and
Neal Dhamsania (Year 6); RGS Show Cattle Team members and staff celebrate the Club’s 15th anniversary at the School’s Port Curtis Farm; Ella James (Year 11) dives in for a try at the All Schools Touch Championships in Brisbane.
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Q&A
The final word A new year arrives with new hopes and aspirations. We reflect on the previous year – what moments were wonderful and what didn’t work out as planned. Motivational Speaker Paul Hockey caught up with RGS Year 9 students in 2020. A man who lives by his motto “Never give up…never ever give up!”. Paul has many times found himself at the crossroads of life, just like our students. Paul on: Life at the “crossroads”. “In Year 9, to me, they (students) are at those crossroads. As teachers, parents, adults, we try to get the kids at this point so hopefully they become the adults we pray they will become – which of course is happy, healthy, positive, have self-confidence. “Some get lost on the road of life and the return journey can sometimes be a rocky road.
MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER
“I’m such an average guy. I’ve only got one arm, I’m not very smart, but I have a lot of determination and a positive attitude. That has always allowed me to achieve what I’ve wanted to achieve.
Paul lost his right arm to cancer when he was three-weeks-old. He has since become the first disabled person to climb Mount Everest from the North side.
“It’s attitude and a sense of spirit that matters. If you can have that self-belief and look after people around you, they will look after you. Always have a positive attitude.”
Paul Hockey
Paul on: “Living in the moment”. “You have to really live in the moment. You can’t get lost in the past and keep worrying about tomorrow. You have to deal with right now. “My message is bite sized pieces in the moment. Take care of the little things and the big things will take care of themselves. “You want to have a good moment then just take care of things today – make your bed, do your homework, polish your shoes, eat well, get some exercise, do something nice for someone, appreciate when someone does something nice for you, and just in that moment, in that day, just live in such a way doing little things and making the right choices tomorrow takes care of itself. It’s not really that hard. “It leads to a tomorrow you don’t have to worry about.” Paul on: Conquering “Mount Everest” (on 5 June 2005). “There was a dark side for me. A lot of people I loved passed away from cancer. When my mother got the terminal cancer, I just got this crazy idea that would raise money for kids’ cancer research in my mother’s name and also challenge my martial arts philosophies (harness energy, posture, breathe, movement). It’s basically living in the middle of now and making those correct choices and utilising that life force in a way to deal with just about anything. “Originally, I thought about swimming the English Channel, England to France. 24 / THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAPRICORNUS QUARTERLY
“Instead I climbed the North Face of Mount Everest. The top is the half way point. Once get there you realise you have to get back down. The problem on Everest is most people use everything they have to get to the summit and realise they don’t have anything left. “I spent about 30 minutes at the summit. I had one foot in Tibet and one foot in Nepal. I looked down at my boots and thought wow I am here. The experience was just as I had visualised. It was a magnificent view. I was exhausted and desperately trying to get energy back. I realised if stayed any longer I would have a lot of trouble getting down. “The Power of One – one more step, one more breath. If in doubt and you have nothing left just keeping living in the moment. “I realised what I had achieved sitting in a 4WD going from Base Camp in Tibet to go back to Kathmandu in Nepal. I was in a very bad way. I had lost 20kg, had frost bite, had blood on my lungs, I was exhausted, hadn’t had a proper shower for two months, had a beard. I was gross.”
“ Take care of the little things and the big things will take care of themselves.” Paul on: “Moving forward”. “Life’s hard. It’s not always easy. You will have doubts, you will have fears, you will feel like no one understands you, you will feel alone and feel you aren’t good enough. It’s human to feel that way. “We’re all human and all have those moments. Remember in those moments everyone also has those moments. We are all the same. We are all equal. “Try and make the right decisions as you go and don’t drop the ball. Don’t feel sorry for yourself, don’t be a victim. Be pragmatic. Take action. You are your own best friend and you are your own worst enemy. The choice is up to you. “This school has great students, it has great staff. I always leave here feeling the future is in good hands.”
SCHOLARSHIP
Speech Day awardees Congratulations students on all of your 2020 Academic and Co-curricular pursuits. You have grown in Character and Scholarship. A special congratulations to Internal Dux of the School Keyan Sansuka De Silva and all of our prize winners. Year 7 Business Enterprise and Management Alexander Connell
Outstanding Boy Boarder in Year 8 (The School Prize) Riley Sullivan
Design and Workshop Outstanding Girl Boarder in Year 8 Paige Emery (Colin and Pauline Ash Digital Technology Trophy) Alexander Connell Gracie Finger Drama General Improvement Kathleen Nguyen Riley Sullivan English General Proficiency Alessandra Williams Riley Sullivan Geography Macte Virtute Award Alessandra Williams Isabella Yore Health & Physical Education Kathleen Nguyen
Lachlan Wilson
The Rockhampton Grammar School History Past Students’ Alessandra Williams Association Prize for First in Year 8 Home Economics Martha Dingle Alessandra Williams Year 9 Eloise Lang Agriculture Japanese Amna Nadeem
(Wealwandangie Cup) Gabby Macrae
Mathematics Bronson Carlos
Business Enterprise and Management Sandee Music Alessandra Williams Weerasinghe Meegahawattage Science Design Paige Emery Ella McCauley Visual Arts Digital Technology Daniel Spiryagin Almarouf Olabode Outstanding Boy Drama Boarder in Year 7 (T. W. Conaghan Benjamin Baillie Family Trophy) Outstanding Girl Amelie Tripet Boarder in Year 7 English Lila Atkinson (Peter and Nina The Mace Family Vamvakaris Trophy) Shield Ava Tregea for Most Improved Essential English Year 7 Paris Corrigan Hannah Hovey General Proficiency Deepanshu Bhowmik Macte Virtute Award Taylor Brock Paige Emery The Rockhampton Grammar School Past Students’ Association Prize for First in Year 7 Alessandra Williams Year 8 Agriculture Ellie Wells Business Enterprise and Management Medha Koduri Design (Eggleshaw Trophy) Lachlan Wilson Digital Technology Lachlan Wilson Drama Trinity Hutt English Martha Dingle Essential English Clayton Besch Geography Martha Dingle Health & Physical Education Martha Dingle Health, Sport & Exercise Science Alice McDonald History Martha Dingle
Geography Tegbir Sandha
Health & Physical Education Timothy Wiltshire Health, Sport & Exercise Science Timothy Wiltshire History Mahjuba Kohinoor Home Economics Mathew He
Year 10 Accounting (Year 11 subject) (Birkbeck & Associates Award) Dominique Sleaford English (Mrs J. Wheatcroft Memorial Prize) Ella Milfull Essential English Alenna Whipp Geography (Year 11 subject) George Plumb Global Studies George Plumb Health & Physical Education Charli Harrison History Ella Milfull The Robert Mackay Brown History Prize Kiana Mueller Japanese Lily Roopnarinesingh
Music Max Morrison Science (The South Family Prize) Kaviya Vignarajah Essential Science Grady Wight Visual Arts Brooke Peckett Workshop Knox Burnham
Outstanding Boy Boarder in Year 9 (The School Prize) Japanese (Eggleshaw Thomas Arber Trophy) Outstanding Girl Martha Dingle Boarder in Year 9 Mathematics (The (Colin and Pauline Ash Westpac Trophy) Banking Corporation Alexandria Award) Appleton Abenaya The C.C. Boland Suntharavadivel Prize for Essential Mathematics General Improvement Ben Van Bael Jack Simmonds Music MacFarlane Prize for Trinity Hutt Leadership and Science (The Westpac Banking Corporation Award) Martha Dingle
Service Knox Burnham
Visual Arts Gracie Finger
Macte Virtute Award Knox Burnham Ella McCauley
General Proficiency Danielle Clark
Australian Defence Force 2020 Future Innovators Award Paarbon Siddiqui Australian Defence Force 2020 Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award Brianna Mauger C.A.R. Luck Prize Jacqueline Sleaford The Rockhampton Grammar School Past Students’ Association Prize for First in Year 10 Millicent Rayner Year 11 Agricultural Science (Jeffrey Reid Memorial Prize: Outstanding Achievement in Rural Subjects) Arnika Forrest Aquatic Practices Finley James Biology Margil Rajaji Business Arnika Forrest
Business Studies (John Carkeek Cup) Marine Operations Marshall Leeson Tanuri Somarathna Chemistry Advanced Cathleen Han Mathematics Harshitha (Theodore Kingel Peddireddy Prize) Dance (Year 12 Millicent Rayner subject) Essential Peyton Cordell Mathematics Dance (Year 12 Lachlan subject) MacDonald (Kath Creswick Mathematics Memorial Trophy) (Annette and Darryl Nick Smith Daley Rockhampton Design (City Printing Trophy Works Award) Centre Award) Jo-anna Baillie Ella (Steedman) Giles
Science (The South Family Prize) George Plumb
Essential Science Japanese (Eggleshaw Drewe Mace Trophy) Introduction to Kaviya Vignarajah Industry Megan Adamski Marine Operations Ava Tregea Introduction to Senior Agriculture (Donald Advanced Fraser Memorial Mathematics Prize) (David and Trevor Katie Swan Patterson Memorial Trophy) Introduction to Mikaela Hilber Senior Art India Iwers Mathematics Gabby Macrae Introduction to Senior Essential Mathematics Business Lacey Robertson Ashton Whatman
Home Economics Caroline Sparks
Workshop Alice Besch
The Rockhampton Grammar School Past Students’ Association Prize for First in Year 9 Mahjuba Kohinoor
Introduction to Senior Health & Physical Education Faith Maynard Introduction to Senior Music (RGS Music Council Award) Millicent Rayner Introduction to Senior Philosophy, Reasoning and Psychology Ella Milfull Outstanding Boy Boarder in Year 10 (The School Prize) Drewe Mace Outstanding Girl Boarder in Year 10 (Colin and Pauline Ash Trophy) Faith Maynard The C.C. Boland Prize for General Improvement Jett Grundy Leadership and Service Sophie Smith The E.W. Luck Cup for Character Development Millie Griffin Gloria and Peter Hansen Memorial Trophy for Character Development Harland Burnett
English Cathleen Han
English as an Additional Language (CQUniversity Australia Prize) Xiwei (Will) Wang
Visual Arts Manya Chauhan
Ancient History Benjamin Scott
Visual Arts in Practice Chelsea Wu
Industrial Technology Skills Benjamin Hinman
Best Boy Boarder in Year 11 (The John and Linda Crossland Prize) Angus Johansen Outstanding Girl Boarder in Year 11 (Colin and Pauline Ash Trophy) Maddison Acton A.T. Clarke Cup for Character Development Yuchi (Bruce) Liu
Sport and Recreation William Arnold
Legal Studies (The CQUniversity Prize Australia and The South Geldard Lawyers Award) Carmen Harrington-Wade
Literature Round Square – King Keyan Sansuka Constantine Medal for De Silva Service General Mathematics Claire Moulds (The Volck Family Prize) Passionate Music Ella KibblewhiteEndeavours and Claus Humanitarian Ideals (Nicolas K Fitzgerald Yewdale Memorial Prize) Claire Moulds
Mathematics Methods (C.C. Boland Prize) Keyan Sansuka De Silva
Fitzroy Jardine Memorial Prize Piper Christensen
Specialist Mathematics (C.C. Boland Prize) Keyan Sansuka De Silva
Chris and Mitchell Petersen Prize Spencer Smallacombe The John and Ruth Bath Prize for General Improvement Manya Chauhan
Essential Mathematics Caitlin Van Loggerenberg Physical Education (The Antill Wills Memorial Trophy) Molly McGrail
General Proficiency (Peter and Nina Vamvakaris Trophy) Olivia Old Jane Brighton Thayaghan Vignarajah
Physics Keyan Sansuka De Silva
Best Two Year 10 Passes in 2019 (John and Elizabeth Blair Memorial Prize) Harshitha Peddireddy
Visual Arts Benjamin Scott
Margil Rajaji
The Rockhampton Grammar School Past Students’ Association Prize for First in Year 11 Essential English Cameron Mortimer Cathleen Han Year 12 Geography (Year 12 subject) Accounting (City (Peter and Nina Printing Works Award) Vamvakaris Trophy) Keyan Sansuka Grace Garraway De Silva Health Education Agricultural Science Breannah (Ian R. Millroy Mackenzie Memorial Trophy) Industrial Technology Kasey Frame Skills Aquatic Practices Thomas Matsen Lucas Johnson Japanese Biology Thasuni Ama Lillie Bain Wickramarathne Puhule Gamayalage Business Management (The CQUniversity Legal Studies Australia Prize (The South Geldard and The Paul Palmer Lawyers Award) Cup) Harshitha Mikealy Ryan Peddireddy Business Studies Literature (John Carkeek Cup) Harshitha Peter New Peddireddy Chemistry Mathematical Keyan Sansuka Methods De Silva (Annette and Darryl Design Daley Rockhampton Trophy Centre Award) (Andrews & Girle Architect Prize) Margil Rajaji Candice Herring Specialist Drama Mathematics (Kath Creswick Margil Rajaji Memorial Trophy) Essential Mathematics Olivia Offord Lincoln Major English (Kellow General Mathematics Memorial Prize) Arnika Forrest Lillie Bain Modern History English and Literature Grace Garraway Extension (Volck Family Prize) Music (RGS Music Max Paxton Council Award) Cathleen Han English as an Additional Language Physical Education (CQUniversity Lucy McCartney Australia Prize) Physics Chenjun Ma Cathleen Han Psychology Tayla Wallace
Japanese (The CQUniversity Australia Prize) Hasee Weerasinghe Meegahawattage
Essential English Benjamin Hinman Health Education Lainy Curtis
Psychology (The Carter/Buxton Shield) Molly McGrail
Visual Arts in Practice (Mark Coombe Outback Art Award) Nicholas Samuels General Proficiency (Peter and Nina Vamvakaris Trophy) Rowan Nicholls Joel Brighton Eliza Cowan Isabella Shute Hayden Brown Genavieve Cooling Natalie Marks Outstanding Boy Boarder (Coombe Trophy) Nicholas Storey Outstanding Girl Boarder (Roxborough Trophy) Mikealy Ryan General Improvement (C.C. Boland Prize) Joshua O’Regan Gladstone Ports Corporation Student of the Year 2020 Olivia Offord Peter Leslie Foot Quiet Achiever Memorial Trophy Benjamin Scott Coningham Memorial Cup for Character Development in the Senior Form Kasey Frame Outstanding Achievement in Music (Chudleigh Trophy and Book Prize) Keyan Sansuka De Silva Outstanding Achievement in Public Speaking (Frank & Merilyn Luck Trophy and Bursary) Keyan Sansuka De Silva Greatest Contribution to Drama (The Argus Trophy) Roxanne McDonald Greatest Contribution to the Musical Team (McCutchan Trophy) Ellouise Anderson Olivia Offord
Sporting Prowess (The C.C. Boland Cup) Kade Goudie
Cooking Madilyn McAlister
Humanities & Social Sciences Aanya Bhat
English, Mathematics, Humanities & Social Sciences Technology Interest in Physical Luca Skilton Mathematics, Science Hayley McCamley Development English, Mathematics, English, Mathematics Tosaron Adegbija and Athletic Science and Science English, Physical Proficiency Kitty Flenady Xavier Khandaker Education (Sylvia Dixon Trophy) Jordan Hodgetts English, Mathematics, English, Mathematics, Patrick Chay Art, Music, Japanese, Humanities & Social Mathematics, Music Australian Olympic Technology Sciences Megan Nguyen Change-Maker Award Zachary Holtzman Jacob Tripet English, Mathematics, Nicholas Storey Year 6P English, Mathematics, Humanities & Social Kasey Frame Humanities & Social Sciences General Effort Inter-house MacKenzie Sciences, Science Giovanna Sidharta Eric John Dennis Shield Robert Muller Fiza Kaushal Year 5C Jardine Year 3L Technology (Captains) General Effort Seth Tregea Thomazine Cumner General Effort Kishan Kotian Kade Goudie Leo Carolan Lily Aird Mathematics, Art Oscar Muller The Wilson Family Darcy Malone Technology Trophy for Cooking Hannah Davis English, Mathematics Most Outstanding VET Oliver Moore Mathematics Shyam Ashokumar Student Physical Education Joshua Richmond English, Humanities William Howland Presley Acton Physical Education & Social Sciences, The Wilson Family Mathematics Lochlan Snaidero Science Trophy for Ruchika Mamadigi English Rini Clayton Most Outstanding VET English Ekamjot Singh English, Mathematics, Student - Agriculture Sasha Durga Shaji Art Humanities & Social Benjamin Hinman Sciences, Science, English and Science Kiva Hirpara CQUniversity Music, Physical EduRuby Rowland Associate Vice Science cation, Japanese Chancellor’s Award English, Mathematics, Benjamin Bahnisch Tosibiletu Adegibja for VET Humanities & Social Music Year 6R Wade Haynes Sciences, Science, Daisy Williamson Music General Effort Australian Defence English, Mathematics, Zara Kummerfeld Kallan Parker Force 2020 Humanities & Social Libby McDonald Future Innovators English, Mathematics, Sciences Award Humanities & Social Music Davena Keyan Sansuka Sciences, Science, Cooper Newell Parker-Clipsham De Silva Art, Technology English, Mathematics, Humanities & Social Elsa Li Australian Defence Sciences Humanities & Social Force 2020 Year 3/4W Risham Sandha Sciences, Science, Long Tan Youth 3W Japanese Mathematics Leadership and Music Vidath Wedisinghe Siyuan Liu Teamwork Award Jenul Menikpura Year 5K Benjamin Scott Art General Effort General Effort Hank Woodard The Rockhampton Siyarna Puslednik Snigdha Koduri Grammar School English, Mathematics Mathematics, Art Alexander Community Service Bhavik Bhardwaj Desal Macdonald Award Science, Physical EduChandrarathne Keyan Sansuka English cation, Technology De Silva English, Humanities & Noah Vella George Pentecost Social Sciences Interest and Service Mathematics English, Mathematics, Elizabeth Wright Out of School (R. H. Tyson Carlos Japanese McKenzie Cup) English, Mathematics, Art Ziran Lekha Kimberley Weier Science, Technology, Tatenda Mugebe English, Humanities Physical Education Outstanding & Social Sciences, Physical Education Lachlan Davis Achievement and Science Sid Ward School Spirit (Ramm 4W Neal Dhamsania Trophy) Technology General Effort Natalie Marks Year 6S Seton Brock Lachlan Ricks The Malan Family General Effort Science, Japanese Mathematics Trophy and Sewmini Yueqi (CiCi) Zhang Emma Hilber Caltex Best AllChandrarathne Mathematics, English and Science Rounder Award Harry Wright Humanities & Social Sienna Caton Joel Brighton Art Sciences 2014 Seniors’ Prize for Mathematics, Art Kate Penrose Sanula Mudalige Miaoke Li Service and Spirit English, Mathematics, Mathematics Isabella Shute English, Humanities & Bennett Reilly Music Headmaster’s Cup for Social Sciences Lara Ho Physical Education Allie Olive Leadership and Kurt Lynch English, Humanities Service Music, Physical Edu& Social Sciences, Lillie Bain Mathematics, cation, Technology Science Keyan Sansuka Technology Lachlan Robertson Riya Chakravarthy Jason Maveza De Silva Year 4G Year 5M John Wheatcroft English, Humanities General Effort Cup for & Social Sciences, General Effort Best Exemplar of the Ainsley Lang Japanese Grace Francis Freya Weigall School Motto Macte Layne Hodgetts Ava Carolan Technology Virtute et Litteris English, Science, Science Gabrielle Stewart Natalie Marks Music Harley Aitchison Nicholas Storey Physical Education Aditi Menon Art Max Cottam Best Two Year 10 English, Mathematics, Jade Harmsworth Passes in 2018 Music Humanities & Social (John and Elizabeth Mathematics Brody McCamley Sciences, Science Blair Eddie Newell Sophie Wright Science Memorial Prize) Humanities & Social Naija Abbott Co-curricular Keyan Sansuka Science Pennants De Silva Mathematics Nash Mahon Hasee Weerasinghe Pramoth Vasudevan AFL Science, Physical Meegahawattage Ethan White English, Humanities Education Kate Penrose Highest Average in the and Social Sciences Archie Cifford Secondary School (R. Edward Roche Netball English, Technology J. Macfarlane Cup) Libby McDonald English, Mathematics Ashton Rodgers Keyan Sansuka Prahas Peddireddy Tennis De Silva Mathematics, Music Spencer Besch English, Mathematics, Magnus Connell The James Risham Sandha Humanities & Social Vandeleur Sciences, Science, English, Mathematics Chess Internal Dux of the Art Lara Farmer Neal Dhamsania School Hollie Richmond English, Humanities Signing Choir Keyan Sansuka Year 4S & Social Sciences, Aditi Menon De Silva Japanese English Primary Rock Band Sascha Thomas PRIMARY Jake Hodgetts Eric John Dennis Year 5R Year 3H General Effort Primary Concert Band Calee Krarup General Effort General Effort Layne Hodgetts Lalanya Gazal Sophie Benton Marley Newell Primary Jazz Band Dimple Kotian Ruby Rowland Technology Vikram Chauhan Aryan Dost Art Physical Education Taekwon-Do Ava Creek Archie Cugola Science Ashton Rodgers Isaac Campbell Music Humanities & Social Primary Woodwind Grace Ramsay Sciences, Science Art Ensemble Miles Dey Chloe Mullen Physical Education Ziran Lekha Alexander Winslade
Primary Strings Ensemble Daisy Williamson Primary Beginner Concert Band Nate James Rugby League Kurt Lynch Archie Cugola Hockey Jade Harmsworth Senior Vocal Choir, Primary Musical, Hockey Patrick Robertson Senior Vocal Choir, Signing Choir, Primary Musical, Softball, Netball Kalani Williams Primary Trophies K.W. Green Trophy – Girls’ Swimming Layne Hodgetts Jones’ Cup – Boys’ Swimming Kurt Lynch Ford Family Trophy – AFL Most Valuable Player Archie Clifford Baxter Trophy – Best Cross Country Performance Sophie Wright T & M Moore Trophy – Softballer of the Year Tazmyn McInnerney Sally Gartside Perpetual Trophy – Netballer of the Year Madeleine Green Becker Family Trophy – Rugby League Player of the Year Tyson Carlos The Barrett Cup – Cricketer of the Year Archie Clifford Becker Family Trophy – Most Valuable Hockey Player Lawson James Prep Tennis Shield Neal Dhamsania Peter Moodie Trophy – Touch Football Player of the Year Madeleine Green Philip Bauman Memorial Shield – Primary School Equestrian Tyler Hyden SACANATAB Shield – Overall House Champion Wheatley Westpac Shield for Significant Contribution to the Arts Kalani Williams Edwards’ Trophy for Learning Acceleration Alexander MacDonald Shane Priddy Memorial Trophy (Year 5 Citizenship) Kitty Flenady RGS Red & Black Association (Positive Character Award) Layne Hodgetts The Merrick Family Shield (Most Improved Year 6) Hallie Etherden 1990 Seniors Trophy (Citizenship) Tosibiletu Adegbija 1990 Staff Trophy (Effort & Excellence) Shyam Ashokumar Ziran Lekha Kate Wilson Cup for Academic Excellence Tosibiletu Adegbija Board of Trustees Trophy (Dux of Primary) RGS Past Students’ Association Prize Neal Dhamsania
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