Staff achievements

At Scotch we are fortunate to have staff members who are passionate, inspiring, creative and dedicated both inside and outside the classroom.

These are qualities which they bring to work with them every day and which enrich the fabric of the Scotch community. As a school, we are thrilled to be able to support wherever possible and proud to share their personal achievement and passions.

Ned Sorrell

Groundsman / ASTMA Graduate of the Year

In 2021 the College was extremely proud to announce that Ned Sorrell had been awarded the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association (ASTMA) Graduate of the Year Award after presenting to the ASTMA panel on the Gold Coast. As a result of ASTMA’s partnership with Toro, Ned received a lucrative education package which he was able to take advantage of earlier this year. He flew to Phoenix, USA for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America conference and then on to Toro’s major manufacturing and testing facility in Minneapolis giving him an appreciation of the size of the global industry and the scale at which the US market operates. Ned was pleased to say that, as we thought, Scotch’s playing fields are as good as any you will find around the world!

In recent months, Scotch’s fields have hosted WACA matches, the Irish and United Stated 7s Rugby sides, the Western Force, as well as various community teams across many sports. The College is so fortunate to have quality staff such as Ned and we thank Mark Watts and the entire grounds team for their work.

Linda Gauld

Technology Operator / Scottish Musician

The Scotch College Pipe Band is an important part of our Scottish heritage, but recently, the Scotch community has also experienced another Scottish tradition of Ceilidh dancing at the 125th Cocktail party and the Scottish Banquet. We spoke with Linda Gauld, our Technology Operations Coordinator, who is the co-founder of Scottish Stramash Community Sessions and one of the fiddlers of the Gallus Ceilidh Band. “Scotland is famous for its traditional music and bothy ballads, with origins that can be traced back thousands of years. However, my fellow muso, Fiona Davidson and I noticed a gap in Perth when it came to traditional Scottish ‘session’ music being played, so we started a community group to share and teach the traditional tunes of Scotland. As Scottish Stramash members increased, we met likeminded musicians, resulting in the launch of the Gallus Ceilidh Band. Both projects share music and joy but in different formats. Gallus Ceilidh Band has seen us play in and around Western Australia and even fly to Singapore for a wedding. Scottish Stramash allows us to teach music to fellow Scots or Australians with roots in Scotland who are keen to learn more of the traditions of their ancestors.”

Lisa Evans

House Head, Anderson / Science Teacher / Ironwoman

Lisa qualified for the IRONMAN World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawai`I at the Busselton IM triathlon in December 2022 last year having tried unsuccessfully since 2003. Lisa is a teacher and a carer for her mum and her sister but she still found the time and energy to train for the gruelling 3.8km swim, 180.2km bike and 42.2km run. 16 hours, 35 minutes and 52 seconds later Lisa crossed the finish line. Amazing effort Lisa, we admire your strength and perseverance!

Sue Tredget

Modern Languages Teacher / Published Author

Sue recently published a new book “Days Like These: The Upside and Backside of Cancer” where she chronicles her battle with cancer at the peak of the pandemic. Written in real time and described as “a warm and witty account of a terrifying time that will lift you up when you least expect it”. This inspiring memoir is not to be missed! Paperback and Kindle versions are available to order on Amazon.

Ashleigh Civiello

Humanities Teacher / Award winning Highland Dancer

Most of us know Ash as the kind and caring Middle School teacher. What many don’t know is that she is also a highly accomplished Highland Dancer who has competed and performed on global stages from South Africa to Edinburgh. After a rigorous selection process, Ashleigh was recently selected as one of only two Australian Highland Dancers to join an international ensemble of 36 from Scotland, Canada, US and Australia at the Belgium International Tattoo where they performed to 9,000 people every night. Her next competition will be at the Washington Tattoo followed by the New York City Tartan Festival in an Australian-only team of 11 dancers (OzScot Australia). Directed by Cheryl Roach who has received an OAM for her contribution to the Highland Dance community worldwide, we wish Ash and her team the very best of luck in the upcoming competitions!

Nicola Eidne

Science Teacher / Artistic Swimmer

As we go to print, we hear through the grapevine that Nicola will be competing in the Artistic Swimming National Championships in Queensland in May. Best of luck Nicola and we hope to hear more about your efforts!