Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Somerset Netball State Champions 2018
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Information Somerset Lifetimes is published twice a year by Somerset College to share items of topical interest relating to overall activities of College life and the greater Somerset community. Cover Photo: Netball 1st Team: Katisha Webb, Kirsty Brodbeck, Georgia Wilson, Rylee Burns, Kasey Collins, Natalie Blauberg, Erin Crough-Heaton, Madizen Wilkins, April McMullen, Sara Dann, Sheryl Burns (Coach), Andrea Richards (Manager) Editorial Committee: Narelle Higgs Layout: Somersault Group
Contributing Writers: Craig Bassingthwaighte, John Bacon, Dane Oman, Shireen Khalil, Helen Coombes, Sara Rosentreter, Jennifer Walsh, Kurt Grgic, Georgina Powell, Desmond Chua, Noah Jay, Patricia Vizcay-Wilson, Siân Daniel, Emmeline Anthony, Joshua Critchley-Marrows, Matt Stubbs, Sheryl Burns and Sam Whish-Wilson Contributing Photographers: Brad Walker, Lisa Thomson, Isla Clancy, Shauna English, Elaine Fei, John Bacon, Jo Lau and Paul Filmer
Inside This Issue •
From The Headmaster
• 19th Annual Synergies Exhibition
•
Naplan Results
• Treasured Finds of Book Character Day
• Foundation Garden Party – The College’s Fundraiser
•
Book Fair Results Paid Forward
• Parents’ and Friends’ Association Winter Ball
•
Coast to Chinchilla
•
Staff Farewells
• Somerset Festival for Young Performers
•
B2 Returns to Barambah
•
Sustainable Spartans Updates
•
Alumni Reunion Weekend
•
Somerset Spirit Shines
• Celebration of Entrepreneurship • Junior Entrepreneurs Booming Business
• Alumni Updates – Joshua Critchley‑Marrows • Alumnus Crowned World Champ Jetpack Rider • Netball 1st Team Claims State’s Top Spot •
Snowsport First for Somerset
•
Basketballers Bouncing High
Somerset Alumni Association All students become members of the Somerset Alumni Association as they walk through the College gates as students for the last time. Association membership is for life, and our network is one founded in shared experience and comradery.
upcoming reunions and other social gatherings. All College alumni can access the Association, simply visit our Facebook page or website below.
The Association seeks to create, nurture, and grow positive and mutually beneficial associations within the College community, be that with current students, staff, and families, or with those who are now a part of the Association.
For further information regarding the Association, please contact our Community Relations Office:
As part of its service to the Alumni and College communities, the Association provides an Association Business Directory, allowing an ever-increasing number of members an opportunity to connect through two-way communication, mentoring, networking, and employment solutions. The Association also hosts reunions that celebrate our College’s history, its present, and its future. The Association provides all members with a copy of the College’s annual Somerset Lifetimes publication, and works to contact our many Association members with information about
This network is your network, so come and join us!
Facebook: www.facebook.com/somersetalumni Web: www.somerset.qld.edu.au/college/community/ alumni_association Email: alumni@somerset.qld.edu.au Phone:
(07) 5559 7327
Mail: Community Relations Office Somerset College Somerset Drive Mudgeeraba Qld 4213
From the Headmaster As always at Somerset we have enjoyed a very busy second semester. We watched our students perform, compete and test themselves at our regular events, carnivals, sporting competitions and academically, particularly with end of year exams. We continue to marvel at what they achieve and how well they represent our College. Beginning Term Three we celebrated our Founders’ Day, with the Somerset Gift the following day and our first joint Alumni Reunion on the same weekend. In the weeks following we saw our students strive to achieve their personal bests in the InterHouse and APS Athletics Carnivals. There were some winning performances at the Gold Coast Eisteddfod and Gold Coast Secondary Schools Drama Festival. Several students received adjudicator awards of excellence in acting, directing, script writing and ensemble skills.
much success. More than 300 students participating in several of our co-curricular dance programmes performed at our annual Day of Dance in Term Four. While awaiting the refurbishment of our current Performing Arts Centre, we relocated our event to the HOTA stage, Home of the Arts, for one night.
Our Open Netball Team triumphed with an historic first state championship win, claiming the Vicki Wilson Cup. Following their APS Premiership, the First VII fought back from the brink of defeat in the quarter finals to sweep the final against a worthy opponent. Our Academy Team also competed in Term Three at the Regional rounds of the tournament, against 40 schools with
The College’s dedication in service to the greater community continues to expand. In November a group of students headed west to deliver raised funds to farmers through Drought Angels, with our Service Learning Co-ordinator, Brad Walker, and parent, Simon Reeve, overseeing the mission. An impressive amount was raised to help grateful farmers suffering through a severe period of drought. The College raised over $30,000 for local charities this year and made over 2000 meals for the homeless.
Mr Bassingthwaighte with College Captain Alexandra Gerrard at the Valedictory Service
Mr Bassingthwaighte with Founders’ Day Tug-o-War Champions Veivers’ Captains Katherine Plume and Blake Mills
For our community, the Parents’ and Friends’ Association held a wonderful Winter Ball – a magnificent event thoroughly enjoyed by those in attendance. Later in the term, a third and successfully held Storyfest Business Lunch was hosted by the humorous Magda Szubanski.
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
From the Headmaster continued As the school year nears its end, we celebrate our Year 6 achievements as they end their Junior School journey and our The Class of 2018 as they graduate from the College. Once again we had an enjoyable Year 6 Dinner and a memorable Valedictory Service, Avenue of Honour and Valedictory Dinner. We wish our Senior Class every success as they forge their next path in life.
informed and remain prudent stewards of the College. Your support, and the unprecedented demand we are experiencing, means Somerset is well placed to weather any winds that blow.
Our NAPLAN results were again most impressive. Our Year 9s were ninth in the State and first in the Gold Coast region. The Years 7s were equally impressive, eighth in the State and also first in the Gold Coast region.
We have farewelled Miss Ellie Bamford, Miss Rebecca Ellis, Mr Richard Gazal, Mr Shane Lunniss, Miss Greta Morley, Mrs Elena O’Hanlon, Mr Ryaed Owens, Mrs Lesley Raw and Mr Graeme Trethewey (GT), this year and thank them for their service at Somerset.
This year we saw numerous articles about the funding debate for education. What is important is that we are well informed about any changes and have adequate time to plan. That has been past practice and we trust it continues. We all deserve a transparent and fair system, unfortunately, that has not existed for many years as successive governments on both sides have cut deals to avoid upset at the ballot box. Your Board is well
We are extremely well prepared for the new Senior Certification process starting for our Class of 2020. I commend Dr Michael Brohier, Mrs Karen Crowley and Mrs Michele Sauer who have lead the review of our processes.
We continue with our academic, cultural, co-curricular, service and sporting programmes, working consistently and tirelessly to shape our students’ futures by learning to critique, collaborate, create and communicate! Craig Bassingthwaighte Headmaster
NAPLAN Results 2018 Included here are the average scores for Somerset students for comparison with the Queensland averages and the Australian averages for students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 for each of the five areas tested.
Writing
Spelling
Somerset
Queensland
Australian
Somerset
Queensland
Australian
Average
Average
Average
Average
Average
Average
Year 3
442
398
407
444
411
418
Year 5
500
454
465
554
497
502
Year 7
561
494
465
585
542
545
Year 9
600
527
542
623
580
583
Punctuation and Grammar
Reading Somerset
Queensland
Australian
Somerset
Queensland
Australian
Average
Average
Average
Average
Average
Average
Year 3
469
430
434
487
430
432
Year 5
565
506
509
560
501
504
Year 7
590
537
541
615
542
544
Year 9
631
578
584
647
580
580
Numeracy Somerset
Queensland
Australian
Average
Average
Average
Year 3
454
399
408
Year 5
546
488
494
Year 7
603
542
548
Year 9
658
588
596
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Foundation Garden Party The College’s Fundraiser Beautiful clear blue skies greeted the 175 guests who attended the 2018 Foundation Garden Party held in the Sports Precinct Forecourt on Saturday 20 October. Many months of hard work by the organising committee ensured a successful afternoon with over 80 items up for sale via the online auction plus the Seat of Knowledge. During the afternoon over $51,000 was raised for the Foundation’s Scholarship Fund to assist students, who for financial reasons would not be able to attend Somerset, share in the Somerset Experience. Special thanks go to our major sponsors. CONDEV again contributed most generously as did Bel Air on Broadbeach. The event would not have been as successful without this support. Similarly, we thank those members of the College community who generously donated items to the online auction. Congratulations to Catherine Lee and Harvey Young who were successful in bidding for the Seat of Knowledge. Thank you both for your support. This was the third Garden Party held by the College and once again Dr Annette Allen chaired the committee who put the day together. Her determination, generosity and enthusiasm seem
to have no limits and the success of the event is testament to her work. Thank you Annette. Idy Chan, Penny Walker, Marcelle Small, Therese Bourke and Bede Young worked tirelessly for over six months to ensure auction items were available. Just as importantly they encouraged families to join us for this wonderful afternoon. Thank you all. I also extend my thanks to my colleagues, Siân Daniel and Suzie Frawley whose co-ordination and logistical support ensured the Garden Party ran smoothly on the day. Catering this year was provided by Somerset’s chef Martin Furlong. We thank Martin and his team for providing us with a sensational meal. An important part of the Garden Party, is an In Conversation session with Alumni conducted by the Headmaster. This year Natalie Smith (Class of 2015), Chantal Ward (Class of 2013) and Liam Rawson (Class of 2013) spoke of the impact their scholarships made to their education and life experiences. I thank them for their wonderful words about their time at Somerset. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2018 Garden party and we look forward to another successful event in 2020. John Bacon Dean of Admissions
Foundation Garden Party continued
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Parents’ and Friends’ Association Winter Ball
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Somerset Festival for Young Performers What a weekend it was for the 2018 Somerset Festival for Young Performers. Beautiful weather on Saturday meant our competitors and their parents enjoyed the College grounds between Sections, while Sunday’s inclement weather did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of the competitors and their families. The student performers challenged themselves across two days performing. Each participant shared their developing skills and talents. It is hoped they left with a sense of achievement and pride for their hard work and effort. The Music and Speech and Drama teachers of the Gold Coast who nominated their students make this Festival possible. As The Somerset Festival for Young Performers does not just happen. Many hours of planning and preparation are involved. Our Festival Programme Director, Mrs Helen Little and her band of helpers, especially the Somerset College Events Team, put in an incredible amount of time and hard work to make the event a success. Additionally, Mrs Sue Roberts is remarkable in her efforts organising the many student volunteers who provide such valuable service. Our staff members generously give their time doing an excellent job in each of the venues. Our Adjudicators work considerably hard over the two days. The positivity and words of encouragement go a long way to encourage the students to continue working on developing their skills. We look forward to August 2019 and the next SFYP.
Somerset Festival for Young Performers continued
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Celebration of Entrepreneurship Somerset College hosted its second Somerset Celebration of Entrepreneurship in 2018. The Festival was another fantastic success, with ticket sales increasing from 5000 in 2017 to nearly 8000 this year. Key speakers included Steve Baxter from Shark Tank, and Yasmin Grigaliunas Co-Founder of the World’s Biggest Garage Sale. However, the highlight of the Festival was again Lucas and Nicholas from Orange Sky, who inspired over 750 students from across the Gold Coast with their passion for providing homeless Australians with the opportunity to wash their clothes and have a shower in a safe and secure environment.
“Super awesome to spend today with students, parents, teachers and people today from all across the Gold Coast for the Somerset Celebration of Entrepreneurship! We were inspired by their questions and the interest these students show in creating a better world. A Year 5 girl just asked if we could help her parents because her sister is going through chemotherapy and they are ‘sad and stressed’. We must change how we access care. Excited to see this upcoming generation of little entrepreneurs being unleashed on the world.” Throughout the Festival, there were also several competitions. The winners of these competitions are as follows:
Lisa Brincat, Somerset Alumni and Organiser of the Futurist Collective had this to say about the Festival:
Senior Years Bond University Pitch Competition: •
Sarah McTaggart
“Yesterday I hosted a workshop with 60 year 4 students (9 year olds). We discussed some of the problems facing the world. According to the students, pollution is the world’s biggest problem. We brainstormed solutions to this problem, talked about design thinking and then the kids pitched their solutions to the pollution problem to investors. Interestingly with no prompting the kids came up with all the same questions investors typically ask – what will you use the funds for, what’s the competition. If 9 year olds can nail investing then good news for all of us!”
•
Eva Wallace
•
Ashleigh Shannon
Leigh Kelson from Beach City Media had this to say about two of our students, Tom McKenna and Isabella Strong who worked with Leigh’s team to provide live You Tube Coverage of the event:
These girls are now working with Blue Lens Group to start their school business using the $3000 seed capital kindly donated by the Somerset Alumni Association. Somerset Alumni Middle Years Pitch Competition: •
Jaimee Dwyer
•
Cawin Ashok Kumar
•
Marcus Nguyen
These students are now working with members of the Somerset Alumni Association to start their business using the $2000 seed capital kindly donated by the Alumni Association.
“We had an awesome time and I also just wanted you to pass on my thanks to Issy and Tom. I couldn’t find them before I left and didn’t get a chance to thank them. They did an awesome job conducting interviews live streamed on You Tube!”Michael Metcalf, Founder of Kynd had this to say about the Festival:
The entire Somerset Community supported the Festival and as such contributed to its success. We are looking forward to 2019 already!
Photo by Elaine Fei, Year 12 Starkey
Photo by Elaine Fei
Dane Oman Assistant Head of Department – Business and Humanities
Celebration of Entrepreneurship continued
Photo by Shauna English, Year 10 Starkey
Photo by Isla Clancy, Year 9 Franklin
Photo by Elaine Fei
Photo by Isla Clancy
Photo by Isla Clancy
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Junior Entrepreneur’s Booming Business “My theory was that if it doesn’t succeed, it’s still worth having a go.” And that he did – he washed the cars of those two neighbours, charging $20 and $30 each due to the size of the vehicles. “After I washed the first guy’s car he sent me some feedback, which I took on board, advising me to post about my service on social media.”
Encouraged to raise his own funds to buy himself a new computer, Somerset’s Harry Hall (Year 9 Veivers) ignited his inner entrepreneurship and launched his own business. Here’s his story, as told by Shireen Khalil, published for News Corp., 6 October 2018.
Simple way Aussie teen made $2000 in one month WHEN Harry Hall asked his dad for a new computer his father turned to him and said “save your money and buy one yourself”. That’s the way dad. But what the teen’s father didn’t realise was for his surfing and footy-loving son’s entrepreneurial spirit to take over. About a month ago the 15-year-old decided to start his own mobile car washing business. “I wanted to take on a part-time job and most my friends were working at McDonalds and other casual jobs, but I wanted to do something different,” Harry told news.com.au “I had a chat to mum and dad about the lack of car detailing facilities in our area … the closest car wash was about 20 minutes away, so I thought this would be a good chance to try something new and make a bit of cash and to help fund my new computer.”
That’s when his small business spiralled out of control, forcing the teen to create a website, to help manage the influx of requests. “Overnight I got about 105 comments and an overwhelming amount of texts … that weekend I ended up washing 15 cars, making about $420.” Harry washes about three to four cars a day while he’s on school holidays, but once term four begins, he will resume working weekends only. He plans on employing some of his younger mates to help grow the business. “They’re about 12 or 13, a bit younger than me, but it would be great to get them on-board so they can make a bit of pocket money. I’ll pay them about $15 per car and I’ll keep $5 while washing other cars.” The young entrepreneur is already chipping away at another business idea – organic car washing liquids – that he believes there is a gap in the market for it. “I want to try make and sell natural car cleaning products because I have realised while cleaning cars, I am using a lot of chemical products which are harming the environment.” Harry said he doesn’t have a clear idea what he wants to do when he’s older, but something tells us he could be well on his way to making the Young Rich List. And no, he hasn’t bought himself that upgraded PC – he has no time to be playing computer games (just yet).
He added: “Mum and dad were actually surprised by my idea because they thought I was just going to work at Maccas.” The keen Queensland teen has now made close $2000 washing the cars of Casuarina locals. Not even he realised how popular his new business would become. But, like any new start-up it took a lot of effort. He created 500 flyers (on Microsoft Word) and dropped them in the mailboxes of his neighbours. “Out of the hundreds of flyers, I only got two responses – but it was two responses I never had before,” the optimistic teen said.
Photos credited to News Corp
19th Annual Synergies Exhibition The 19th Synergies Exhibition, held in Term Four, attracted many students and parents to view the vast array of high quality artwork on display. In addition to the exhibition of student work, there were performances by members of Wordsmiths, as well as musical items by Min Jae and Uni Kyeong accompanied by Mrs Roberts. All prize winners deserved congratulations for producing a high level of art. The variety of work on display came from all areas of the Design Department. The People’s Choice Award was awarded to Jacinta Mai (Year 10) for her incredible piece. Year 12 students Sebastian Angliss-Li, Elaine Fei, Valerie Fang, Bella Mulvihill and Aimeé Mulvihill were all commendable shortlists for the Somerset Senior Art Award. Local artist, Seabastion Toast attended the evening and selected Valerie Fang (Year 12) as the winner of the Somerset Senior Art Award 2018. Helen Coombes Assistant Head of Department – Design
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
19th Annual Synergies Exhibition continued Artist Statement Name: Jacinta Mai, Year 10 Title: War’s Disguise Medium: Photoshopped photography on lightbox Size (Height x width X depth cm): 60x 60 x15cm ‘War’s Disguise’ is a series of appropriated photographs aimed at conveying the power of the media to hide the tragic reality of war. Despite false depictions of events around the world the media still has a significant influence on many people’s lives. Photographs of the Vietnam War have been manipulated to show that the media can hide the devastating future of the world. These images are covered with outlines of fairy-tale scenes to hide the reality of war, reinforcing the notion that not everything is perfect like it is in imaginary fairy-tales.
Name: Valerie Fang Title: Infinitum Spatium Tenebris Medium: Hologram using digital animation viewed inside box with reflective perspex mirrors and cast resin hands. Size: 200 x 60 x 60cm box As we are progressing into a more technological era, we unconsciously ignore issues surrounding us and pay attention to the digitally crafted ones in the form of false articles and news. As Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality become part of our own daily lives, we find it harder to distinguish what is or isn’t real. The title translates to mean an Infinite Dark Space which the box is meant to be. The images and time-lapse play around with what is real or not.
Treasured Finds of Book Character Day The Junior School participated in many literacy themed events in Term Three, to celebrate the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA), book week. The theme for 2018 was ‘Find Your Treasure’ and many pirate and treasure activities were enjoyed in the KIP. Book Character Day was certainly a highlight of the week-long celebrations. This year the whole Junior School was involved with most of the students (and teachers) from Pre-Prep to Year 6 dressed as their favourite book character. The younger students had a special visit from our Year 3 to 6 students who came and shared their favourite stories with them. Students in the early years then strutted their stuff around the Great Hall for the Book Character Day Parade. It was amazing to see so many beautiful costumes, and the smiles on the students’ faces said it all. As a part of Book Character Day the students in Year 3 to 6 donated a gold coin to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, which assists remote communities to access books and gift culturally appropriate books to communities, as well as books in first languages. This year we raised $590 which is a wonderful effort from all. If you wish to read more about the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, visit: www.indigenousliteracyfoundation.org.au Sara Rosentreter Teacher – Information Literacy
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Treasured Finds of Book Character Day continued
Book Fair Funds Paid Forward Purchases from the Somerset College Scholastic Book fair this year raised an impressive $15,697 in total sales. The commission from these sales allowed the College to donate $2000 to the Room to Read organisation, a $500 box of toys and books for Mudgeeraba Special School, and $1,200 worth of Scholastic books for our own Junior library collection. We are so proud to be able to support Room to Read. They are a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the literacy of children in developing countries, with a particular emphasis on girls’ education. So far, they have helped over 12 million children worldwide learn to read and write, which in turn gives them the opportunity to break the poverty cycle. Our $2000 is enough to educate almost 30 children for a whole year, much thanks go to the Somerset community. Jennifer Walsh Information Services
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Coast to Chinchilla With a naïve, yet eager mystique simmering within the group, and a cheque paired with hundreds of uplifting messages, the loaded minibus pulled out of Sara Carrigan Court. As we progressively tracked further westward, the heavy storms of the coast transitioned to light showers, which then made way for blue skies as we headed over the Great Dividing Range. Five hours driving, a Maccas run and several card games later, we rolled into the Drought Angels warehouse in Chinchilla. Greeted by an amazing team of women, we briefly observed their charity shop filled with donated sundries, before heading out to Di and Andrew McIntyre’s black-angus cattle farm. Driving along the gravel road, many of the students’ eyes were drawn open in a perplexed state. Along either side of the road were long ditches filled with murky water, but beyond that (other than the odd puddle) were dry, barren fields. After meeting Di and Andrew, they explained to us that a super cell had stormed through the town four days prior, bringing a vital downpour for most of the farms. However, they went on to say that follow-up rain was needed to actually break the drought and that the incredibly dry nature of the ground meant that a large portion of the water would evaporate before crops could absorb it. After some lunch and an interesting demonstration of the branding process, we headed over to a watermelon farm run by father and son Darrell and Terry O’Leary. They had been thrilled by the forthcoming prospect of rain, but cruelly, they received kiwifruit-sized hail instead. Within half an hour, $600 000 worth
of freshly planted watermelon crop (which was not allowed to be insured) had been destroyed. Commonly, people believe that farmers who are struggling with conditions are always just poor planners. However, when looking into the beaten eyes of Darrell O’Leary, whose watermelon crop had been ravaged by hailstorms or drought for four of the past six years, we understood that farmers in these circumstances are often completely at the mercy of Mother Nature. Following this visit, we met Hayden, the drover, who had travelled from Bingara (his hometown in Northern NSW) to Chinchilla, in order to shift and feed 800 cattle. What truly astounded the group was the mental toughness Hayden showed to be living away from his wife and children for six months, whilst living out of a tiny horse float. Eventually, we managed to pull ourselves away from the temptation of the affectionate cattle dogs and headed to our accommodation at Columboola Country Homestay. Around the campfire, we were told shocking stories about wild dogs that often tore through farms, killing upwards of 100 sheep in a night, leaving us frightened for the night ahead. The work of Drought Angels is so important; they provide the much-needed support and voice for rural farmers. Such is the quality of their social work, that we have invited them to the Somerset Entrepreneurship Festival next year. Overall, this trip was an incredibly eye-opening experience that truly exposed the group to the struggles farmers experience, and the amazing support that the Drought Angels consistently provide to assist them. Kurt Grgic Year 12 Andrews
Staff Farewells Richard Gazal Co-ordinator – Chaplaincy Services Mr Richard Gazal commenced as a teacher in the Senior School at Somerset in 2007 and went on to become Head of Department – Chaplaincy Services in 2013. Mr Gazal continued in the dual roles as a teacher in the Senior School and Co-ordinator – Chaplaincy Services from 2015. He leaves us now after eight years, having delivered many inspirational, engaging and memorable services, prayers and addresses. Mr Gazal’s dedication and passion to Somerset College has been invaluable.
Graeme Trethewey Teacher – Senior School, Outdoor Education Assistant Commencing in 1986 as a Teacher in the Senior School, Mr Trethewey (GT) has been a magnificent servant of the College with his commitment to students, colleagues and parents over many generations. He has enhanced the lives of all those lucky enough to have experienced the teacher, Head of House, Outdoor Education specialist, joker, storyteller and Rugby tragic.
Terry Herbert
Lesley Raw
Board Member
Barista
Mr Terry Herbert has been a Somerset parent from 1998 to 2012, a member of the College Board from 2003 to 2018, was Deputy Chair of the College Board from 2011 to 2018, was a Committee Member and volunteer of the Somerset Celebration of Literature from 1998 to 2018, and continued as a Storyfest Board Member this year. Mr Herbert’s leadership and service to Somerset College remains significant and unique.
Mrs Raw leaves us to travel the world. Mrs Raw’s service as a member of staff has been synonymous with good cheer, encouragement and enthusiasm for which we are forever grateful. Café MacKenzie just won’t be the same!
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
B2 Returns to Barambah After hearing the stories from the inaugural B1 trip last year, our expectations for B2 were higher than we could have imagined. However, having experienced this trip for ourselves, we can say that the memories we made were unique and our experiences exceeded our expectations. Among the many destinations visited on the journey to Barambah, our stop at Coomba Falls was probably the most hard-hitting. Reflecting on the past trauma suffered by First Nations people including the frontier wars, enabled us to remember the past and better understand the real-life struggles facing indigenous people with a view to walking together now and in the future. In our personalised journals, we were able to record our reflective thoughts and emotions. After a quick stop at the beautiful Wooroolin Wetlands, we arrived at Murgon State School and were greeted by Uncle Bouw, who kindly performed a welcome to country. We were not so ‘warmly’ welcomed by the frosty weather prevalent most mornings. Although a struggle to get out of our warm beds by 6:00am, once we had bellies full of cereal and toast, we were all eager to meet the students with who we would be spending the week. When we arrived, we were kindly greeted by the teaching staff and then assigned to our classrooms. Bustling with excitement we were taken to ‘The Shed’ – an assembly point for when students arrive at school.
From the first moment we met the students, we knew it was going to be a tough challenge saying goodbye at the end of the week. The days following our first, created ever lasting memories of singing together, playing ball games, colouring, long jumping, crafts, dancing and most importantly learning from each other! The children we met were so happy and welcoming. This is the second time that Murgon State School has opened its doors to Year 10 students from Somerset. Instantly, friendships were formed. Our time at the school varied between sitting beside students and helping them through class work, assisting in the annual athletics carnival or sharing stories over recess and lunch, to name a few. Our evening debriefs allowed each of us to share a yarn or two. It was nice hearing what our peers were doing in neighbouring classrooms and a reminder of why we were on B2. These sessions however, would not be complete without Mr Walker’s famous slideshow of photos captured that day and a Midnight Oil clip! Not only were we fortunate enough to visit the incredible children and staff at Murgon, we had multiple opportunities to extend our horizons and knowledge of indigenous culture. Cherbourg is a small town with a huge history. Many of the students we worked alongside at Murgon make the commute each day to Murgon State School. The Ration Shed in Cherbourg was a favourite for the group. We were not only able to learn more about the sorry history, thanks to insight provided by Uncle Eric but also design our very own boomerangs! We surprised each other with our artistic talents – each design with a different story to tell. Mr Levi Murray from CRAICCHS educated us on the repercussions still solemnly felt by members of the indigenous community today. We were left dumbfounded when Levi revealed he had already attended over 500 funerals of indigenous people in his young life due to the devastation felt by his ancestors carried through epigenetics.
B2 Returns to Barambah continued Not a dry-eye was seen saying goodbye to the kids and staff of Murgon State School on Friday morning. We briefly visited the Sunshine Coast Hinterlands for lunch and our final reflections before continuing back to the Gold Coast. We are so grateful for the trip we embarked on and the experiences that will remain with us forever. We would like to thank Ms Andrea Lewis for her assistance and huge thank you to Mrs Clare Walker and Mr Brad Walker for their generosity and compassion. Words cannot describe the appreciation we have for this fabulous opportunity Year 10 students now have. A final word from one of our nation’s leaders: “We must engage young people at school and beyond..., this is why our efforts to close the gap, and build momentum for constitutional recognition, must always be informed by the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples”. Georgina Powell, Year 10 Veivers Desmond Chuah, Year 10 Andrews
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Sustainable Spartans Updates Somerset Volunteers Transform Local Park Mudgeeraba’s Hinterland Regional Park underwent a transformation in September, after Somerset volunteers dirtied their hands planting trees. More than 30 teachers, students and their families joined the tree planting day. The response was great and the enthusiastic group worked together to plant 560 native trees and shrubs in an area of wetland. Over the past 20 years, volunteers from the local community have transformed the beautiful 72 hectare park into a recreational space that provides habitat for wildlife, including frogs, small mammals and 158 bird species. The community tree planting event provided an opportunity for volunteers to learn about bush regeneration and to contribute to the ongoing restoration of one of the Gold Coast’s most important natural areas. The Sustainable Spartans focuses on raising awareness about conservation and providing habitat for wildlife both within the College grounds and in the wider community. Noah Jay, Year 9 Veivers
Sustainable Spartans Updates continued Pre-Prep Wildlife Hospital Inspired by an interest in caring for animals and learning about native wildlife, the Pre-Preps very busy vet surgery transitioned to a wildlife hospital. The wildlife hospital kit and all supporting resources were put together by Green Heroes, a local not for profit organisation dedicated to educating, empowering and inspiring young people to foster connections with the natural world. An enthusiastic and active member of the MYP Sustainable Spartans Group and self-confessed turtle nerd, spent time in the classroom sharing her knowledge and passion for nature. This provided the Pre-Preps with a very engaging and hands on opportunity to learn how they too can help to conserve and protect wildlife. In further commitment to learning about our natural world, several volunteers have been involved in making a difference to the lives of orphaned animals creating and decorating pouches for rescued joeys. Anyone interested is encouraged to help make some more pouches, you only need to know how to use a pair of scissors or sew in a straight line. For more information at: pvwilson@somerset.qld.edu.au Patricia Vizcay-Wilson Pre-Prep Teacher
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Alumni Reunion Weekend In 2018, the Somerset Alumni Association hosted the inaugural Alumni Reunion Weekend! This annual event invites all Somerset College alumni to return to the College – this event is the first time the opportunity is available for our 10, 20, and 30 year alumni to reunite and reminisce not only with their own classmates, but also with other College alumni, including staff past and present. The inaugural Alumni Reunion Weekend was held on the Founders’ Day and Somerset Gift weekend in July this year. This weekend provided alumni with an opportunity to join in the Founders’ Day festivities, watch and participate in the Somerset Gift, and attend the annual Alumni Cocktail Function.
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The Alumni Cocktail Function was a wonderful affair, with past students, past staff, and current staff enjoyed reminiscing with their peers and teachers, and many laughs were had about school days and how life has changed over the years. It was also great to witness students from different graduating classes making connections!
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We hope to see the Alumni Reunion Weekend grow in popularity as the years progress, and we encourage all Somerset Alumni to support this event. I would like to extend my thanks to Ms. Siân Daniel, Alumni Association Secretary, who worked tirelessly to make this a memorable occasion. Sally Leslie (nee Mitchell, Class of 1992) President – Somerset Alumni Association
We can’t reach you if we can’t find you! If you need to update your contact information, or to check we have your current details up to date, please Siân Daniel, Alumni Association Secretary, at sdaniel@somerset.qld.edu.au. The Alumni Association is your association, so you can always reach us by: Web: www.somerset.qld.edu.au/our-community/alumni Facebook: www.facebook.com\SomersetAlumni Email: alumni@somerset.qld.edu.au Phone: +61 7 5559 7100 In person: Community Relations Office Somerset College Somerset Drive Mudgeeraba Qld 4213 2019 Alumni Reunion Weekend The Alumni Reunion Weekend is open to all alumni, however the Association is also happy to offer assistance in organising specific reunions for 10, 20, and 30 year alumni. For information on the 2019 Alumni Reunion Weekend or to request a specific 10, 20, or 30 year reunion event, please contact Siân Daniel, Alumni Association Secretary, at: sdaniel@somerset.qld.edu.au.
Somerset Spirit Shines As the Class of 2024 prepares to move in Senior School, they have spent time reflecting on memorable moments defining life at Somerset. One of those moments was so articulately recorded by Emmeline Anthony when they cohort was in Year 3.
Interview of Giovanna, Ekheera and Valentina In July, every year at Somerset College, there is an Athletics Carnival. This year was special because for the first time ever, the Year 3s were included. There is another reason why this year’s Athletics Carnival was really special: some Year 3 students did something amazing which I am going to tell you about. Valentina Restaino, from the Starkey House, was having a hard time running in the eight-year-old 800m run which is two whole laps of the oval. She had a stitch and was crying, stopping and falling behind. Meanwhile, there was another runner, her name is Giovanna Basile, she is in the Andrews House and she is well-known for her fast running. What happened at this point got everyone’s attention; Giovanna stopped to help Valentina! She didn’t just stop for a minute, she began running with her, hand-in hand, Valentina in tears and Giovanna encouraging her. The two girls were nearly done the long, exhausting race when another Year 3 girl came along and insisted that Giovanna should go ahead and she would stay with Valentina! This was Ekheera Birk, from the Franklin House. Giovanna ran ahead and in the end, all three girls finished the race.
Giovanna was a bit worried that the Andrews House would be a bit grumpy with her about what she was doing, after all, she was giving up a chance for points for her team in helping her friend. She pushed that thought out of her mind, decided to be a risk-taker and focus on the positive thing she was doing. In the end, after Ekheera took over, Giovanna came fifth. When I asked her if she was happy that she made the choice to stay behind, she said that she was very glad that she had done that and she would have been very, very sad if she hadn’t. The amount of kindness that was shown to Valentina that day was exceptional. I wanted to know how she was feeling about that. She said that she was happy and grateful to both Giovanna and Ekheera. When I asked her to describe how she was feeling and what helped her stay committed to the race, she said that both Giovanna and her Dad had said “Never Give Up” and she followed their advice. As for me, I think it is really nice to have such kind people in my year level. Thank you Giovanna and Ekheera. Emmeline Anthony, Year 6 Laver
After I heard about this unusual event, I wanted to find out the reasons why these girls did what they did. With the help of my teacher Ms Wilson, I interviewed them. I began by asking Giovanna why did she choose to be caring and stay with Valentina rather than running ahead. She told me that the race is about having fun running, not just about winning. She wanted to be kind and let Valentina have a fun race too. What made the story more extraordinary was that all three girls were from different houses, so helping one another was a much more difficult choice to make then if they were all on the same team. When I asked Ekheera how she knew that Valentina and Giovanna were co-operating rather than competing she said that she had seen Valentina crying and when she caught up to them and got a closer look she could tell that Giovanna was staying behind to support her friend. She decided to co-operate too. Besides, she knew that she wasn’t a speedy runner and wasn’t going to win anyway. Giovanna did still stand a chance of getting a high score and she wanted to help her do that.
Photography by Jo Lau and Laurens Brisbane
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Alumni Update – Joshua Critchley-Marrows Class of 2011
How do you spend a working day? What are some of your fondest memories of your time at Somerset?
One of my fondest memories at Somerset would have to be my rowing career. The strong sense of teamwork you achieve in meeting before 6.00am, in the middle of winter, to row on the misty waterways of the Gold Coast’s riverfront suburbs is unparalleled. For a small team, we performed above our weight, winning races in local and state championships. I recall well my single’s race win, which even though was only for the local Gold Coast region, for a short scrawny 14-year-old boy, I was proud. How did Somerset shape your career path? One of the best aspects I can draw from my time at Somerset is the variety of stuff you get involved with. In the morning you are designing a new factory automation system in the engineering labs, come midday you are writing an essay analysing the moral philosophies of Immanuel Kant, and in the afternoon, you are conducting an experiment with hydroponic plants. These experiences are an amazing thing to draw from in your career. Even though I work as a satellite engineer, I often write articles analysing or discussing space, its policies and politics. My economics lessons with Mr Juniper are often relevant. What I believe though is one of Somerset’s strongest assets is the teaching staff. The passion of my teachers for the subjects they taught was very inspiring. Even with my most dreaded of subjects, English, Mr Goodburn always found a way to introduce new dimensions to what was a simple piece of classical text. My marks were originally poor, but with his lessons, I started to identify the underlying tones hidden within the language. I look at text and prose with a fresh perspective now, taking every opportunity to watch a Shakespearean production from the Royal Shakespeare Company or to read a text by Harper Lee or Ken Kesey.
Currently, I am technical lead of a project with the European GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) Agency on improving services of the new European Galileo satellite constellation into smartphones, Satnavs, trackers, etc, location solutions. Essentially, this is improving the accuracy of the little blue dot on Google Maps. I am working with partners in France, Spain, Switzerland, Czech Republic and Poland, with also assistance from Google, to introduce accuracies below 50cm to your GPS location (imagine knowing which lane you’re driving in or if you are approaching a road crossing). The applications of this technology are enormous, from assisted navigation for the visually impaired or enabling Pokémon GO games. It is awesome to think this may even be introduced to millions or even billions of smartphone users worldwide. However, my work isn’t just limited to this. I am also working on a new generation spacecraft guidance unit, called a star tracker. I am completing this through the University of Sydney, but we have also developed collaborations with Texas A&M (U.S.A.) and University of Surrey (U.K.), where it will be launched on the first satellite to be ‘Made In Space’ (by use of a 3D printer). It is an amazing feeling to be contributing to such an incredible milestone, not only improving spacecraft guidance systems but a future of spacecraft manufacturing in-orbit. My days can also be filled with presentations at various conferences and international meetings, engaging with students to inspire a STEM career through talking about space with other engineers as well as astronauts, and discussing future collaborations with global partners in areas such as lunar missions, better smartphone positioning and global satellite tracking networks. Every day is different and exciting – I sometimes need to pinch myself to make sure I am not just dreaming. Who are the people who inspire you? My mentor from Sydney University, Warwick Holmes, has inspired me greatly. He was the first Australian to be employed by the European Space Agency and became the lead Avionics Engineer for the Rosetta spacecraft mission to Comet-67P. The mission successfully landed a rover named Philae on the Comet’s surface, which currently is in the solar system’s asteroid belt. The mission took nearly fifteen years, performing flybys with Mars and Earth several times before entering a trajectory for the Comet.
Alumni Update – Joshua Critchley-Marrows continued What life lessons guide you? I cannot emphasise more how important working hard is. But, it’s not just about working hard, it is about working hard when you need to work hard. Find your passion, and then go straight at it. You shouldn’t work though, when you aren’t productive. This is the opportunity to take a break and make the most of life. What are some of your most defining moments in life, so far? This year, I was awarded as a finalist of the University of Sydney Convocation Medal. This was an amazing achievement, being recognised as one of the leading students of the University in the 2017 graduation year. Also, this year, my honours thesis was awarded the Engineers Australia Thesis Prize. Six years ago, I never believed within my university career I would achieve so much. My exchange in Sweden was a real eye-opener for me. Stockholm is an amazing city and living there with over 200 exchange students from all regions of the world was a fantastic experience. I travelled to Russia, Finland, Latvia, Estonia, Norway, and the Arctic. I also worked with the first Swedish astronaut and their university small satellite project, developing a software routine for the spacecraft’s power systems. What advice would you offer current students? Make the most of it. The opportunities you get at Somerset are rare. Compete in Rowing, perform in a musical and engage in a debate. These experiences all complement your future; you never know when you’ll use it again. Believe me, they occur in the most infrequent of situations. Also, enjoy yourself. The world is a big place, and you’ll find every opportunity to explore it when you graduate. Whilst you’re at school, enjoy your time being part of an exciting community with students from all walks of life. Once you finish, routine (at least for me) became a thing of the past. Appreciate the simplicity of going to a class or a club each day and learn as much as possible.
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Alumnus Crowned World Champ Jetpack Rider When Matt Stubbs graduated Somerset College in 2010, he never imagined he would be travelling the world competing in a sport which at the time had not been launched in Australia. Now in 2018 he is enjoying global status, after being crowned World Champion Jetpack Rider at the Hydro Flight World Championships held in Florida, U.S.A. I currently work full time as a sport and racing trader at TopSport, and work casually as a professional flyer for Jetpack Entertainment and Events. Six years ago when the sport first came into Australia I began working with 1800Jetpack as an instructor, training other people how to fly the jetpack. I continued my casual job for three years before transitioning into a professional flyer, exclusively for Jetpack Entertainment and Events. Now as a casual side job, I fly in numerous stunt and firework shows all around Australia. I was actually one of the first few people to fly a jetpack in Australia and I have loved every moment of it since. When I began the sport, I never imagined it would grow to the point where I would be able to travel around the world and compete against other athletes from all over the globe. The recent world championship in Naples Florida had athletes competing from 14 different countries. When I initially saw competitions occurring overseas, I did not comprehend I would be good enough to compete against those I watched fly. However, I have always set high expectations for myself, so after much training I was preparing to travel to the U.S. and win the championship. It is a surreal experience knowing you’re the best in the world at something after achieving a long term goal. The reality is still yet to fully sink in. I would have never been able to get to where I have today without the support from Ritchie Gregg, from Jetpack Entertainment and Events. I can humbly identify, there’s always room for improvement. It is still a young sport, with athletes pushing the boundaries every day. I know I need to continue working on new tricks and creating never-beforeseen moves if I want to maintain my title and again win the world championship next year. Before I fly I feel a surge of excitement, whether it’s for training, during a show or for a competition. There’s no other feeling like flying, and it’s one I’ve always thoroughly enjoyed. Competing at a professional level brings
a thrill knowing, with some of the tricks we complete, jetpack riding is a somewhat dangerous sport. I try to enjoy the feeling of flying with my adrenaline pumping and learn to just have fun. In doing so, I expel any negative or petrifying thoughts, because that’s when mistakes happen. Learning new tricks can be a frightening, when you’re on the edge of crashing or landing a trick but that’s part of any extreme sport! Matt Stubbs Class of 2010
Alumnus Crowned World Champ Jetpack Rider continued
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Netball 1st Team Claims State’s Top Spot Somerset’s Netball 1st Team won the Queensland State Vicki Wilson Cup for 2018, in true Spartan style. Qualifying as the top school in the regional playoffs earlier in the year, put the team in the state’s top 20 and competitors in the Cup finals. Head Coach, Sheryl Burns shares the moment the team triumphed. Heading into the weekend with seven games ahead of us was daunting, knowing our first game up was against St Margaret Mary’s College who defeated us by one point to qualify for this year’s QISSN Grand Final. Having confidence in our preparation and the hunger to not let history repeat, the team went on to win convincingly 51 to 42. With only an hour break between games it was back on court to play Fairholme, Bridgidine and Mackay Christian colleges, with another three great wins finishing top of our pool. The quarter final against Mackay State High School was our biggest challenge Sunday morning. Winning the game would put us in the top four and better our position from 2017. We were off to a slow start, making a few uncharacteristic errors and we found we were chasing our tails. We struggled to reduce the margin by three quarter time. The final quarter arrived and we had a deficit of seven to pull back, putting our stress levels at an all-time high. A change of game plan coupled with some great defensive team pressure gains and started pulling the score back goal by goal. With only minutes to go, opportunities arose to take the win home but we knew it was not going to be easy. The final buzzer sounded and the scores were locked at 36 all. Overtime! We were forced to play another 10 minute battle to find the winner. Thankfully, fitness, commitment, being smart and giving a lot of heart resulted in an overtime finish in grand style. We won the game 51 to 42.
1st Team: Katisha Webb, Kirsty Brodbeck, Georgia Wilson, Rylee Burns, Kasey Collins, Natalie Blauberg, Erin Crough-Heaton, Madizen Wilkins, April McMullen, Sara Dann
Whew! That was just too close to enjoy! Without a lot of rest and having to play an additional 10 minutes we were back on court within the hour for the semi- final against The Cathedral College. The girls were focused and ready to put the previous game behind them, doing just that with a 36 to 28 winning performance and qualifying for the Grand Final. It was Helensvale who progressed to the Grand Final after beating last year’s Cup winners, Matthew Flinders in the semis. We were in for a big game. Going into the final match, there was a relaxed calmness surrounding the team. Captain Kirsty presented each player with a hand written gift of kindness and then a fun game of knockout to ease the nerves. From the start of the game, we were on a mission to compete with the talented and experienced Helensvale side. Each player had a plan, and to be competitive they needed to stick to it – that’s exactly what they did – for the entire game. We led from start to finish with tight defence and the slickest attack of the tournament. Kasey Collins was on fire shooting in the 90s all tournament. No player could keep up with the speed and flare of Rylee Burns. Katisha Webb and Madizen Wilkins delivered some brilliant feeds to the goal shooters and our defensive end of Sara Dann, Kirsty Brodbeck, Erin Crough-Heaton and Natalie Blauberg were exceptional, keeping the opposition’s state representatives from shining. In an amazing display of Netball, the girls completed an outstanding year by winning the game 38 to 36 and bringing home the State Title and Vicki Wilson Cup. Our first ever State title! Sheryl Burns Director of Netball
Basketballers Bouncing High The Somerset Spartans Basketball players set off south to compete at the Nationals School Basketball Championships in early December, 2018. Our U17 team kicked off the tournament showing Spartans spirit giving a selfless, inspiring and exciting performance to claim a historic first win. The U15 Boys unfortunately went down by four points in the same morning but played a very spirited game, making it a proud day for Somerset College. The U17 Division 4 Boys Basketball team went on to a gripping Semi-Final but narrowly went down to Doncaster High School. On the final day of the Championships the side played off for a Bronze medal against Cheltenham Secondary College. The boys managed an epic win, when Lachlan Sowerby shot and scored a game-winning basket in overtime with 00.1. The crowd stormed the court in euphoria to the Under 17 Boys who took out a remarkable Bronze in Division 4 victory. Congratulations to Jordon Webb and Dominic Bensley who were the highest point scorers at the tournament. All players did the college proud. Thanks to Dean Marais and Mitchell Murdock who coached superbly and Manager Shane Lunniss who ensured the boys were supported both on and off the court. This is Sparta! Sam Whish-Wilson Director of Basketball
Somerset Lifetimes Fifty Second Edition – Semester Two 2018
Snowsport First for Somerset A group of Somerset students made it through to the Subaru Australian Interschools Snowsports Championships held in Perisher this winter. This is the first for Somerset, who have named themselves as the Somerset Snowsports team. We were seconds off achieving medals in the snowboard GS and Moguls. There were 284 schools with over 2700 competitors for the week. The Somerset Snowsports team achieved 10th position overall which was an outstanding effort by all students. We look forward to next year’s 2019 invitation. Well done to those who participated: Marko Sudgen, Year 7 Franklin Momone Uchida, Year 7 Franklin Sasha Vitte, Year 7 Franklin Eden Dovrat, Year 8 Starkey Oscar Filmer, Year 8 Andrews Arimasa Uchida, Year 8 Franklin
Arimasa Uchida
Ashton Govenlock, Year 9 Franklin Jolaís Govenlock, Year 11 Franklin
Ashton Govenlock
Momone Uchida
Marko Sudgen
Snowsport First for Somerset continued
Eden Dovrat
Oscar Filmer
Sasha Vitte
Jolias Governlock
If you have any changes to mailing details or would like to let the College know what you have been doing since leaving Somerset College, we’d love to hear from you. Email alumni@somerset.qld.edu.au. Somerset Drive, Mudgeeraba, Queensland 4213 Telephone 07 5559 7100 Facsimile 07 5559 7345 publications@somerset.qld.edu.au ACN 010 946 906