The voice of St. Spyridon College
| August 2017 | NUMBER 24 |
stylus The Strategic Plan 2017 – 2021 - Seven Goals The new Strategic Plan 2017-2021, will provide our students with opportunities to develop into integral and principled individuals who possess a strong sense of history, have the capacity to critically engage with complex ideas, and to achieve and accomplish in ways pleasing to God. In the context of our college, this means:
• To be fair, just and respectful to all people.
• To respect and care for the environment and all living things.
• To contribute to the welfare of others.
• To take dynamic and coherent action to impact on the world for the better.
• To exercise judgment within an ethical framework.
As professionals of the highest calibre, our teachers will be supported in their work with students with access to professional development and purpose-built future focussed facilities. Our reputation as a Centre of Educational Excellence in teaching and learning, will be enhanced by our partnerships with Universities, and other professional bodies. Goal 1 - Build students’ capacity to critically engage with complex concepts, through learning experiences that incorporate the Big Human Ideals and Ideas; Big Stories and Great books; Current global issues and events. Goal 2 - Develop multidisciplinary approach to learning through programs that integrate the study of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Humanities, English, Maths and Science (HEMS). Goal 3 - Expand our languages and culture programs. Goal 4 - Expand professional links of our educators with academic institutions-locally and globally and further enhance academic careers of our students. Goal 5 - Enhance communications and comply with all mandates. Goal 6 - Build reputation as a school that cultivates global citizenship for its students. Goal 7 - Develop and implement a Master Plan to incorporate new purpose-built and conducive facilities to accommodate an enrolment of 960 students K minus 1 to Year 12 (460 K minus 1-Year 6 and 500 Years 7-12).
The term Stylus is used to describe a myriad of different devices used in computing, science, medicine, art and technology. In ancient times, a stylus was the bone or ivory pen used to write on wax or clay tablets. Stylus is also the Greek word for pillar, denoting strength and grace. * A copy of the full Strategic Plan is available for download at www.stspyridon.nsw.edu.au
A Successful Appreciating Culture Event
O
n the 26th August we held the 7th Appreciating
same time, learning about Greek mythology – which as we all
Culture Event, in the Sports and Performing Arts
know, has informed Western thought and literature down the
Centre. This year, our focus was on showcasing
centuries. I commend the creative and hard work of the writers
how St Spyridon College contributes to building culture; how
Mr Amditis and Mrs Diavatiotis. The work is of an outstanding
we enrich the culture of NSW and Australia. We celebrated
quality. I thank Mr Steven Csergo, for his scintillating original
the work that teachers do with students in the Arts and Design
artwork. I acknowledge the work of all those who contributed
and Technology. It was wonderful to see how students from
as editors and graphic artists. We were also pleased to launch
years 3 to 12 respond to the opportunities to create something
a book of poems, An Anthology of Memories by the late
new that reflects their talents and passion.
Venedictos Livissianis. His poems were inspired by the everyday
The Art Exhibition theme of “Hellenic Ripples” showed that students develop an appreciation of the influences of the
joys of watching his Church, community and College develop and grow in ways pleasing to God.
Hellenic heritage on all art forms, across time and place. For
For teachers to do their best work, they need the support
the first time this year, the HSC calendar allowed us to exhibit
of their Parishes and Committees. They need facilities and
some of the HSC works.
resources that are up to date and purpose-built. Over the 34
We were also pleased to launch a new venture for St Spyridon College – ‘the St Spyridon College Press’. Under the new crest of the “Γλαύκα”, the College will publish original works by teachers and others, for wider dissemination to schools and the general public.
years of the school’s history the Parish and Community of St Spyridon College has worked diligently and responsibly to deliver to the highest standards. As you all know the next major project is the much anticipated new Infants’ School building. The new building will provide spacious classrooms with age appropriate equipment, and specialist areas for music, the
The first document we launched, was a unit of work which
creative and performing arts, as well as softfall play areas and
will form part of a series, for school learners of Greek as a
flexible multipurpose spaces. We thank Father Steven Scoutas
second or foreign language. “The Olympian Gods” – «Οι
for his leadership these many years, Mr Livissianis all the Board
Θεοί του ‘Ολυμπου» was originally developed for students in
members and Christina Tsaconas, Bursar and Parish Executive
Year 3 at St Spyridon College. However, the quality of the work
Officer, for their vision and foresight to provide this wonderful
is such that it is suitable for all students of the Greek language,
facility for the youngest children of our school community.
depending on their language level, including beginners and intermediate students at secondary schools. By using this book, students of all ages will develop language skills, while at the
Mrs E. Stefanou-Haag Head of College
STYLUS Page 1
Student Leaders - Build Ethos and Culture Student Leadership Assembly at the Junior School Address by Constantinos Kollias - College Captain With sincere joy and great respect I greet you this morning. It brings me so much joy to see all you students before me; for two reasons. Firstly, you look very smart in your school uniform and you sang so beautifully. Secondly your innocence and simplicity reminds me of an event during the life of Jesus, that, as an Orthodox Christian, always makes me reflect on my own life. I’ll read it out to you. “Then they also brought infants to Him that He may touch them; but when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” (From the Gospel of Luke, 18:15 – 17) Saint Theophylact of Bulgaria comments on this passage with the following words: “A little child is not arrogant, he does not despise anyone, he is innocent and guileless… he lives in complete simplicity.” Mr Thistlethwaite, please accept our earnest thanks for recognising leadership in schools and for supporting
St Spyridon College. By supporting the College, you are underlining our school’s mission to develop the whole person – mind, body and soul. This development, I believe, is well captured in the Ancient Greek word for education: Morphosis. It translates literally as ‘to shape’. At St Spyridon College, the aim of education is to shape who we are as people and not just to accumulate knowledge. It enables us to make a positive contribution to those around us; when the basil is watered, so is the pot, as goes the Greek axiom. In the spirit of dependence; another characteristic of a little child, this saying, when the basil is watered, so is the pot, may be interpreted: when my peers are refreshed with the waters of education, so am I. Through this beautiful attitude towards education and school life, encouraged by our families and our teachers, we are to make the most of the opportunities for learning, not only by the syllabus dot-points, but by establishing healthy roots with the Orthodox Faith and the Greek culture and through establishing strong friendships, stepping up to leadership roles and taking part in the arts. Mr Thistlethwaite, by recognising leadership in our school, you are acknowledging our school’s values and principles. As part of the application process for leadership positions, the prefects of both the Junior and Senior School were required to choose one of the school’s student principles and speak about it. Coincidently, both my brother Nektarios in Year 6 and I chose the same one. It reads: We respond to the difficulties of life
Prefects Make the Difference – Living Our Values This year at the Friday Prefect Assembly, we introduced several new initiatives with the aim of educating the student body about local and global happenings, as well as some community and school based activities. Every week, as part of our promotion of Global Connections, a greeting from around the world was focussed upon. All students and staff were encouraged to use the “International Greeting of the Week” when welcoming each other. Our first greeting was “Yia sou” of course. Instead of saying “Hi” when crossing paths with others, students said “Yia sou” instead. The second global greeting came from Spain - “Hola”. The next greeting is “Ciao” from Italy. To reinforce the promotion of our Global Connections, the canteen also features food(s) for sale from the focus country and we thank them. It is hoped that these will encourage greater awareness of other cultures, widen perspectives and ultimately further strengthen school spirit between peers and staff. In week 5 the Global Greeting was Namaste, hello in Indian. STYLUS Page 2
On the canteen menu was butter chicken and Indian rice pudding. The Global Greeting for week 6 was ‘Inta Pou Kamnis’, Cypriot for ‘how are you?’. In week 6 the canteen also offered traditional Cypriot food such as ‘Koupes’: essentially a meat roll, and ‘Bourekia’: ricotta cinnamon pastries. The Global Greeting for week 7 was our very own ‘G’day’! Of course the canteen had to offer a variety of Meat Pies, Fairy Bread, Trifle, Pavlova, and Lamingtons with cream. The Global Greeting for week 8 was ‘Bula’. The word is heard everywhere in Fiji. Bula originates from the Fijian culture and means anything from hello, goodbye, welcome, love and more. It means life! A blessing of health and happiness. The canteen offered traditional Fijian Honey Cakes to the students. ON THIS DAY...... At the Friday Assemblies we also feature events of the past that happened “on this day”. As an example: On the 11th of June, our Church celebrated the feast day of the first Orthodox
L to R: Ms Kokinelis, Mrs Synesios, Elia Economou, Con Livissianis, Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Constantinos Kollias, Larissa Andrianakos, George Raptis, Mrs Stefanou, Mrs Katsogiannis and Christina Tsaconas. with patience, dignity and faith, never fearing to start again.
can best learn and best learn to lead.
No one is perfect, we all make mistakes. The 9th student principle states that we need to face our mistakes, learn from them and move on; progressing mind, body and soul, and making a positive contribution to society and to those around us. Leadership requires us to cultivate and pursue qualities such as patience, dignity and faith, not just possess them.
May our school and our society gain through leadership opportunities, like this one, and through the guidance of the patron Saint of our school; Saint Spyridon, I hope that you students, prefects, my peers and I, and all may advance in maturity, understanding and capability through the experience. On behalf of the Senior School Prefects, congratulations to all of you Prefects of the Junior School; and thank you Mr Thistlethwaite for reminding us to be grateful in our leadership endeavours and for your continual support. May God give you and your family strength.
At St Spyridon, we are blessed to be cradled in a paradoxical environment. To an extent, we are sheltered from things in the world that do not contribute to our betterment. But at the same time, we are informed and active members in our local and global community. Nurtured in this paradoxical setting we
Saints of China known as the 227 Chinese New Martyrs that were martyred during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900. Among them was Hieromartyr Metrophanes, the first Chinese Eastern Orthodox priest. On the 11 June it is also the feast day of St Luke the Surgeon who died in 1961. St Luke is a Russian Orthodox Saint who was an Archbishop as well as doctor who wrote not only books about our Faith but he also wrote a textbook titled “Essays on Purulent Surgery”. We are reminded that the Saints of our Church were real people, with real jobs who are an example and reveal God’s love for us by their life, miracles and writings. For week 8, there were two On This Day events… On the 16th of June, 1880, the Salvation Army was formed, who provide over 100,000 people with meals every single week in Australia. The second happened this week this year in 2017. News from Russia. A group of dolphins came up to the shore of a beach in Sotsi Russia bringing with them an object covered in mud. Once the mud was washed away, the object that was revealed
was an ancient Orthodox icon of Panagia, the Virgin Mary. Another new initiative has been to reflect on a Student Principle and its lived experience at school. Additionally, a quote of the week by either a Greek philosopher or saint, that has a special message for us to ponder and incorporate into our lives, mentioned at our Prefect Assembly and in the Prefects’ Column each fortnight. Furthermore, the Prefect body introduced a “Catch Cry of the Week”. The first one is something we always hear from Mrs Katsogiannis – “Be Good to One Another”. We suggested that everyone takes time to reflect on how the “Catch Cry” and the “Quote for the Week” is relevant to each of our lives and making an effort to put them into practice wherever we can, in our daily routines. The 2016 Year 12 Prefects, introduced the “Student of the Week” initiative last year and it was a resounding success, so we continued it this year. Constantinos Kollias College Captain STYLUS Page 3
Student Leadership & Academic Excellence ACER Scholarship Winners ACER Scholarship Winners Congratulations to Peter Nikas and Connor Giavis who have each been granted a two year Scholarship for continued study in Years 11 and 12.
Year 7, 2018 – Year 10, 2021 Congratulations to Larisa Arnautovic of Randwick Public School granted the 2017 four year scholarship to St Spyridon College. The scholarships are based on the results of ACER Exams held in February. There was a strong field of candidates from other primary schools, our Year 6 and Year 10 students. We commend all students who attempted this challenging exam. Mrs A. Katsogiannis Principal Senior School Peter Nikas
Connor Giavis
College Student Leaders 2017 We congratulate the following students who have been selected to lead the student body K-12 in 2017.
Front row L to R: Constantinos Gouskos, Giorge Gemisis, Charalambos Gavalas, Michael Constantopedos, Vasileios Kourliaftis, Joel Richardson, Georgio Svolos, Peter Giokas, Demetrios Avdalis, Adriana Drakoulis, Jamyson Gouveros (Junior School Captains), Mrs Stefanou, Father Steven Back row L to R: Father Sotiri, Sabrina Hijazi, Kristen Philips, Irene Roussis, Kerryanne Syros, Tina Ventoura, Deyarna Xenos, Larissa Andrianakos, Constantinos Kollias, George Raptis, Keti Bull, Joel Dean.
Constantinos Kollias College Captain
STYLUS Page 4
Larissa Andrianakos Vice Captain
George Raptis Senior Prefect
stylus
A New State-Of-The-Art Infants School On behalf of The Spyridon Parish Board of Directors and College Board of Governors we are pleased to announce that a Development Application for the construction of a new-stateof-the-art Infants School was lodged with Randwick City Council on Wednesday 22 February 2017. The new building will be constructed at 24 - 30 Bruce Street, Kingsford and will comprise purpose-built facilities that include the following:
• Infants School classrooms • Special Education rooms • Creative Arts centre • Music facilities • Performing Arts space • Greek Language centre • Multi-Purpose Centre • Undercover play area • Softfall play area
The new building represents significant financial investment in the future of our children’s education that will impact dynamically for many years to come. As you will see, the building will have a direct view of our St Spyridon Church. We ask for the Blessing of our Patron Saint Spyridon in undertaking this major project. In closing, we wish to thank you for your support in the past and your continuing faith in the future of St Spyridon College. We look forward to sharing with you the progress of this important project.
STYLUS Page 5
Greek Orthodox Board Of Education HSC 2016 Awardees From St Spyridon College
Mrs Elfa Lillis with Mariah Stavrou (Distinguished Achiever), Manuel Margelis and Sebastian Zois (Excellence in the HSC)
Dr Stavros Kyrimis, Consul General of Greece with Marina Dionysiou, Top Achiever in Course
Mrs Stefanou with Distinguished Achievers Keira Kipriotis, Charalambos Gavalas, Nicholas Hatzakos and Kiri Kondou
Mr Anthony Markakis with Rothopi Mr Harry Hirakis with Distinguished Achievers Aaron - Paul Kostantakis, Vasileios Kourliaftis Nicolaou, Top Achiever in Course. and Steffie Papadopoulos.
Mr Matthew Lepouris with Zografia Kanlis, Top Achiever in Course.
STYLUS Page 6
His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos with Demitra Nikas, All Round Achiever.
Opening Of Law Term 2017 Students of the Year 12 Legal Studies class attended the Annual Pan-Orthodox Church Service to mark the opening of the Law Term for 2017. The service was held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation on the 7th of February 2017. The procession to the Cathedral was led by the Chief Justice of New South Wales, the Hon. Tom Bathurst and commenced from the Rectory of the Archdiocese. Year
12 Legal Studies students had the opportunity to speak with prominent legal professionals such as the Hon. Tom Bathurst, who wished them well for their HSC examinations. Overall, the students felt privileged to have been invited to this event which solidified the connection between Orthodox faith and the Legal System. Mrs D Pavlakis Legal Studies Teacher
His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos and The Hon. Tom Bathurst, Chief Justice of NSW with Year 12 Legal Studies class at the opening of the Law Term for 2017.
STYLUS Page 7
GOA National Schools Event 2017
We extend commendations to the teachers who organised and worked hard to ensure that our participation in this year’s GOANSE brought credit to them, our students and our College.
Attn: St Euphemia College Details: College Crest Colours: Pantone 282C White Type: Myriad Semi Bold
STYLUS Page 8
We thank Mrs E. Lillis, Head of School, All Saints Grammar and her staff for hosting such an excellent event.
Focus on Past Students Theodore Kipriotis - HSC Class 2013
My history at St Spyridon College
clients grow, protect and recover value.
• Started in Kindergarten 2001
Within the firm, I work in the Forensic Technology team, where we specialise in identifying, preserving, analysing and managing electronically stored information and digital evidence for use in litigation, cyber-breaches, corporate and regulatory investigations.
• HSC Class 2013 with ATAR 95.05 • College Prefect • Training students participating in ISA Swimming Carnival Tertiary Studies • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with Distinction, University of Technology Sydney Current Company: KordaMentha: Position: Forensic Analyst KordaMentha is Asia-Pacific’s trusted advisers in forensic, real estate, corporate advisory and restructuring. The firm consists of almost 400 specialists across Asia-Pacific with diverse backgrounds, including accounting, real estate and information technology, through to agriculture, law enforcement and the c-suite. Whilst working together to solve the complex challenges facing corporations, financiers, lawyers, private investors and government, the firm aims to help
“Looking back at my time at St Spyridon College, it is amazing to see the focus placed on the importance of values. Aside from striving towards academic excellence, guiding students to establish a solid set of moral principles is what builds people with great character”. With support from a committed team of teachers and members of the school community, this is a quality that all students are instilled with from the day they enter until the day they leave. My most memorable moment during my final year at school was when a teacher told me to “be yourself, do not change, and act with integrity”, and this piece of advice plays a fundamental role in my career and all other aspects of my life.
STYLUS Page 9
Focus on our Educators Profile of Mrs Vicky Grillakis
Subjects:
• Technology • Design and Technology • Food Technology • Textile technology • Community and Family studies • Hospitality VET
Qualifications:
• Bachelor of Education – Secondary – Technological and Applied Studies (Sydney University) • Certificate I in Hospitality • Certificate II in Kitchen Operations • Certificate II in Food and Beverage • Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training
Roles and responsibilities:
• Started teaching in 1998 • Before St Spyridon College, taught at Caringbah Selective High • Teaching Curriculum 7 – 12 • Planning, Programming and Consultation writing to meet syllabus requirements • HSC Marker – Food technology • Assessor VET course – Hospitality • Team Leader TAS • Mentor to new teachers to College • Year adviser 2007
Profile of Mr Darren Giles
Subjects:
Qualifications:
• Science (Years 7-10) • Chemistry (Years 11-12)
• Bachelor of Science – Macquarie University • Diploma of Education – Macquarie University
Roles and responsibilities:
• Teaching Science Curriculum (Years 7-12) • Coordinator for the NSW Titration Competition (2012-2017) • HSC Marker for Chemistry (2011-2017) • HSC Judge for Chemistry (2015) • ISA Basketball Coach (Grand Finalist 2010-2012) • Supervising Teacher for Student Science Teachers from UNSW • Planning and program writing to meet syllabus requirements
STYLUS Page 10
Academic Endeavour UNSW Royal Australian Chemical Institute
Ten Chemistry students from Year 12 along with two Year 11 students, competed against other schools in Sydney in the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) Titration Competition. For those who don’t know, titration is a procedure used to find the concentration of a solution, by adding a certain volume of it to a known volume of another solution whose concentration is given. A formula is then used to find the unknown concentration. In the competition, teams that found a final concentration closest to the actual concentration of the solution were awarded the most points. Four teams (each with three members) represented St Spyridon College at UNSW where the competition took place. All of
us were very nervous and excited on the day, but we put this aside and did our very best and enjoyed the experience. Since this competition is State wide, and every venue uses the same concentrations, final results are yet to be released. On the day it was revealed that one St Spyridon team (Joel Dean, Vasileios Kourliaftis and I Joel Richardson) achieved a merit result and finished in fourth place out of all the other teams that competed at UNSW. Well done to everyone who competed and I’m sure we will see more high results once final scores are released. Joel Richardson Year 12 Chemistry
HICES Debating Competition In June, the junior and senior debating team visited Thomas Hassall High School to compete in the last round of debates before the final rounds accompanied by Mrs Laskas and Mrs Mulligan. The junior team had to argue against the motion that ‘all new suburbs in Australia should be given indigenous names.’ It was an incredibly challenging debate and the team presented well formulated arguments in an incredibly competent manner. Unfortunately, they just missed out to the opposing team Emmanuel High School in a ‘very close debate.’ It was a delight to see how much the students have grown in confidence in both forming their rebuttals and speeches,
and presenting their arguments. The senior team were asked to argue against the statement ‘English should be an optional subject in the senior years of high school.’ Nicholas Drakoulis, Jade Capitanelis, Stella Ktenas and Eleni Preketes presented a passionate case including many sophisticated arguments which resulted in a final win for this very competent team. I would like to congratulate our senior team on winning 4 out of 4 debates. They will now go on to compete in the final rounds in Term 3. We wish them the best of luck. Mrs E Mulligan - English/Drama Teacher
Back row – Senior team: Nicholas Drakoulis, Chloe Drougas, Georgia Bull, Jade Capitanelis, Eleni Preketes and Mrs Mulligan. Front row – Junior Team: Mrs Laskas, Teoni Antonopoulos, Elena Kaldis, Christina Pascalis, Maria-Angela Patsalis, Giannis Keramitzis and Billy Bourdaniotis. STYLUS Page 11
Hellenic Ripples
Appreciating
the
Culture
2017
Event
The Arts Exhibition 2017 Congratulations to our teachers and students for this year’s Art Exhibition. Your work was outstanding.
STYLUS Page 12
stylus
STYLUS Page 13
Technology and Engineering Year 7 Technology – Building Bridges Year 7 Technology students were introduced to the importance and pervasiveness of bridges for connecting people to resources and places, with references to historical and current day examples. In learning about bridge types – arch, beam, truss and suspension – students explored the effects of tensile and compressive forces, along with investigating the calculations that go into designing bridges and testing their strength. Mrs V Grillakis Team Leader Technology and Creative Arts
UNSW Engineering Work Experience “During the last week of Term 2, we attended a week-long Engineering Work Experience Workshop run by UNSW. Throughout the week we were exposed to various fields of engineering including geotechnical, civil and water and waste engineering. Each day we ventured out on field trips to actual sites so we could have a first-hand experience in the field of engineering. A highlight was a visit to Barangaroo, in the heart of the city. This multi-billion dollar project is world leading in sustainability, a hot topic in
todays society especially considering all the talk around global warming. An interesting fact that was new to most of us was that 50% of the Barangaroo precinct was going to be dedicated to parkland and open-space for the public. Overall, this once-in-a-lifetime experience was an informative eye-opener into the various fields of engineering and will surely have an impact on our future career choices.” Connor Giavis & Adam Geortsis - Year 10
Fashion Design Year 9 and 10 Design and Technology students visited the Whitehouse Institute of Design to complete a series of skill based workshops. Students interacted with college tutors who taught them the ins and outs of fashion illustration and interior architectural design. Angelique Lambrinos of Year 9 Design and Technology was awarded with a 3 day school holiday workshop in fashion design to further develop her outstanding skills. Mrs E Hatzopoulos & Miss T Zervos Design and Technology Teachers
Angelique Lambrinos
STYLUS Page 14
Minefields And Miniskirts In June, the Year 11 Drama students performed the play by Terence O’Connell, ‘Minefields and Miniskirts’, which was derived from the novel by Siobhan McHugh. The production is brought to life by Bianca Frazis, Maria Krassas, Eleni Mastroperos and Erin Giaras, who play four women who served in the Vietnam War, sharing their real-life experiences and the terrors that occurred. It helps give a voice to all the women that suffered in the war, and let them share what they went through. The production demonstrated all of the fear and empathy that these women experienced, giving a sense of actually being in the exact situation.
It has been a great experience for me to work on the production team with Frances-Lee Pascalis. The lights and sound effects enhance the play and bring a sense of the mood and atmosphere of the Vietnam War. Special thanks to the director of the play, Drama teacher Ms Lindley who helped make the production effective and worked hard day and night for it to be an enjoyable and heart wrenching experience for the audience. All thanks to the whole cast for taking us through the roller-coaster of emotions that this play portrays. Sasha Douglas Year 9
STYLUS Page 15
Community Action Address at the ANZAC Day Commemorative Service by Mrs Irene Koutsoukis We are all gathered here in our sacred War Memorial Church St Spyridon, to commemorate and pay our respects to the fallen in war. With the leadership of the very Reverend Father Steven Scoutas, we acknowledge the sacrifices made by those in time of violent conflict. St Spyridon Parish has made it a mission to organise this annual event that pays homage to the ANZAC spirit and to ensure that new generations of young Australians continue to participate and to ultimately become the custodians of this important and vital tradition. The University of New South Wales Army Regiment has been a faithful participant in this service, and we thank them for their attendance once more. It is with deep gratitude and great honour that I stand here before you and in the presence of the Holy alter of our beautiful Church St Spyridon. The opportunity to address the ANZAC DAY service was met with a humbling feeling, as this singular day has a special meaning for many of us. I would like to acknowledge and thank Mrs Efrosini Stefanou-Haag, our College Head, Mrs Amelia Katsogiannis, our Senior School Principal and Mrs Christina Tsaconas from the St Spyridon Parish for entrusting me with the task of addressing you today. I would like to acknowledge, the University of New South Wales Army Regiment once more as my late husband, Michael Koutsoukis, served within its ranks whilst he was still a university student. A special mention also, of my late father, Nikolas Tsoukalas, who was responsible for fostering a love and respect for the ANZACS and the ANZAC legend from an early age. History has taught us that the Battle of Gallipoli was a time and place where young men suffered the impact and consequences of the political decisions made by those in power. But it also taught us that the human spirit is indelible. Gallipoli was chapter in the catastrophic event that was World War 1, but on the other hand it brought to fruition the birth of an Australian identity. The unforgettable valour and bravery of the ANZACS remains with us today - their legacy is our pride and our strength. In order to understand the ANZAC legacy we must examine the historic events that foreground its marking on our Australian persona. When World War 1 broke out in July 1914, Australia was a young country from the perspective of its European heritage and many individuals believed that it STYLUS Page 16
was their duty to join the Australian military forces and to embark on the long journey to the battlefields of Gallipoli and later onto France. Charles Bingham who was a Private in the 1st Australian Casualty Station relayed to historian Harvey Broadbent in 1985; We were so tied to Great Britain that when she was in trouble it was automatic, a feeling of ‘this is our duty’. That’s why I think that the majority enlisted. Some out of loyalty, some searching for adventure… The reasons for sending the ANZAC troops in aid of Great Britain were decided by Winston Churchill, who was the First Lord of the Admiralty in London. Churchill’s plan was a strategic one designed to create a new front in order to stretch Germany’s resources in fighting the war. However, Churchill’s ambitions were quickly destroyed; despite the fact the military plan included involving several coordinated landings on beaches along the Dardanelles. The Ottoman Turks were waiting. According to historian Peter Hart; Gallipoli was a campaign driven by wishfulfilment rather than professional assessment of strategy and tactics required. In exercising his power Churchill had indirectly contributed to the rise of the ANZAC legend. Because of miscalculations by those in command, the Anzac forces landed on the 25th April 1915 approximately 2 kilometres north of their marked target. This was to be an ominous warning, of what awaited the young men from Australia and New Zealand. Mustafa Kemal, who was an officer in the Turkish army at that time, and his forces were lying in wait in defensive positions high on the hilltops above the beach. And thus a legend was born. Reliable sources from those that participated in the Gallipoli landings reveal that there would be no respite from the fighting between the ANZACS and the Turks. Private Roy Howard Denning from Yass, New South Wales wrote to his mother; For an hour or more I struggled on slipping every now and again right down the side where the earth was very loose… I found it very slow work my pack and rifle and shovel etc.… but what we accomplished that day we ourselves marvel at now… All day long the fire of the big guns was terrific, the crack of rifles incessant. All day stretcher bearers carried away the wounded down the rugged paths… I thought I was justified in being an Australian… Thus it was the Australians
stylus who passed their first day and night on the battlefield. The fearlessness and bravery of men like Roy Howard Denning have been engraved on our Australian essence from that time. The Australian War Memorial cites the Gallipoli campaign cost Australia alone 26,111 casualties, including 8,141 deaths. The battle lasted eight months; by December London had decided to abandon the Gallipoli campaign. So how does a military disaster some 15,742 kms far from Australia become such an integral part of the Australian psyche? The Battle for Gallipoli introduced Australia to the world. In doing so it showed what stuff Australians were made of. It revealed the bravery and loyalty of the Australian individual. Bravery by facing up to the prospect of the ultimate sacrifice, and the fierce loyalty they showed to the mother country and their mates. The Gallipoli experience represents the taking of innocence and its transformation to a reality that the world is far from perfect. In fighting for their values, Australians were able to see exotic foreign places and experience cultures very different from their own, setting a foundation for an eagerness and curiosity for discovering the world in the future. These daring qualities illuminated to Australians their sense of place in the world. It allowed people to develop national pride and to view Australia as a united nation. This is not glorifying war but a way of commemorating those who fought for what they believed in and how they contributed to our unique Australian character. No discussion about Gallipoli can ignore the contribution of Indigenous Australians. The Australian War Memorial acknowledges that perhaps fifty Aboriginal men enlisted and served at Gallipoli, and that thirteen died there. This sacrifice is all the more significant as these people were not even recognised as citizens in their own country. Ironically, for those who joined the AIF, they were able to enjoy equal treatment and to receive equal pay. One such man was Ben Murray. Ben Murray survived and returned to Australia and worked along the Murray River. According to Flinders Ranges Research he made prized contributions to the mapping of important Aboriginal sites by anthropologists and linguists. In keeping the ANZAC flame burning, Australian classrooms teach students about the history of the battle of Gallipoli, its association with important human ideals and the Australian identity. Students engage with the soldier’s wartime experience and how this experience impacted on a sense of nationhood and national identity. Students are guided to examine sources from the time that reveal a people who were keen to take their place in World History and later changed by the horrors of war. The silence and reverence as we read a soldier’s diary or letter or view a film such as Gallipoli is often deafening. Consequently, the process of learning forces the students to question the place and nature of war in our contemporary world.
At St Spyridon College our English programs also add further understanding to the Gallipoli experience as various war poets are brought under the microscope. Students study not only romantic interpretations of war but also the stark images of battle shaped by poets. In Year 12 the English Standard group have studied the English poet Wilfred Owen. The students consequently associate the shared experience of war regardless of perspective and background. In his poetry Owen painted the human body on a tattered landscape on the Western Front. In Anthem for Doomed Youth he wrote; What candles may be held to speed them all? Not in hands of boys, but in their eyes Shall shine the holy glimmers of goodbyes The teacher can be grateful that she does not have to be a voice of government propaganda, as the school master must be in the German novel ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT. Remarque’s schoolmaster urges his young protégés to enlist and to do their bit for the Fatherland upon the day of their graduation. In the novel REGENERATION by Pat Barker, Rivers a historical figure is portrayed in his role as a therapist at Craiglockhart Hospital in Scotland, who is responsible for treating soldiers with shellshock. Rivers’ moral dilemma becomes apparent to the reader as he struggles to continue to do his duty and what he comes to believe is that the government is conducting a Godless futile conflict. Once more, the parallels with Gallipoli are discernible. As many of the people here today, I’m privileged to be of Greek Orthodox Australian heritage. We are doubly fortunate that we have had the opportunity to merge our values and identity with the inclusion of Australian qualities that can be attributed to the brave men who sailed to Gallipoli. The Greek migrants brought with them virtues that Plato identified as part of ethical and moral behaviour- wisdom, courage, moderation and justice. Our Christian forefathers expanded on these virtues by linking them directly to God. In an article entitled VIRTUE IN CHRIST – A GIFT AND AN OBLIGATION, Archbishop Stylianos explained this idea for a contemporary audience. He stated, all good qualities are in fact blessings from the sources of life and immortality, who is God alone. With our shared western traditions and values, the virtues that the ANZACS put into practice will remain forever in our hearts. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them. Mrs I. Koutsoukis Senior History and English Teacher
STYLUS Page 17
Faith And Tradition Honouring our Traditions
In May we were honoured to host a visit form the Presidential Guard of the Hellenic Republic. This event was attended by all Year 7 -12 students and teachers, as well as special guests including Rev. Father Steven Scoutas, Parish President Mr Con Livissianis, board members, Mr Con Pavlou, Mr Elia Economou, Councillors Andrews and Stavrinos, Mr & Mrs Achilleos. Members of the band performed a traditional song «Το Μαντίλι» to create warmth and a welcoming environment for the proceedings. STYLUS Page 18
The College Captain, Constantinos Kollias, gave a moving speech of welcome in reply to the address of Captain Theofanis Kasimatis. Over morning tea, the «Εύζωνες» spontaneously joined our students to sing traditional songs. We were treated to a virtuoso performance on the piano from one of the very talented and excellent young Εύζωνες. We extend sincere thanks to the Hellenic Club of NSW for organising this memorable visit to our School.
25th March Commemoration
STYLUS Page 19
Mother’s night out Parents and Friends
Our Mothers’ Night Out turned out to be a huge success and a night for breaking records. We raised an amazing $17,000! Funds that will certainly benefit our school. But just as importantly as the night promised, we also had lots of fun celebrating Mothers’ Day with our friends at Al Aseel Alexandria. Through laughter and screaming (when someone won a prize) we ate, drank and purchased an STYLUS Page 20
abundance of tickets, tiaras and cards for the raffles. A heartfelt THANK YOU for your continual and faithful support of our fundraising events. And a special thank you to all who donated a prize and made this night extra special. Erenie Bourdaniotis P & F President
stylus
Palm Sunday Lunch Palm Sunday lunch was held in the St Spyridon Church Hall in April. The event was at capacity this year and we thank all who supported and attended this annual event by the P&F for the St Spyridon Parish. Funds raised for this event was $5600. A special mention and thank you to our wonderful donors once again for this event and of course to the P&F members who tirelessly assisted with set-up on the day before and on the day. It was great teamwork!
Trivia Night THANK YOU to all the wonderful parents and friends who attended our first fundraiser for the year, Trivia Night. Our host for the evening, also an ex-parent of the College,
George Magoulias did a fantastic job once again testing the trivial pathways of our grey matter. This evening raised $4650 which is a fantastic result!
STYLUS Page 21
Junior School Focus Easter Preparations It was wonderful to share the Easter Focus assembly with our St Spyridon family including our Reverend Fathers Steven and Sotiri, our Parish President Mr Livissianis. The children conveyed the Easter message so respectfully and with much love. We thank the teachers for preparing with
the children all the items and especially to ka Ieroklis who shares the Greek Orthodox traditions with the children even in her retirement. Mrs A. Synesios - Principal Junior School
Junior School Futsal Regional Competition On Tuesday 16th May, our College participated at the FUTSAL SUTHERLAND REGION at Menai. Our Senior Girls, Senior Boys and Junior Boys Teams competed against a variety of different schools. Unfortunately our Junior Girls were unable to participate due to a lack of teams. The Senior Boys Team performed extraordinarily well, successful in making the Finals undefeated and becoming Champions of 2017. The Senior Girls Team played very well, improving at every game and being Runners STYLUS Page 22
Up of the competition for 2017. Congratulations to all the teams on a successful day and especially the Senior Girls Team and the Senior Boys Team for progressing on to the State Championships to compete for the Title which will be held in August at Penrith. A huge thank you to Mr Amditis and Mrs Galanis and Mrs Mulligan for coaching the teams and teaching them very important skills that have managed to position us into the Finals. Mr J Volas - Sports Co-Ordinator Junior School
Year 5 and 6 Visits To The Senior School At the end of last Term Year 5 and 6 Junior School students visited the Senior School to get a feel for what it is like to be a high school student. Taster lesson in Science, Maths, History, Visual Art, Drama, Food Technology and Sport were sampled. The student’s comments throughout the day were very positive and showed that they really enjoyed their experience. In the second semester Year 4 will begin their introduction to life at the Senior School. Ms G Kokinelis Dean of Middle School
STYLUS Page 23
Snapshots of a Sporting Life ISA Football Representatives In other exciting football news we had 4 boys selected to represent ISA at the U16’s CIS trials. With over 40 boys trialing the following students were selected and we wish them all the best of luck in the CIS tournament/trial. Mr F Kaldis Boys Sports Nathan Adam
Charlie Christofides Jonathon Lynch
Spiros Zafiropoulos
ISA Swimming Carnival Finishing first in the Junior boys, Intermediate boys and Senior Boys, the team completed a clean sweep in the pool winning the overall trophy for the meet in the division 2 competition for the first time. There was much to be proud of in the boys’ individual and team performances a sense of relief and joy knowing that a long term goal had been achieved. Congratulations to all the swimmers for their commitment and determination to be the best that they can. All the boys competed admirably and were a credit to their College. Our most prolific swimmer was once again Nicholas Frazis who was placed 1st in all the events on the programme and was the boys’ swimmer of the meet.
I take this opportunity to congratulate and commend our two senior boys swimmers who competed for the school for the last time. Both George Contominas and Michael Constantopedos have been excellent leaders for the school’s swimming teams over their many years at the College. In this their final year this excellent school result is a fitting way to end their swimming for the College. Many thanks are extended to Miss Flokis and Theodore Kipriotis for training the squad but also for increasing the passion and determination of all the students. Many thanks goes to Mrs Kefalouros and the Year 10 students who assisted in the hosting of the ISA Swimming Carnival.
ISA Netball Grandfinals This year was one of the most successful Netball seasons to date with an outstanding 5 out of 6 netball teams qualifying for the ISA grandfinals. After defeating Barker in extra time in the Semi-finals the Open A girls versed Oakhill College in the Grandfinal and were unfortunately defeated. However, the score was not reflective of the extraordinary effort displayed by the girls in particular the defensive effort produced by Christina Kilias and Tina Ventoura no doubt one their best performances of the season. The Open B team won against Oakhill College a team they had not defeated throughout the season. The Junior B team consisting of Year 8 girls had the difficult task of winning back to back premierships were defeated by St Andrews Cathedral School. The Intermediate girls were defeated by an undefeated Redlands team. One of the most exciting journeys for these young girls involved in the Junior C team. After finishing in 4th place and defeating 1st place in double extra time in their Semi-final they quickly become the most talked about team in the ISA community. The grandfinal was also going to be difficult as they were playing St Andrews Cathedral another team that STYLUS Page 24
had not defeated throughout the season. These girls continue to surprise us with their tenacious spirit and their will to win ultimately defeating SACS. The level of improvement shown by each of these girls was outstanding and they should be extremely proud of their efforts. None of this success would have been possible without the support and dedication from the Netball coaching team. This year we included extra morning training sessions and had Cassie Georgiou (2014 graduate) present at all sessions to assist the girls with her valuable knowledge. Thank you to all our coaches Cassie Georgiou, Ms Flokis, Mr Meintanis, Nansia Koukounaris, Georgia Koukounaris and Lia Albanakis for their commitment to the girls each week throughout the season. Furthermore, thank you to the Year 12 students Christiana Kilias, Larissa Andrianakos and the Girls Sports Captain Tina Ventoura are to be commended not only for their service to the girls’ sports program over the past 6 years but for their exceptional leadership shown on and off the court. We look forward to another successful season in 2018. Ms K O’Shea - Girls Sport
stylus ISA Opens Football The Open Boys Football acknowledging the huge crowd that came to support them in their 2 – 1 victory against St Patrick’s College in the ISA. The crowd not only consisted
of current students from the College but also many past students came to watch this traditional fixture.
Netball Junior B - Left Netball Intermediate - Centre Netball Junior C - ISA Champions
Netball Open A - Left Netball Open B - ISA Champions
STYLUS Page 25
It’s all about building young lives
Photography: Nick Bourdo Photography, Mr A. Condous
1130 Anzac Parade, Maroubra NSW 2035, PO Box 462, Maroubra NSW 2035 Phone: 61 2 9311 3340 Fax: 61 2 9311 4532 Email: admin@stspyridon.nsw.edu.au Website: stspyridon.nsw.edu.au Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, St Spyridon Parish of South-East Sydney A.C.N. 000 410 891 A.B.N. 84 480 080 247 CRICOS Provider Numbers: Junior School ~ Years K-6 ~ 061558A Senior School ~ Years 7-12 ~ 02319E