St Catherine's News Spring 2022

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Incorporating
the Old Girls’ Bulletin | SPRING 2022
Join the conversation Editor Mrs Jodie Naismith Design Ms Ruth Gavin Cover Photo Cast members from Urinetown, L-R: Ashleigh Jakobovits, Rachel Carton, Cecelia Lau, Ava Colosimo, Charlotte Aston, Lilla Barrington and Brydie Read Contributors Thank you to all Early Learning Centre, Junior School and Senior School staff and SCOGA (St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association) The Bulletin Editor Sarah O’Brien (’02) For editorial queries, feedback or change of address, please email marketing@stcatherines.net.au For the latest St Catherine’s news and regular updates visit www.stcatherines.net.au For extra photos and video, read St Catherine’s News eMag online at www.stcatherines.net. au/about-us/publications 02 Leadership 04 Early Learning Centre 06 Junior School 08 Before Contact 10 Student Programs 12 Visual Arts 14 Senior School Production 16 Rowing 18 Mother & Daughter 20 Athlete Development Academy 22 Gala Concert 24 Snowsports 26 Hockey 27 Sofya Vainer Tribute 28 Adventure Camps 30 Boarding 31 Archives 32 Our Community 34 Foundation 36 Old Girls’ Bulletin
“It is often through the individual endeavour of participating in activities such as sport, performing arts, debating and community service, that children and young teenagers shape their strong sense of identity.”
MICHELLE CARROLL, PRINCIPAL Henley Royal Regatta Champions 2022

One of St Catherine’s School’s greatest strengths is our approach to educating and nurturing the whole child. As we prepare young girls for their futures, we do so with a clear understanding that learning takes place both within

From the Chair of Council

our academic programs and through lived experiences outside the classroom.

In 2022, it has been wonderful to see the return of St Catherine’s diverse co-curricular program, after two years of COVID cancellations.

This year, as a School community we have witnessed amazing individual and team achievements from our St Catherine’s girls. Our First Eight Rowing Crew, now the fastest schoolgirls VIII in the world, our Snowsports Teams crowned National and State Champions, our Senior Hockey Team are GSV Champions, our A Grade Team 2 reached the Quarter Finals of the DAV Schools’ Competition and

our musicians displayed exceptional performances at our Gala Concert.

We also embrace the opportunity to immerse our students once more in study tours, exchanges, and adventure camps, providing them a wide range of opportunities to extend their cultural understanding, broaden perspectives and enhance their personal awareness.

This year, St Catherine’s School also officially opened The Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre, providing an outstanding, specialised venue for our Performing Arts students that complements the professionalism and standard of performances by St Catherine’s

From the Principal

Whilst St Catherine’s was applauded for ensuring an exemplary continuation of our academic learning programs throughout the lockdown periods, I always remained personally concerned about the loss of participation in other activities. Across the globe, the COVID pandemic stole a generation of children away from their school camps, netball games and music concerts.

We have dedicated this Spring Edition of St Catherine’s News as a celebration of the engagement in our co-curricular programs this year.

Re-creating a ‘culture of participation’ was defined as a key focus for the School this year. Indeed, St Catherine’s is in a unique position to encourage girls to believe in their capacity to step into new activities, and by embracing our small school size, girls are always selected, and girls always lead.

Over almost a decade at St Catherine’s, I feel fortunate to witness, time and again, girls participating in Sport, Performing Arts,

Chess, Debating and outdoor education pursuits that act as fuel for learning –stimulating creative thought, improving self-confidence, leadership, and organisational skills, and importantly, developing students’ talents, self-discipline and offering opportunities to pursue lifelong interests. Such activities have tremendous educational importance for the positive wellbeing and all-round development of every child.

With the noted post-pandemic decline in teen mental health and wellbeing across Melbourne, I have been interested to learn of the studies referencing the changing behaviours of Icelandic teenagers as means to improving their wellbeing. In the mid-90s, Icelandic teenagers were among the heaviest drinkers and smokers in Europe. Today, Iceland tops European countries for the healthiest lifestyles for

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students, highlighted during the Senior School production of Urinetown, the Concerto Concert and Years 7&8 Musical Curious Comedies

Following the successful completion of The Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre, Phase three of the Dorothy Pizzey Centre redevelopment has commenced to deliver a high-performance Sports Centre for our students.

I am uplifted by the stories of individual pursuit, teamwork and the St Catherine’s spirit showcased within this edition of St Catherine’s News. We truly are a remarkable School with a remarkable community at its heart.

teenagers (13-year-olds)! The research concluded that engaging young people in dance, music, drawing or sport, creates a biochemical process in the brain, proved to be a significant and healthy solution to reducing stress.

Co-curricular activities have also been shown to enhance problem-solving, enable expression of emotion, increase adaptability, and contribute to the development of interpersonal skills (Fares et al., 2016). They also relate to the development of self-regulatory mechanisms underpinning psychological and social outcomes, which is of particular importance to this age group as they transition into adult roles (Guilmette et al., 2019).

Exercise is widely recognised as a major contributor to health and wellness. We know if girls are physically active, they will be healthier, happier, have higher self-esteem and body confidence. So too are the benefits of participating in

creative activities, including music, which is known to reduce anxiety and significantly improve wellbeing.

With the reimagination of the Dorothy Pizzey Centre commencing this year, our Performing Arts students have relished the opportunity to sing, dance and act in our new contemporary Black Box Theatre; The Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre. The next phase of the re-development will include a contemporary indoor sports court, a dedicated High-Performance Training Studio, inclusive of a fit-for-purpose ergometer training area, and a Little Gym housing our PMP and Tumbling programs for the enjoyment of our younger students.

Undoubtedly, creating a culture of participation is instrumental to the success of St Catherine’s Sport Programs, with no better example than the historic win by our 2022 First VIII at the Henley Royal Regatta. In my 30 years of education, I have never known one activity to reach so deeply into

a school community, uniting generations of St Catherine’s families with a sense of pride that was mirrored widely in educational sectors across Australia. Indeed, the Henley winning experience has connected and inspired our St Catherine’s community, and become a lesson in dedication, striving for one’s goals, believing in oneself and the collective effort of a team for us all.

I trust you will enjoy St Catherine’s News, an edition that reflects the School’s endeavour and success in re-creating a culture in which being active and participating in the life of our School is valued and treasured.

Michelle Carroll Principal

Fares, J., Saadeddin, Z., Al Tabosh, H., Aridi, H., El Mouhayyar, C., Koleilat, M. K., et al. (2016). Extracurricular activities associated with stress and burnout in preclinical medical students.

J. Epidemiol. Glob. Health 6, 177–185. doi: 10.1016/j. jegh.2015.10.003

Guilmette, M., Mulvihill, K., Villemaire-Krajden, R., and Barker, E. T. (2019). Past and present participation in extracurricular activities is associated with adaptive self-regulation of goals, academic success, and emotional wellbeing among university students Learn. Individ. Differ. 73, 8–15. doi: 10.1016/j.lindif.2019.04.006

LEADERSHIP
3

Young children are naturally curious and have an innate desire to explore the world around them. When they explore their surroundings in a hands-on manner, this ignites questions and a need to investigate.

This practice of questioning and trying new experiences lays the foundation for learning in early childhood and continues throughout the children’s lives.

STEM is the exploration of the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. These areas of learning are incorporated into our Early Learning Program

both in a planned and naturally occurring way. They are also inter-connected as the children explore these disciplines in a multi-modal manner. Incidental opportunities for the children to engage in STEM learning occurs daily. The discovery of a butterfly in the garden can lead to a conversation and investigation into life cycles. A collaborative block building session can become an engineering exercise as the children problem solve the height, weight, angles, and balance of their building. An interest in the prehistoric world can be explored through research on the iPad. Play with natural materials and loose parts can lead to a mathematical experience in counting, sorting, and classification.

LEARNING

St Catherine’s News Autumn 20184
& DISCOVERY THROUGH STEM St Catherine’s Spring 2022

Starting Blocks, 2022

Although STEM experiences can occur spontaneously within the classroom program, there are also experiences that are intentionally planned by our educators. Classroom STEM learning experiences are linked to the children’s current projects and inquiries. When undertaking an inquiry into volcanoes, educators may plan a science experiment for the children to learn and experience how a volcano erupts. An investigation into the elements of winter may involve the children experimenting with melting ice and learning about liquids and solids. Opportunities for digital research are facilitated by educators and linked directly to the children’s current investigations.

As an extension of our classroom STEM learning, the children in our 4-year-old classes also have opportunities to connect with the STEM Lab in the Junior School. Through our STEM Program, the children have been able to extend on their classroom learning by experiencing a range of connected STEM experiences in the Lab and access STEM-specific equipment and resources. The children have begun exploring simple coding using the Bee-bots and have been learning about electrical circuits. They also engage in STEM experiences that enable them to explore the concepts of virtual reality, construction/ engineering, sustainability and more.

Learning in STEM occurs every day through the children’s observations, explorations, investigations, experimentations, and play. The children are naturally curious and amazed by the discoveries they make. This sparks a genuine love for learning.

Ms Sarah Bethune Head of Early Learning Centre
ELC
“Hands-on inquirybased STEM education lays the foundation for social and emotional intelligence, raises children’s confidence, and fosters their abilities to plan and reflect.”
“All the world is a laboratory to the inquiring mind.”
Martin Henry Fischer
5

FOUNDATION

Buil t from a of care

In Barbreck we believe the role of our School, and our teachers, is to develop happy and relaxed young girls who are engaged and connected to their learning and each other. Creating this as our conditions for success ensures the drive to achieve develops naturally within all our girls.

As a school we are proud to be the number one girls’ school in Victoria. Within Barbreck we are also proud to acknowledge our academic success through our NAPLAN results placing our students above the state and national averages in Literacy and Numeracy in all tested Year levels. However, what I am most proud of is that we achieved this success without placing pressure on our students. Earlier this year, students in Years 3 to 6 participated in the Australian Resilient Youth Survey. Results from the Survey

demonstrate that in Barbreck, our girls are happy, have a positive mindset, are engaged, have hope and feel cared for. Particularly, St Catherine’s achieved a score of 81 to the question: Is there someone at your school who cares for you? Against the national average of 66 for single-sex schools.

Comparison of our School’s 2019 to 2022 Survey results also shows an improvement in feelings of wellbeing, happiness, and resilience, even with two years of COVID lockdowns and remote learning.

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In Barbreck we believe:

• Confident, relaxed, and happy girls inspire others

• Small steps in learning lead to good learning outcomes

• Pressure is counter-productive

• Girls learn best when they are relaxed

• Happy and safe learning environments encourage girls to challenge themselves

• Learning should be exciting

• Every girl has unique talents that are celebrated within our Barbreck community

In Barbreck we encourage our girls to:

• Try their best

• Strive to reach their personal goals

• Learn from mistakes

• Ask questions to deepen their understanding

• Give things a go

• Extend themselves –both academically and across our co-curricular activities

• Challenge their thinking

• Learn from others

This increase can be attributed to the wonderful work of our teachers, personalised learning for every student, our wellbeing and health programs, and a positive and supportive school environment which has been created from a foundation of care, compassion, and kindness.

In Barbreck our girls work hard to achieve their personal goals. They are willing to explore and extend their interests and capabilities within our academic and co-curricular offerings. They are supported

by passionate, experienced and engaged staff, celebrating their individual achievements. They are guided and supported to reach their goals through our comprehensive learning programs within vibrant learning spaces and facilities.

To me, our Barbreck girls are happy and achieving well.

JUNIOR SCHOOL 7

Strengthening the representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions within St Catherine’s curriculum forms an important element of our School’s commitment to reconciliation. It also fosters the curiosity and empathy of our students as they develop their understanding of the rich history of First Nations Australians and their cultures.

In Year 4 HASS (Humanities and Social Studies), students developed an historical understanding of First Nations Australians through a research inquiry on Indigenous life before first contact with European settlers. Students explored the proposition ‘What

CONTACT Before

At St Catherine’s we take pride in laying the foundations for a respectful and culturally aware generation of young Australians that respect our shared land.

can we learn about Indigenous life from traditional and sacred sites and artefacts?’

The girls developed their critical thinking skills applying their questioning, listening, wondering, and discovering skills to complete their research investigation through examining:

• How First Nations Australians’ lives before contact were different from today;

• Survival techniques used to provide food and shelter;

• The importance of visual and oral storytelling to share cultures, beliefs, and the past; and

• The diversity of language groups.

When the research was complete, the girls synthesised their findings in a report, which was then presented to the class. This facilitated a creative and communal sharing of knowledge and improved the collective understanding of all the students on this important topic.

Kunwinjku Dreaming Stories were also shared during reading time to further develop the girls’ appreciation of the use of oral storytelling in Indigenous culture as an essential element of connecting with and belonging to country.

At the start of these lessons, the girls paid respect to the local community and nation(s) through the Barbreck Acknowledgement of

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Barbreck Acknowledgement of Country

We would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation who are the traditional custodians of the land on which our campus stands.

We would also like to pay respect to the Wurundjeri Elders, past, present and emerging and extend this respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait people from other Communities.

Country, that acknowledges the custodians of the land in which their learning takes place.

Through these learning opportunities our students gain a stronger understanding and appreciation of the First Nations Australians’ unique belief systems and ways of being, knowing, thinking, and doing linked to physical and spiritual interconnections.

We look forward to further strengthening this knowledge, awareness, and respect.

FIRST NATIONS
Year 4
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CURIOSITY TO EXPLORE

Strength to Lead

To be open to personal growth and learning, our girls must take positive risks, explore the world with curiosity and lead with personal strength.

St Catherine’s School offers a variety of co-curricular programs and experiences supporting students to reach their full potential. Through experiential learning students build on their academic knowledge and critical thinking skills to become:

• Resilient, persistent, and responsible

• Global citizens with cultural empathy

• Confident and aspirational leaders

To achieve this our Her Signature co-curricular program provides students opportunities to guide their experiences through a wide selection of valuable learning outside the classroom. Through this our girls take on more personal responsibility for their choices and skill acquisition and create opportunities for self-reflection, intrinsic goal setting and self-knowing. Through these experiences our students find their identities, passions, and confidence.

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“Ownership of their own experiential learning process empowers learners to do far more than an external person –whether a parent, a teacher, or a friend –can accomplish. More than just a way to learn, experiential learning is a way of being and living that permeates all aspects of a person’s life,” Trinh, Mai. (2019)

Year 12 students, Ciara Jenkins, Arabella Llewelyn, and Sarah Marriott share their insights into finding themselves through co-curricular experiences below.

How has the Her Signature program shaped your growth, learning and sense of identity?

“I think from Year 7, when my sense of identity was malleable, to now, my immersion in the co-curricular program has solidified who I am, what I like and the kind of person I want to be. I think it has reinforced to me repeatedly how important it is to push myself beyond my comfort zone, try new things and give my best at whatever I am doing.”

“Having the broad variety of co-curricular clubs available assisted in my growth. I was able to think about what I was truly passionate about. When joining the Environment Club, I learnt about the ways individuals and organisations can make a difference to the environmental challenges facing society. This recognition

of my passion has been monumental, as it has opened my eyes to what career path I want to pursue and provided me with a multitude of skills, including public speaking, teamwork, work ethic and extensive environmental knowledge.”

“It is no secret that Rowing is timeconsuming and demands discipline! Although we come together in one boat with one purpose – to make it go fast, this does not mean we are all the same. This season has shaped my growth and learning of acceptance, faith, and respect in conjunction with time management and thinking of others and their needs. Fortunately, I have been able to use the discipline I learnt through my rowing experiences into my academics which assisted me with my workload.”

When students in Year 12 reflect on their experiences at St Catherine’s, their insight into their own learning is invaluable. The depth of reflection in the girls’ responses and their clear sense of purpose for their futures is clear. Thank you, Ciara, Arabella, and Sarah, for your insights.

Reference: Trinh, Mai. (2019). Learning Identity, Flexibility, and Lifelong Experiential Learning.

11STUDENT PROGRAMS

TOUGH THEMESBeautifullyHandled

I do not always immediately ‘get’ artworks. Contemporary art experiences can be resistant to being unpacked from an aesthetic point of view.

When considering Contemporary Art, we no longer ask ‘Is the artwork good?’ or ‘Is the work aesthetically pleasing?’ Instead, viewers consider whether art is ‘challenging’ or ‘interesting.’

This year, the major galleries are affirming the significant role of women in arts,

as well as creating major exhibitions of contemporary female indigenous artists.

The recent Maree Clarke (Yorta Yorta/ Wamba Wamba/Mutti Mutti/Boonwurrung)

retrospective exhibition Ancestral Memories communicated delicately and gently, significant themes of affirmation and reconnection with her cultural heritage.

The Exhibition Found and Gathered, brought together Rosalie Gascoigne and Waradgerie artist, Lorraine ConnellyNorthey, whose found object artworks reference traditional weaving techniques and Indigenous cultural objects.

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Through exhibitions such as these we are reminded of our differing connections with nature and uncomfortably, the disposition of Indigenous people from the land.

Tough themes, beautifully handled.

At St Catherine’s School we develop bold learners who embrace discomfort and challenge. Our Art students have demonstrated this repeatedly.

2021 VCE Visual Arts students chose themes such as body image, learning disabilities, mental health, racism, homelessness, isolation, and loss.

Tough themes, beautifully handled.

Like the National Gallery of Victoria, the Arts Faculty at St Catherine’s School is committed to extending our teaching through discussions about the history, arts, reconciliation, and culture of First Nations Australians.

Our Studio Arts class explored the Found and Gathered Exhibition as a starting point for exploring and researching Connelly-Northey’s perspective and ideas.

Year 10 Visual Communication Design created Indigenous AFL guernseys to explore connection, racism, and identity. In Year 7 Drama students researched Indigenous perspectives, voices, and events to create dramatic responses to Indigenous-Australian politics and society.

Year 8 Music explored the song My Island Home by Christine Anu and the Warumpi Band to explore Torres Strait displacement from lands and conceptualise ‘home’ through the lens of the natural world.

Our Year 8 students also had the privilege of learning from contemporary Indigenous weaver Kathy Glass, proud Gurindi, Dagoman and Wardaman Woman, from Katherine, NT and proud mother of our Boarding Captain, Jasmine.

As our Artist Educator, Kathy spent time working with students and staff. Media teacher, Ms Julia West commented,

“Through Kathy, I have learnt that yarning (talking), is the way knowledge is passed on. It is how one learns what you have wished to know. We are not used to this in western culture, but it is something I will now use within my own teaching.”

Jasmine’s Year 12 artistic practice is based on contemporary weaving learnt from her mum, Kathy, as well as Jasmine’s experiences with the traditional weavers in her country. Jasmine reflected, “I am a Dagoman, Wadraman and Gurindji woman raised in Katherine, NT. I have been exploring the idea of weaving and how it connects women from many generations.” Jasmine’s work was exhibited in the VCE Art Show, held in October this year.

In 2022 and beyond, St Catherine’s will continue to develop curriculum that honours reconciliation. We will embrace the sharing approach to knowledge transfer through asking questions, turning up, participating, and inviting, with a genuine and unhurried purpose to be in the room, listening, participating, and learning.

13VISUAL ARTS
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"Whatkindof musicalisthis?" LITTLESALLY

Congratulations to the cast, crew, and production team of the sublime Senior School production, Urinetown: The Musical.

It was an energy filled and thought-provoking piece of theatre that showcased skilled actors in challenging and entertaining roles. Urinetown will be remembered as the first theatrical production to be staged in The Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre.

The title certainly raised a few eyebrows, but the performances enlightened audiences about the meta-theatrical, tongue-in-cheek content that satirised corporate greed, environmental issues, and the idea of revolution in an idealistic youth. Impressively, each performance was student run –

from the tech desk to makeup artistry, the backstage crew, and the ushers. This is a feat of which we are extremely proud.

The production may have been set in a town “just like any other town you might find in a musical,” but the environmental, economic, and social messages were very relevant for us in Australia. The size and scope of recent floods, droughts, bushfires, and coral bleaching have all had a lasting impact on communities around the country, including our own.

Our diligent cast had a twelve-week rehearsal schedule and honed their craft by working on character development, scene blocking, learning songs and choreography.

The cast and crew gathered momentum

and confidence in their performances during ‘Tech Week,’ and the show exploded onto the stage on opening night. Needless to say, they did not take a backward step, creating an air of electricity and excitement in the new Theatre across all four shows.

I have the privilege of working with a wonderfully talented and creative group of people who have not only worked tirelessly to achieve our creative vision but demonstrated the professionalism and passion to create high quality theatre.

Congratulations to all involved and thank you to everyone who came to support us.

15PERFORMING ARTS

ON TOP OF THE WORLD

St Catherine’s School’s First VIII Rowing Crew are now the best Schoolgirl 8+ in the world after taking out the Prince Philip Challenge Trophy at the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta in the UK.

The 2022 St Catherine’s School Rowing season will go down in history as the School’s most successful season ever, with St Catherine’s First VIII Crew (MMXXI) now reigning international champions, Australian Champions, and back-to-back Head of Schoolgirls Champions.

The Henley Royal Regatta is one of the most prestigious and historic rowing events on

the world rowing calendar. After delivering impressive races throughout their Heats and Semi Finals, the MMXXI Crew competed against the ‘best of the best’ from the USA –the Winter Park Crew, Florida in the Final.

The St Catherine’s Crew now join a distinguished history of Australian rowing crews who have successfully competed on the world stage and won at the Henley Royal Rowing Regatta since 1912.

The Crew raced with great determination and courage from the very first race. The first day of racing saw the MMXXI take on St Paul’s Girls’ School, scoring a dominant victory by four lengths, the next round of racing was against Hinksey Sculling School, an Oxford based Rowing Club, where

the MMXXI led from start to finish with a three-quarter length margin at the finish line. The Semi-Final was set to be one of the toughest races of the Regatta, however, the MMXXI rose to the challenge. The first 1000m was bow ball to bow ball before the St Catherine’s Crew made their move and stormed home by two lengths to win over the UK School Crew, Surbiton High School.

To make a Final at the Henley Royal Regatta is an incredible achievement in itself, however the MMXXI was determined to ensure that their last race together would be the best. The Crew took the lead early blasting out of the start, although it remained close through the middle of the race, the MMXXI had control finishing with an epic win to cross the line two-thirds of a length in front of the USA Winter Park Crew.

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St Catherine’s MMXXI delighted their coaches, Brigette Carlile and John Saunders, support crew and immensely proud parents and past students who had travelled to Henley, as well as their many friends, teachers and St Catherine’s students across the Year levels supporting online from Melbourne.

The key to their success was best concluded after the race by Stroke Seat and Captain of Boats, Bronte Cullen, “We just tried to relax as much as possible, stay focused and trust the process. We have the most amazing group of girls and just act as one.”

Much of the Crew’s pre-season training was conducted via online sessions in their own homes throughout Melbourne’s COVID lockdowns. The results throughout their 2021/22 season are testament to the girls’ tenacious approach to training, all whilst balancing their VCE study commitments, and their extraordinary determination and grit.

As a School we congratulate these amazing female athletes and look forward to following their successes in the future.

The St Catherine’s Rowing Program may be small, but it certainly is mighty, including a stellar crew now recognised as the best Schoolgirl 8+ in the world.

The MMXXI is made up of four Year 12 students and five Year 11 students. The Crew worked hard to achieve what they have this season and their victory at the Henley Royal Regatta was well deserved.

The St Catherine’s First VIII 2022:

Cox: Summer Balla-Kellett

Stroke: Bronte Cullen

Seven: Sienna Darcy

Six: Sarah Marriott

Five: Chloe Nevins

Four: Zara Bongiorno

Three: Lucy Green

Two: Jemima Wilcox

Bow: Zara Peele

Coaches: John Saunders & Brigette Carlile

17ROWING

With four girls, Lisa (’79), Pia (’81), Nicola (’83), and Anna (’92), attending the School over 21 continuous years, youngest of the ‘Foley Four,’ Anna is now a St Catherine’s parent, with her daughter, Violetta, a Year 8 student at St Catherine’s. Anna and Violetta share their memories below.

“I was in my Mum’s belly as she took my older sisters to St Catherine’s. Then when I was old enough, I would go to their sports practices, and all the events. I spent so much time at St Catherine’s, amongst all the clothes at Swap Shop, putting all the baseball gloves away, getting out the hockey sticks for Miss Pizzey, or on dog minding duties with her gorgeous golden retriever, Rory. There was always someone who I could help, I just remember wanting to be a part of it all,” shares Anna.

The opportunity to take on her first ‘official’ role at St Catherine’s came when Anna was just three years old, given the title of first live mascot for the School,

“Miss Susan Pizzey had a Junior Sports uniform made especially for me, along with custom made runners. I got to walk out with the Athletics Captain and the whole team behind us. I remember the roar of the crowd, everything felt enormous. All my sisters were in that team, and I felt so proud to be wearing the uniform, my very own.”

Anna used this enthusiasm for being part of a team, listening to the coaches, and being part of something greater than herself, in her school life in Barbreck.

“I felt compelled to help my classmates in trying new sports, getting the kids who could not play to have a go. Everyone was welcome, I was adamant.”

Return to HOME

1978 School Athletics Team, Old Olympic Park
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Anna reflects on her time with Miss Pizzey, commenting that it provided her with a perspective on what true sportsmanship was. “To be truly included and seen for all having qualities that just needed gentle encouragement to flourish. Miss Pizzey had a spirit in her.”

During her time as a student at St Catherine’s, Anna says she was acutely aware of the privilege she had being a part of this great school, “When it was time for me to wear the Blue Blazer in my final year, I wore it with such pride. Every thread of that Blazer was woven with the 21 years of our family history at the School. The St Cath’s community had nurtured me from the beginning.”

Thirty years have now passed since her final year at St Catherine’s. Now, Anna watches her daughter Violetta create her own path within St Catherine’s.

“Seeing Violetta part of St Catherine’s School and having her first taste of competitive school sport has opened up such pivotal life memories for me –ones that have really served me in life and beyond the gates of Sherren House,” shares Anna.

“Violetta competed in the Softball Team this year. Watching them win the Final was electric. It was wonderful seeing Violetta fly in her natural abilities, cheer on her friends, discover what true sports talent really is. It provides me immense joy knowing Violetta is now part of the Foley/St Catherine’s lineage. St Catherine’s is the right place for her, I could not be more thrilled to be supporting the School in whatever way I can.”

For Violetta, attending St Catherine’s has felt like a return to home, “I feel proud knowing that my Grandfather, Mr Stuart Foley worked hard alongside a team of parents to create the buildings that we still use today, that my Grandmother Mrs Barbara Foley established the Sports Auxiliary with other parents to fund the exciting sports we now participate in. Knowing that my mum, aunties, and cousins have attended St Catherine’s is like they are all supporting me to find my way back home.”

Along with her family history, Violetta has enjoyed her time at St Catherine’s, describing it as “a big family for me.

The teachers and coaches are all supportive. I feel encouraged and inspired daily to have a go, to learn new things, to make new friends, and to make mistakes. At the end of the day by being part of this family I have the space to discover who I am and what lights me up.”

Encouraged by her mum’s enthusiasm for “having a go at everything,” Violetta signed up for Softball, Choir and Swimming on her first day, “I met so many new people and discovered a new sport that I never knew before. I learnt that I love to swing the bat and hit the softball far and wide. It was such a thrill to play in a team and have fun each week, and to also win the GSV.”

Although Anna is no longer the three-year-old mascot for St Catherine’s, Violetta explains not much has changed “I can hear Mum roar ‘Go St Cath’s’ on the sidelines of my sport matches. The girls have now called her ‘our lucky charm’ and ‘secret weapon,’ as we have had a winning streak in those sports when she is there.

Athletics Captains Ms Debra Fisher (‘78) and Mrs Xenia Williamson (Boynton ‘78) with Anna The Foley Four: Pia (left), Anna (centre front), Lisa (right), Nicola (centre back)
19MOTHER & DAUGHTER

GAME Change the

In 2022, St Catherine’s established the St Catherine’s Athlete Development Academy, a platform for aspiring female athletes to further develop their sporting abilities through individualised sport-specific training programs and a suite of athlete education services including sports psychology, nutrition, recovery and injury prevention, time management and goal setting.

Currently in an initial pilot-program stage, the Development Academy is headed up by Ms Kim Mulhall, a Level 3 Athletics Australia Accredited Coach, and a current Victorian thrower who has represented Australia at two world juniors, two Commonwealth Games and a World University Games.

Kim shares her insights on the Development Academy below:

“The aim of the Athlete Development Academy (ADA) is to assist and develop girls who are already showing talent and promise in their chosen sports to get them to the next level and beyond,” explains Kim.

“It is important that young girls feel empowered and confident in their chosen sports. It is also important they understand the benefits of strength training for their everyday wellbeing as well as improving their sporting outcomes. Through the ADA we can educate our female athletes to build their confidence and assist them in reaching their sporting goals.

“Along with this, the Academy also provides our female athletes with guidance and support in goal setting, nutrition, sports psychology, mindset, and load management.

“Within the pilot program for 2022 we have 13 female athletes participating. We hope to

expand this in the years to come, particularly with the refurbishment of the Dorothy Pizzey Centre to include a high-performance training environment to elevate our athletes to maximise their performance and motivate them to continually strive for excellence.

“The ADA is an innovative approach to not only building the physical capabilities of our athletes at St Catherine’s but also empowering our young women to better understand the importance of strength and conditioning as part of their training regime and lifelong health. It is great that St Catherine’s is leading the way on this,” shares Kim.

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Athlete Profiles

Catherine Ross

Year 9

Swimming, Rowing, Cross Country Running & Skiing, Alpine Skiing

Swimming – State Champions Record Holder 4x50m Freestyle Relay (’19); Snowsports – first place Victorian Interschool Cross Country Individual (Mt Buller ‘19), Third Place Victorian Interschools Skier Cross Individual (Mt Buller ’22); Rowing – first place Year 9 Division 1 Firbank Regatta (’22)

“Whilst I have not been training with the Academy for long, it has already expanded my knowledge and skill within my sports, helping me get the best result out of my body. It has also been interesting to look at my sports through a strength and conditioning perspective and learn more about athlete nutrition.

During the ADA sessions we focus on strength and conditioning training, goal setting within our sports, and nutrition. For me, sport is a place where I gain new friendships, expand my knowledge, and gain a sense of enjoyment out of pushing myself physically and mentally to achieve my sporting goals. Competing for St Catherine’s I enjoy how each sport forms a small community within the School as a whole.”

Lily Taylor

Year 11

Hockey, Athletics, Soccer, Softball, Swimming

Rowing – Head of Schoolgirls Regatta Intermediate Champions (’21); Softball – GSV Runners Up (’21); Hockey – GSV Premiers 2021 & 2022

“St Catherine’s has always supported me in achieving my best in sports. This support has been through specialised coaches, personalised feedback and encouragement shown by my coaches, teachers, and other students as well.

“Improving my strength and conditioning within the ADA means I can challenge myself in a more personal and familiar setting, rather than in a large fitness centre. It has also provided me with a better understanding of sports nutrition and what foods benefit my body

“With Ms Mulhall as our personal strength coach, we are being taught the correct technique which means my body is gaining strength for my chosen sports and I am limiting the chance of injury from incorrect technique. I feel more confident in strength training because of the ADA sessions.”

Eloise Burdett-Moore

Year 11

AFLW, Downhill Skiing

Snowsports – first overall, Mt Buller Race Club King of the Mountain Series, Mt Buller Race Club Athlete Leader; AFLW – Youngest player to be selected to represent Old Geelong in the Senior Women’s team.

“The Athlete Development Academy allows me to improve my skills, strength and conditioning and increase my athlete knowledge through sessions integrated into our school days and in a location that was easy to access as we are already here! The Academy is an amazing way for me to learn how to balance school and sport throughout the rest of Year 11 and Year 12.

“We have learnt about nutrition and how we need to keep on top of fueling our bodies for training and games whilst working around the limitations of being at School from 8.00am to 4.00pm.

“Through the Academy my hope is to gain further organisational skills, including balancing school/athlete life as I head into Year 12 in 2023, as well as improving within my sports through the structured sessions.”

SPORT 21

A JOURNEY TO FINE FORM

St Catherine’s Music community returned to the Melbourne Recital Centre for the first time since 2019 for our 2022 Gala Concert.

The Concert was a significant occasion, with a forward focus on gratefulness and celebration, under the theme Journeys.

With the support of our diligent and talented Music staff, 230 St Catherine’s students, from Years 3 to 12, rose to the occasion grasping the opportunity to perform in the warm and generous acoustic of Elisabeth Murdoch Hall.

Indeed, the theme for the evening was apt, with the focus on journeys allowing students to relate this directly to their performances. The connections with St  Catherine’s Values of Empathy, Perseverance, Gratitude,

Curiosity and Integrity were on display as the audience were led through a musical journey by our Senior School and Junior School Music Captains – Catherine Chen (Instrumental), Charlotte Myer (Choral), Liana Lam and Annika Gill.

In this way, the learning, and the journey, is the most important part of our students’ development.

Journeys

22 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

Opportunities such as the Gala Concert provide the students with the perfect pathway to share experiences that will define how they are to become bold and inspirational young people. This includes the strength required to take positive risks, the resilience needed to deal with mistakes no matter how big, and the courage to get up and do it all over again. These dispositions are our focus at St Catherine’s.

There are so many staff and students to be thanked for the integral roles they played in making the Gala Concert a success. In particular, the St Catherine’s School Leadership Team for their support, Mr Saska Ayris, Head of Music Operations and Mr James Brown, Head of Performing Arts.

Whilst the staff play a huge role in guiding our students, ultimately it is our students that are responsible for the evening. It was a pleasure and a privilege working alongside them.

Mr Nick Grunden Head of Music

23

Champions SNOWSPORTS

St Catherine’s School has had an incredible return to the mountains after two years off the snow.

Over the season our Snowsports Team achieved:

Victorian Interschools Championships Champions – Primary Girls School Champions – Secondary Girls School Champions

Primary Girls Cross Country Third Place – Secondary Girls Cross Country

Australian Interschools Championships Champions

Primary Female Champions

Primary Female Cross Country Runners Up – Secondary Female Runners Up

Secondary Female Cross Country

24 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

Commencing the 2022 season was House Snowsports which was an exciting weekend full of actionpacked Moguls, Alpine and Cross Country. Congratulations to Langley Templeton for winning the 2022 St Catherine’s House Snowsports.

The Snowsports Team then competed in the Victorian Cross Country Interschools at Mt Buller. There were some incredible performances across each division and event which saw St Catherine’s Junior School win the Overall Championship with a whopping 46 points and our Senior School finished a close third place.

The 48-strong Team then competed at the Victorian Interschools Snowsports Championships across Alpine, Moguls, Ski Cross, Snowboard GS, Snowboard Cross, and Ski Slopestyle disciplines. All students participated and performed with resilience and integrity across the week, at times competing in some challenging wet and windy conditions.

During the Snowsports Interschools, St Catherine’s had an incredible 15 podiums for team performances and 11 individual podiums.

Congratulations to each member of the Team. Every member contributed to the success of both our Junior and Senior Schools, becoming State Champions in Victoria!

Our Senior School has held onto the overall Secondary School Championship since 2014. This is an extremely impressive return to the slopes, after two years away due to COVID.

Following our extremely impressive Victorian Interschools campaign, our Team of 24 students across all disciplines and ages made their way to Perisher, NSW for the Australian Interschools Championships. With what might be one of our smallest Snowsports teams in a while, all girls competing did not disappoint. Congratulations to our Junior School who are now officially the Australian Primary Female Overall Champions and to our Senior School, who despite not having any Year 11s or 12s competing, were able to finish runners up for the overall Championship, behind Sydney school, Wenona.

Thank you to all members of the St Catherine’s Snowsports community, those long drives, early mornings, and cold races were all worth it! We are so proud of our fantastic community and are looking forward to Snowsports Season 2023.

2022 SEASON INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENTS

Victorian Interschools Cross Country Championships

Division 5 XC Classic: 1st Place Avalon Pascoe

Division 4 XC Classic: 1st Place Camilla Aberdeen

Division 4 XC Classic: 3rd Place Isabella Wilkins

Division 3 XC Classic: 2nd Place Amity Morris

Division 1 XC Classic: 1st Place Sarah Marriott

Victorian Interschools Snowsports Championships

Division 1 Alpine: 1st Place Mietta Passon

Division 5 Alpine: 3rd Place Avalon Pascoe

Division 1 Moguls: 1st Place Mietta Passon

Division 1 Moguls: 3rd Place Catherine Chen

Division 3 Moguls: 2nd Place Kayleigh Yap

Division 1 Ski Cross: 2nd Place Mietta Passon

Division 2 Ski Cross: 3rd Place Catherine Ross

Division 1 Snowboard GS: 3rd Place Mietta Passon

Division 5 Snowboard GS: 2nd Place Avalon Pascoe

Division 1 Snowboard Cross: 3rd Place Mietta Passon

Division 1 Ski Slopestyle: 3rd Place Zoe Hall

Australian Interschools Snowsports Championships

Division 5 XC Classic: 8th Place Avalon Pascoe

Division 4 XC Classic: 3rd Place Camilla Aberdeen

Division 4 XC Classic: 7th Place Isabella Wilkins

Division 4 XC Classic: 10th Place Annika Gill

Division 3 XC Classic: 6th Place Amity Morris

Division 5 Alpine: 9th Place Avalon Pascoe

Division 3 Moguls: 7th Place Kayleigh Yap

Division 5 Snowboard GS: 10th Place Avalon Pascoe

25SNOWSPORTS

Greatest Rewards FROM GREATEST COMMITMENT

Congratulations to St Catherine’s Senior GSV (Girls Sport Victoria) Hockey Team who capped off an outstanding undefeated season by claiming the GSV Premiership in a terrific display of team first hockey, defeating MLC 11-0. While the team has some incredibly talented individual players, with four players representing Victoria this year, what was evident throughout the season was a selfless approach where everyone contributed to the success of the team.

Mr Rob Marshall, St Catherine’s Deputy Principal, has coached the girls each of these years, “This Hockey Team has won the grand final each season since they were in Year 7. The girls play with commitment, passion, skill, and they have fun. Each of these girls represents the best of what we aspire St Catherine’s girls to be,” shares Mr Marshall.

For Year 11 student, Samantha Love, the GSV Championship was the start of great things to come. In July, Samantha represented Victoria in the U21 Australian Hockey Championships in Perth. Not only did Victoria take out the gold medal, but Samantha scored the opening field goal in the gold medal match.

“I did not expect to have as much success as I have had. Given the last couple of years with COVID having such a large impact on Victoria and missing so much national level hockey, I think winning the

gold at the U21s was unexpected. Scoring the opening goal was unreal. No words can describe the feeling of hearing the crowd go wild and having all my teammates celebrate around me,” shares Samantha.

For Year 12 GSV team members, Scarlett Davis (Captain), Sarah Pratt and Adelaide Mitchell their contributions to GSV Hockey during their time at St Catherine’s has been outstanding. All three of the girls have played every year since Year 7.

Scarlett Davis: “Winning the Grand Final was a lovely bookend to my schooling, like a final bow to tie off my Hockey ‘career.’ I also found a sweet comparison in my mum being Captain of the winning Hockey Team at St Catherine’s in her final year, even though she was a much better player than me!”

Sarah Pratt: “To win the Final together was a very emotional experience and so rewarding. We are the only three Year 12s that have participated in every year of Hockey together since Year 7. I have loved the bonds I made and the traditions we held.

Adelaide Mitchell: “Being able to play Hockey since Year 7 has shown me the dedication of students in either wanting to improve on a chosen area of their sport or even just showing up to training, I learnt so much about commitment to a team and those around you.”

Congratulations girls, we are enormously proud of all your achievements.

26 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

Sofya, a poem written by Mrs Kate Denmead

Featured in the 2022 St Catherine’s School Gala Concert Program

Sofya Vainer

A beautiful soul Talented pianist And generous heart.

Sofya had her way Of making you smile Her own special way Of improving your day.

Her big warming hugs Are something I’ll miss Greetings each time You’d meet in the hall.

A TRIBUTE

Sofya Vainer

“Good morning, I am feeling wonderful today.” St Catherine’s Music stalwart, Sofya Vainer would dance into the Music Room in the mornings ready to start her day, bringing a vitality and effervescence that delighted our entire School community.

As former Head of St Catherine’s Music Department, Mr Tim Collins articulated during the 2018 celebration of Sofya’s forty-year anniversary at St Catherine’s, “Sofya’s delightful nature belies a stern and difficult start.“

Born in Sverdlovsk in the Ural Mountains in 1941, Sofya’s mother was forced to leave baby Sofya alone at home with a bottle whilst she knitted socks for soldiers in a factory. Sofya’s father, an exceptional violinist, was already in the army and upon leaving commented that “if my child is a boy then he shall be a violinist, if my baby is a girl, she will be a pianist.” Sofya commenced playing the piano at the age of five. By the time she was 12 she was playing Bach and Grieg concertos and had been attending a special school for talented young musicians for five years. Several

years later, Sofya met Alex Vainer, after he attended one of her concerts with the Riga Symphony. Alex was enamoured with Sofya and seven years later they were married.

Sofya studied music at Riga Conservatorium and psychology which she always used in her lessons. Alex and Sofya emigrated to Australia in 1977. Both Sofya and Alex were passionate supporters of St Catherine’s Music Program, attending countless concerts and productions across Sofya’s 44 years at St Catherine’s.

For over 40 years, Sofya shared her love of music, specifically the piano, with St Catherine’s students and families. She was a shining light in our School community and constantly encouraged her students and those around her to strive for their best. Most importantly, Sofya expected the same exacting standards from herself over a lifetime of amazing music-making and teaching.

Sofya was a vibrant and energetic personality who was committed to excellence through music. Her passing is mourned by our whole School community. As a School we extend our heartfelt condolences to her husband Alex and her children and grandchildren.

Sofya’s passion and music will endure through the countless young girls she has infused with a lifetime love of music.

Vale Sofya.

Laughter, she’d say The best medicine. That full bellied laugh Could brighten our day.

You are looking great She’d often remark. Is that a new dress? Or, have you lost weight?

Her favourite style; Romantic playing, Was heard from her room When’er she was in.

Over forty years

Of service she gave Both students and staff Were touched by her heart. St Catherine’s House Will ne’er be the same Without her presence, She’ll be sorely missed.

27

HANDS ON LEARNING

Whilst academic learning, subject scores, grades, and ATAR are important, so too is playing in a sports team with teammates, singing in a choir with your friends or learning how to pitch a tent on the shore of a beautiful lagoon in a World Heritage area.

Our co-curricular offerings at St Catherine’s, and the range of experiential programs available ensure we provide the essential balance of learning experiences so vital to becoming a well-rounded person.

In 2022, our Year 9 students travelled in groups to Far North Queensland and north-western Western Australia as part of St Catherine’s Her Signature Adventure Camps.

Our group travelling to Western Australia were able to discover first-hand the secrets of the beautiful land of Monkey Mia, and to understand the deep spiritual connection to land the Nhanda and Malgana people have. This was an enriching experience of First Australians’ cultures, history, and traditions, discovered in an outdoor classroom.

28 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

Our Queensland group travelled to Cairns and onto the Atherton Tablelands. They joined the Mandingalbay Yidinji people where they learnt about their culture and their connection to Country. Following this the girls travelled to the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage area, where they learnt about the conservation programs in place in the Daintree Rainforest and travelled to the Daintree and Cape Tribulation National Park.

The Adventure Camps exposed our Year 9 students to some genuinely remote and different environments to anything experienced in Victoria. The girls also gained valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the First Australians and their custodianship of this land.

Undoubtedly, our Year 9 Cohort have endured a disrupted start to their senior

schooling with pressing COVID lockdowns across both their Years 7 and 8 journeys. However, despite this disruption, the Cohort embraced every opportunity during the Adventure Camps, finding joy, fun and laughter by simply being together.

29ADVENTURE CAMPS

House RULES

“The boarding house structure provides me an independent life. I manage my studies within the allocated study time and do all my own washing,” shares Year 9 Boarding student, Harper Anderson.

Originally from North-East Victoria, for Harper, life in Illawarra, St Catherine’s heritage listed Boarding House, has improved her independence and organisation skills significantly. “Boarding gives me flexibility in my social life, such as meeting up with day-student friends or going places after school. These aspects provide me crucial skills for life after school.”

“My personal management skills have also risen since moving to the Boarding House. I keep track of my personal belongings, manage my own time and money.”

Head of Boarding Services, Mrs Sue Collister explains the daily program in Illawarra plays a key role in settling new boarders into life at St Catherine’s, and provides the routine and familiarity essential for academic success and wellbeing.

“Within our daily program study times are allocated and appropriate bedtimes

ensuring our boarders are in a great position to make the most of their education. Overseeing the daily program are our boarding staff who possess a collective wisdom across a diverse range of qualifications,” shares Collister.

Within St Catherine’s, Boarding House staff are chosen for their caring approach and warm personalities. They possess a collective wisdom across a diverse range of qualifications, including Education, the Sciences, Arts, Law, Nursing, Social work and Medical Services, ensuring a breadth of academic support is available to assist students.

“Our Boarding staff are involved in the daily pastoral care of the boarders and play a key role in supporting their academic progress. During the school week, members of the Boarding staff oversee homework and study time.”

The family atmosphere within Illawarra is fostered through the daily program of the Boarding House. During mealtimes, boarders enjoy time eating together and during allocated daily study time, boarders are encouraged to seek support from their peers, and senior boarders also mentor younger boarders, helping with both academic studies and social needs.

“It is common to see a group of students comprised of Year 7s to Year 12s on the couches in the lobby of an afternoon. When the girls return to Illawarra after school, Year levels are forgotten and everyone is part of the boarding family,” explains Collister.

BOARDING 30 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

CELEBRATING A SENSE OF PLACE

This year, St Catherine’s School celebrates 100 years at Heyington Place. The relocation from Castlemaine to Williams Road to Heyington Place demonstrates the commitment and foresight of both Ruth Langley and Flora Templeton in guiding and ensuring the enduring success of St Catherine’s School.

The School moved from Castlemaine in 1920 relocating to ‘Maulstrasse’ at 247 Williams Road, Toorak to accommodate the rapid increase in student numbers with 83 girls enrolled, including 17 boarders.

The Herald reported on Saturday 11 December ,1920: “Bishop Langley said he welcomed the establishment of the school in the city, where its first year [located at Williams Road] had met approval. The Report of the Principals referred to the successes of the school, in education and sport and to the fact that... it had become necessary to consider seriously the advisability of obtaining larger housing accommodation to meet increasing applications for entry into the boarding section of the school.”

In 1921 at the annual Speech Night, Miss Langley was reported in The Age newspaper: “that the school had gradually increased in numbers till it had exceeded the limit of 120 set by the Principals and was now 130. Alternative suggestions have been considered for extension of the present premises [at Williams Road] to provide adequate accommodation for the boarders, or the acquirement of new premises. A site was under offer at Toorak.”

After the turn of the century and following World War One, the subdivision of the grand old estates in Toorak began to increase when rising labour costs made the cost of servants and other people to maintain the estates prohibitive. These subdivisions opened the possibility of larger premises for the School.

The Herald reported on 17 May 1922 the sale of the mansion known as Kilbride with one acre of land. The remaining four and a half acres were subdivided and the School gradually purchased these properties with Wiltondale the final acquisition in 1999. The School was then officially opened and consecrated at Heyington Place on 25 September 1922, by the Right Rev. Doctor Langley, assisted by the Rev. Archie Law, Vicar of St John’s Church, Toorak, and Mr Colin Langley.

An advertisement in the Australasian newspaper on 11 November 1922 states:

“While offering a sound education it is the special aim of the principals to train the girls for the responsibilities of life and to give them high ideals. To aid them in their work very beautiful and healthful surroundings have been provided.”

The School’s 1923 Annual Report describes the move as “the year of settling in and accommodating ourselves to our new surroundings. The new conditions of big garden space, and the freedom of open-air life at first seemed disturbing –the pupils did not at first appreciate their privileges.” However, this soon changed with students given access to the gardens and a competition held to encourage the girls’ sense of place. The 1924 form report cites “We have our own gardens to look after. Everyone is trying very hard this year [to win the prize.]”

In celebration of the 100 years anniversary at Heyington Place a heritage trail will be developed over time. Plaques will be placed at significant locations with a QR code for additional information and archival images.

ARCHIVES 1923 Whole School
Miss Ruth Langley and Miss Flora Templeton c1924
31

Class of 2021 Past Parents’ Reunion

The Class of 2021 Past Parents’ social evening was held on Thursday 5 May and kindly hosted by Mr Scott and Mrs Fiona Reinke, parents of Louisa (’21) and Sabrina (’17).

It was a warm, friendly, and spirited evening where parents shared plenty of stories of their girls’ incredible achievements and the beautiful summer break they all greatly deserved and enjoyed after two VCE years in lockdown.

Guests enjoyed the generosity of delicious food and wine bought by everyone attending and agreed they will all endeavour to stay connected in the years ahead. There were many families that would have liked to attend but were unfortunately not able to be there on the night. Scott Reinke made a small welcome speech which was very well received and appreciated.

Mr Scott Reinke

Chair, Past Parents

FOLLOW YOUR PASSION

On the evening of Thursday 26 May, in the Long Room at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, St Catherine’s fathers and daughters enjoyed the privilege of listening to the humble success of Dr Richard ‘Harry’ Harris SC OAM, who played a crucial role in the Tham Luang cave rescue in 2018 as a cave diver and anaesthetist.

During the evening Dr Harris outlined his journey towards being a pivotal member of the global recovery effort that saved the lives of 12 Thai junior soccer players and their coach from a Thai cave after monsoonal flooding. Dr Harris intoxicated the audience as he detailed being drawn to photography, deep sea diving and anaesthetics as his medical specialty, which combined have made him a household name.

“Following your passion” was certainly Dr Harris’ message as he generously shared heartfelt information to the audience. His impact was felt so much that in a nod to how emotional and warm the evening was, the Walkinshaw Hot Lap auction item from the night’s auction, was generously donated to Dr Harris, who had earlier disclosed his love of car racing, by auction winner, Mr Phil Dreaver, father of Sophie in Year 10 and Carys in Year 5. Thank you, Phil.

A special thank you to current and past parent, Mr Andrew Demetriou, father of Mattea in Year 10 and Alexandra and Francesca (’21) who emceed the evening and provided a sense of sporting romance to the event, transporting the audience through the journey of the MCG and marking the spot as a teenager where he was startlingly tackled by the great Leigh Mathews!

The Sports Auxiliary was fortunate to provide, and benefit from, auction and raffle items. A special thank you to Mrs Symone Demetriou, mother of Mattea in Year 10 and Alexandra and Francesca (‘21) and Mrs Fleur Heidenreich, mother of Fleur and Stella (’21) for their generous raffle ticket donations, along with Mr Dave Cohen, father of Milla in Year 7 and to Ms Georgie Handbury (Seccull ‘86), mother of Chloe Year 7, who facilitated our Walkinshaw Hot Lap auction with Bathurst winning driver Chaz Mostert. Collectively the Sports Auxiliary raised $4,650 from the raffle and auction with proceeds ensuring our girls’ Sports Program is supported and celebrated with equipment and resources.

Dr Lee Holmes President, Sports Auxiliary

32 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

Community Spirit in Action

Despite COVID again attempting to hinder the amazing community spirit that St Catherine’s is renowned for, the 22nd annual PFA Ruth Langley Luncheon was held at Zinc, Federation Square on Friday 17 June 2022.

There was a sense of overwhelming excitement as current and past parents, staff and Old Girls joined together to enjoy each other’s company over delightful food and beverages at this incredible venue. It was also the first time that a few fathers were able to attend in support of this iconic annual event.

Following on from last year’s exciting career highlights, Ms Mimi Kwa our very own St Catherine’s parent, journalist, presenter and author was kind enough to accept our request to emcee the Luncheon. The highlight of the Luncheon was the Q&A interview between past parent, Alumnae and St Catherine’s Foundation Board Member, Ms Fiona Menzies (’87) and our Guest Speaker, the Hon. Julie Bishop. The discussion was a fascinating and engaging conversation filled with Julie’s reallife experiences across continents as Australian Foreign Affairs Minister, her insights into the challenges of politics and her career defining moments liaising with some of the world’s most powerful leaders.

It was remarkable to hear from this truly incredible and ambitious woman, who represents St Catherine’s core philosophy to nurture confident, independent and globally responsive young women who will make a real difference in our society.

All attendees at the Luncheon were provided with a bag filled with various gift vouchers, all from our very generous, greatly appreciated and highly valuable sponsors. A total of 31 penny raffle prizes and six silent auction items were donated from members of our School community. We also thank the following businesses for their generous support:

Blinged

George & Co Luxico Husk BeetBox Carnival for Kids Habbot Shoes White Story Gaudion Milano Bliss

Divine Décor Smile Solutions Living Pure Arthur Galan Lusso

Lou Harvey Bank Of China Grace Willow Muck Off Gorman

96 Upstairs

The net profit from the Ruth Langley Luncheon will go towards our PFA commitment to provide $25,000 over three years to help fund the construction of The Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre, a home for performing arts in our School.

A special thank you to all the PFA Committee Members who worked tirelessly to make this event such a great success, not just with their time and amazing talent, but their passion and love for St Catherine’s School which is truly remarkable.

Mr Kevin D’Souza

2022 President, Parents’ and Friends’ Association

33OUR COMMUNITY

Celebrating the Opening of

JAMIE AND REBECCA GRAY THEATRE

The completion of a new building or learning space is always exciting, and our much-anticipated Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre has not disappointed.

The new Theatre provides an outstanding professional venue for our Performing Arts program, ensuring a specialised learning space that complements the professionalism and standard of performances of our students.

On Thursday 19 May, the performing arts space was officially opened by the Hon. Julie Bishop, who declared the bespoke theatre open and announced its new name in honour of our leading gift benefactors, Jamie and Rebecca Gray and in recognition of the Gray Family’s philanthropic leadership, and their family’s deep connection to our School.

As two of the School’s Patrons, Jamie and Rebecca are both passionate advocates

for educational excellence and artistic development. They are avid supporters of scholarship opportunities in girls’ education and long-standing supporters of the St Catherine’s Building Fund. They have seen the development of several major capital projects from inception.

During the official opening, 170 guests, including Foundation Members and BRAVA Wall donors enjoyed outstanding performances from our Music and Drama students and the cast of Urinetown, our first Senior School production in the new Theatre. Instrumental Music Captain, Catherine Chen also delighted all in attendance with her solo piano piece.

Ms Bishop provided our guests with wonderful insights into her time as Australian Foreign Minister and the value she places on education, commenting, “I am at St Catherine’s this evening for my very strong belief in the transforming power of education, particularly girls’ education. Empowering girls and women

through education, can bring immense benefits; economic and social to communities around the world.”

Ms Bishop also beautifully articulated the importance of giving, “my immense respect for those in our community who are donors, supporters, benefactors, and philanthropists and whose efforts ensure institutions, such as St Catherine’s, continue to deliver first-class, quality education to generation after generation of young girls over its 126-year history.”

On behalf of the students who gain so much from St Catherine’s philanthropic community, thank you to Jamie and Rebecca Gray, and the amazing cast of donors who so generously supported this important project. Your ongoing support for the School and the St Catherine’s School Foundation is much appreciated. BRAVA!

THE
34 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

SECURING HER FUTURE ST CATHERINE’S CIRCLE

St Catherine’s Circle honours and recognises, during their lifetime, those who have remembered St Catherine’s School in their Will. St Catherine’s owes an enormous debt of gratitude to the many women and men who have bequeathed funds and property to our School.

One of the greatest contributions you can make to empower future generations of St Catherine’s girls is the gift of education. A gift in your Will acknowledges the importance St Catherine’s School has played in your life.

Our aim for the St Catherine’s Circle is to create a culture of leaving gifts in Wills, whilst we continue to grow the fellowship of the Circle through a respectful and connected program.

A suite of events are being planned for 2023, including visits to the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. We look forward to sharing more information and dates in early 2023.

If you would like to join us for future St Catherine’s Circle events, or require more information regarding the bequest process, please contact Ms Kathy Hines for a confidential discussion. Email kahines@stcatherines.net.au or phone +61 3 9828 3032.

St Catherine’s Sports Centre

Following the successful completion of The Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre, the next stage of the redevelopment of the Dorothy Pizzey Centre is on the starting blocks. Our new Sports Centre will provide a contemporary indoor sports court, a dedicated High-Performance Training Studio for strength and conditioning, inclusive of a fit-for-purpose ergometer training area, and a Little Gym, housing our PMP (Perceptual Motor Program) and Tumbling programs for our younger students.

SHE IS STRONG also articulates our commitment to a St Catherine’s Athlete Development Academy, dedicated to extending both the sporting and academic capabilities of our female athletes to ensure every St Catherine’s student reaches her personal potential in sport. Through your support we will transform the Dorothy Pizzey Centre into a dedicated high-performance fitness studio and sporting centre that extends the athletic capabilities of our girls.

Over the next 12 months, our aim is to raise $1 million towards the total cost for the re-imagined Sports Centre. Every gift has an impact. However, lead gifts place the redevelopment on the starting blocks without supplementary income required from the School. I look forward to working with our generous community to help realise this exciting and important new learning space.

For more information on how you can become involved in this essential building project, please contact Ms Kathy Hines, Advancement Manager on 03 9828 3032 or email kahines@stcatherines.net.au

35FOUNDATION

A Word from the President

I am beyond thrilled to have shared a number of encounters with our Old Girls’ community over the past few months as we transition into our new normal.

We are currently playing catch up for those missed events of the past two years, so reunions are back in full force. You can hear the reminiscing from Heyington Place as everyone catches up on the latest news and has a giggle over the fashions featured in the photos on display.

We welcomed the Year Group Representatives for a thank you social event on the Sherren House balcony. These Old Girls are a pivotal part of our communication lines to each Year group. Thank you so much for all you do.

The Committee and I attended the fabulous opening of The Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre earlier this year. Seeing the transformation of the old gym into a state-of-the-art theatre was incredible, as were the theatrical and musical performances on opening night from our wonderfully talented current students.

Along with several Old Girls, I also attended the popular Ruth Langley Luncheon. This year we enjoyed an animated Q&A session with the Hon. Julie Bishop hosted by Fiona Menzies (’87) who is not only a highly experienced former political staffer, but an Old Girl, past parent, and current member of the Foundation Board.

It has been a busy start to the year, and we still have several future initiatives in the works. The Mentor Program will be back on our calendar, now that we can meet in person, and we already have some incredible mentors lined up. We are always on the lookout for any Old Girls interested in being involved so please reach out if you can support our community.

Heyington Hubs was launched virtually during COVID, with an opportunity for Old Girls to share their skills and experience on a range of different topics.

This year we will have a mix of online and in person opportunities, including wine tasting, yoga and much more. Watch this space for details of how to sign up.

Sport has always been a big part of our community and SCOGA has several opportunities for our Old Girls to engage in a range of sports including golf, water polo and netball. Sport is a wonderful way to keep fit and enjoy a social catch up with other Old Girls.

This is just a sneak peek of what is on offer so make sure you are following SCOGA on social media and have updated your details, so you do not miss future opportunities.

SCOGA
scoga@stcatherines.net.au 36 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

CAREERS BREAKFAST

In August, 22 of our Old Girls generously donated their time and professional experience to form the panel of experts at the St Catherine’s 2022 Careers Breakfast.

Our talented Old Girls, from a range of industries, shared details of their career paths and provided current Senior School students with insights

into what careers in their area of expertise involve on a daily basis.

The breakfast event was a unique opportunity for students to talk directly with our panel of talented Old Girls from industries including engineering, medicine, law, media and communications, agriculture, business, entrepreneurship, film and television, science, and health science.

The morning was a showcase of our remarkable Old Girls and a wonderful opportunity for current students to be inspired and informed on the diverse opportunities that lie ahead of them.

It was wonderful to hold the mentoring event back on campus after two years of COVID restrictions and support a networking event that brings our SCOGA members and St Catherine’s students together.

Our Newest Old Girls

Each year, SCOGA recognises St Catherine’s Prep girls as the newest members of our Old Girls’ Association, with the presentation of a teddy bag tag to proudly adorn their school bags.

The bag tags are a symbol of the rich history of our Old Girl past connecting with our future. The tags are presented to the Prep girls during their 100 days of Prep celebration which is always an exciting day of centenary celebrations.

To all our 2022 Prep girls, we look forward to watching your educational journey through St Catherine’s and supporting you as you emerge as St Catherine’s Alumnae, leading the way forward for yourself, our beloved School and the Old Girls’ community.

37St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association THE BULLETIN

MOTHER & DAUGHTER BREAKFAST

On Monday 2 May, I had the pleasure of attending the Mother & Daughter Breakfast which brought together mothers from Prep to Year 12 and their daughters.

It was lovely to connect with many mothers in the lead up to Mother’s Day. During the Breakfast, our guest speaker was Old Girl, Georgia Beattie (’04) who has forged a career around entrepreneurial endeavours which was a key theme of her presentation.

Post-school, Georgia studied at RMIT and had the opportunity to travel to the United States and study entrepreneurship at Babson College in Boston. Georgia has had 15 years’ experience as an entrepreneur and has taken every opportunity to learn, diversify and adopt a bold mindset in her career. There is little doubt that Georgia embodies a bold, resilient, independent, and creative mindset.

Georgia shared with the audience how she learnt differently during her schooling, pointing out to all the students in attendance that what might be a “perceived weakness at school, will be your greatest strength when you leave school, it will be your superpower.”

Her interest in contributing to organic, clean food that is tech-driven and sustainable has led her to become CEO and shareholder of Bulla Park, Australia’s largest organic mushroom farm. Georgia runs the farm like a tech company where she wants “agriculture to replicate nature.” Georgia’s entrepreneurial skills have led to a highly successful business where she offers an undergraduate program and childcare on-site for her 80 employees. She has partnered with Hyundai and is embracing robotic farming.

As she states, “as an entrepreneur you can choose your own adventure” and as a CEO you must “think differently,” and “problem solve.”

Her final message was encouraging students to “be brave and challenge” themselves in their studies, passions, and careers. Her speech resonated with both students and mothers. It was a joy to listen to Georgia speak about her journey, from her studies at St Catherine’s to being a successful entrepreneur and CEO. Her message is an important one for all to remember – that any challenges you may have in your learning, could very well be your superpower.

38 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022
1992 Year Group – 30 Year Reunion, Year Rep: Phoebe Smith (Moore ’92) 1982 Year Group – 40 Year Reunion, Year Reps: Melissa Doyle (Nicholas ’82) and Toni Joel (Silver ’82) 1982 Year Group replicating their Prep photo taken in 1970 2022 EVENTS & REUNIONS Friday 7 October 5.45pm – 8.00pm 5 Year Reunion – 2015, 2016, 2017 Thursday 13 October 6.30pm – 8.30pm Nil Magnum Nisi Bonum Inductees Event Sherren House Drawing Room Friday 14 October 5.45pm – 8.00pm 60 Year Reunion – 1962 Sherren House Drawing Room Friday 21 October 11.30am – 3.00pm Pre-1963 Reunion Luncheon 80th Anniversary of Warburton Sherren House Ballroom Thursday 27 October 6.00pm – 8.00pm SCOGA and Past Parents' Function Cranlana Friday 11 November 5.30pm – 8.00pm 25 Year Reunion – 1995, 1996, 1997 Saturday 26 November 9.45am – 11.15am SCOGA AGM Sherren House Ballroom 39St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association THE BULLETIN

Weddings

Births 1. Emma (Ryan ’06) and Peter Antonopoulos a daughter, Penelope Christina. 2. Fiona Duthie (’03) and Michael Evans, a daughter, Mia Harriet. 3. Renée (Homewood ’11) and Joshua Robinson, a daughter, Paris. 4. Annabelle (Lovell ’12) and Elliott Kavanagh, identical twin boys, James Elliott and Hugo Edward. 5. Laura (Homewood ’09) and Andrew Bassett, a son, Louis Ronald. 1 2 3
Sarah DeJong, Marnie McColl (’09), Olivia Shackell (’09), Samantha Eccles (Garrisson ’09), Matron of Honor Kristina Mahon (Moussalli ’09), Stephanie Lambert (’09), and Rafaella Lechte (’09) Lucy Court (’11) to Harry Baylis Samantha Garrisson (’09) to James Eccles
St Catherine’s News Spring 202240

Life Celebrations

1. Sally Hartmanis (’10) engaged to James Sansom.

2. Brook Maat (’16) has spent the past seven weeks in New York City for a work secondment. Brooke benefited from the opportunity by gaining invaluable experiences working on international projects. Along the way, she has immersed herself within the New York culinary scene and explored every inch of the city. She hopes to have further opportunities in the coming year to continue working on an international scale.

3. Sally Hartmanis (’10) has been offered a full scholarship, covering tuition and an annual stipend, to study for a PhD in Health Economics and Genomics at the University of Oxford starting in October this year.

Topic: Valuing the outcomes associated with genome sequencing in economic evaluations.

Department: Health Economics Research Centre (HERC) within the Department of Population Health.

Funders: Clarendon Fund Scholarship, Mary Somerville Scholarship, and a Department of Population Health Studentship.

4. Natalie Sinicka (’20) has secured an early internship offer at Deutsche Bank. The internship will introduce Natalie to the world of investment banking, where she will be provided training for technical and soft skills, while simultaneously be given with the opportunity to work on live M&A projects.

4 5
1 Sally Hartmanis (’10) and James Sansom 3 Sally Hartmanis (’10) and Marianne Hartmanis 2 Brook Maat (’16) far right 4 Natalie Sinicka (’20)
41St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association THE BULLETIN

Obituaries Wendy Hampel (Macdonald 51)

Wendy was born in Stawell 1934. She attended St Catherine’s from 1948 to 1952, within which time she was Boarders’ Captain in 1951 and Templeton House Captain in 1952.

A kind-hearted and giving person, Wendy volunteered extensively within her community, serving as the 2002 SCOGA Secretary and Reunion Coordinator, as well as providing transport assistance to the vision impaired for 35 years, to which Wendy received the Tilley Ashton Award for long service to the Association for the Blind. Wendy was also Treasurer of the Berry Street Babies Home Board of Management, Tasmanian Rose Society Committee Member and Catering Manager for the Red Hill Auxiliary of Peninsula Home Hospice where she raised more than $440,000 in 10 years and knitted hundreds of small animals to raise funds.

After School, Wendy became a Mothercraft Nurse and was also an avid knitter, winning Best Knitting at the Red Hill Show for two years, as well as Best Rose in the Red Hill, Balnarring and Hobart Shows.

Along with her many lifetime achievements, Wendy is fondly remembered by her supportive families and her many, many friends and godchildren. We remember her passion for cooking, gorgeous sheepdogs, travelling, gardening, knitted heirloom vests and sweaters and cuddly toys.

"Let us not grieve for her loss, but rather give thanks for knowing her." St Augustine.

Fae Border (Gerrand ’51)

Dr Max Darby

HEAD OF ART, ST CATHERINE’S

Dr Max Darby came to St Catherine’s with a wealth of experience and knowledge of teaching the Visual Arts. He was a passionate and enthusiastic teacher, who took time to know and understand an individual student’s strengths, guiding them in their creative pursuits, at School and beyond. He took great pleasure in seeing them flourish and kept in contact with them as they developed their careers in the visual arts.

Max ensured that in his time at St Catherine’s the Visual Arts in the Senior years grew, from less than 10 students to multiple classes, and his legacy continues with many students undertaking a Visual Art subject at VCE. He lifted the profile of Visual Arts by demonstrating the value in creative thinking subjects, the importance of allowing students to take artistic risks and explore their individual talents across the performing and visual arts. Max spent a great deal of time planning the building of studios in Wiltondale, a move from the Craft and Art cottages, ensuring the space accommodated the students and the various art forms we still use today. Unfortunately, he did not have the chance to work in them, but we are very grateful for the space we now use. He worked closely with Michael Bond to develop the successful House Arts Program.

Max’s involvement with developing curriculum, writing art texts, examination for VCAA and IB continued during his time at St Catherine’s and in the years after. He never lost his passion for teaching, working in Fiji for a number of years, running workshops and art-in-residencies, sharing his artistic ideas and skills with so many. He was a great mentor to many teachers, and it was he who encouraged me to teach in the Senior classes, seeing in me skills that I was reluctant to use. He very rarely said no to a student or staff request, as long as you could justify what you wanted to do.

Max remained a very loyal member of the St Catherine’s community, becoming an Honorary Member of SCOGA and still referred to himself as a Langley Templeton

girl! I have received many messages from his past students, saddened at the passing of Mr Dee. They hold such fond memories of their time in the Art Cottage.

“Max always saw the potential in his students and brought out the best in them. He made them feel ‘seen.’ He gave me the confidence to pursue a career in painting, and I wouldn’t be where I am today as an artist without his guidance and support. At times, it was afternoons in the Art Room with Max that got me through the rigours of being a boarder and being away from my family. He was a good friend as well as a mentor to me.” Rowena Martinich (’97)

It is with such great sadness that I reflect on my friendship with Max and all that he shared with me at St Catherine’s. There were many experiences we shared to demonstrate the importance of a Visual Art education for all students. He instilled confidence and pride in creating art that was individual and expressive, so encouraged Art staff to create group work in the Junior School and Senior School, a large mural with Year 7 students to celebrate our Astronaut-in-Residence with Dr Rhea Seddon, working with Ms Deborah Halpern in the Junior School, whole School exhibitions and the VCE Art Exhibition each year was a highlight to showcase the students’ creativity. He will be missed by us, but more importantly his loving family, Judy, Christopher, Kimberlee and grandchildren Jordan, Evie and William.

Ms Brigid Weereratne Art Teacher

SCHOOL 1994-2005
Mr Max Darby with student Sarah Rodd (’02)
42 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

Virginia Edwards AM (Smith 56)

I am so proud of the things Mum did over her life, the strong and enduring friendships, her kindness and care for others and her outstanding dedication to the two organisations she adored – St Catherine’s and Lort Smith Animal Hospital.

Mum was one of the longest-serving committee members of the St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association. She was President in 1982 and in 1983, the year I was ViceCaptain of the School. I have such happy memories of Mum being there at our final School events and services and her great interest in my friends. In 1995 and 1996 she was President again for the milestone 100th Anniversary of St Catherine’s.

Mum’s knowledge of the history of St Catherine’s and her friendships with generations of Old Girls was extraordinary. She also had an uncanny ability to recall people and places and all the special stories that are part of the fabric of the organisations.

She knew so much about the history of the School, the trips to Castlemaine and the stories of the students who were evacuated to Warburton during the war. The rebuilding of Barbreck first time around, the stunning changes over the years to the Senior School and she was part of the community serving alongside all the Principals since Miss Davis took the helm.

Mum treasured her time working with a dynamic team of women like Karin Mackinnon (Allen ’39), Wendy Hampel (Macdonald ’51), Tess Stephens (Bodman ’54), Pamela Williams (Granowski ’51), Diana Brélaz (Deutgen ’44), June Mason (Geddes ’49) and Prue Weber (Larritt ’62). Later with Liz Bostock (Carter ’63), Sally Ahern (Watson ’74), Kate Barber (’96), Phoebe Norman (Olsen ’95) and Abigail Hand (Hossack ’83) to name just a few of the fabulous SCOGA Committee Members over the years.

Years of card and tennis days, Christmas lunches and reunions, and the AGMs all captured by Mum with her trusty

camera. Then there were long days at St John’s for the Jumble Sales where she headed out early for the onslaught. Mixing the Christmas puddings and the giant containers of chicken salad feature in the many albums of vivid images of the girls busy at work in the old tuck shop.

Things weren’t as sophisticated as they are today, but these marvellous Old Girls certainly helped to create a unique camaraderie and network of past students committed to keeping strong connections to their beloved school. They have all contributed their time, skills and, love of St Catherine’s to support the future generations of St Catherine’s Girls.

Mum would come home and tell me regularly about the new Old Girls who had returned to the Drawing Room and seemed to recall so much about their passions and studies. She always loved meeting the original Old Girls who had been students at Castlemaine. Mum loved St Catherine’s and was so proud to be part of the extraordinary group of St Catherine’s women. She knew and kept connected with the teachers who had taught her and followed their careers and retirement, encouraging them to stay connected with the School.

As many remember, Mum also spent hours behind the camera and captured decades of Old Girls’ events and gatherings, documenting the activities, and ensuring that names and years were recorded.

Although Mum was unable to visit the School in recent years, she remained immensely proud of being part of the community and particularly being recognised in the Nil Magnum Nisi Bonum Project. This was such a thrill for Mum as she was acknowledged for her service to Lort Smith Animal Hospital where she volunteered for over 50 years and served for over 35 years on the Board.

She chaired the Hospital’s Fundraising Committee and being part of the new Hospital building in 2010 and worked

tirelessly as an advocate for the welfare, care, and support of sick and injured animals.

She was honoured in the Australia Day Honours as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant service to the community as an advocate for the welfare, care, and support of sick and injured animals and to philanthropy.

An award made even more special as Mum was presented the award by another St Catherine’s Old Girl, the Honourable Linda Dessau AC.

Eliza Bellmaine (Edwards ’83)

Vale

Patricia (Sally) Chirnside

Lady Anna Cowen

Dr Robert

Camilla Fligelman

Vandra Freger

Angela Glover

Jennifer Jeffries

4 JANUARY 1940 – 31 OCTOBER 2021
(Vine ’54)
AM (Wittner ’42)
(Max) Darby (Past Staff 1994 – 2005)
(Chance ’57)
(Gawith ’64)
(’58)
(Ramsay ’47) 43St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association THE BULLETIN

Clementine Abbott Anna Nieuwenhuysen (’91)

Sophie Abbott Anna Nieuwenhuysen (’91)

Camilla Aberdeen Nina Kirby (’94)

Maya Anagnostopoulos Melissa MeredithSmith (’85)

Fleur Angenent Emma Stanley (’97) Susan Connor (’61)

Giselle Armstrong Lachlan Armstrong (Old Boy ’95) Toni Pierce (’67)

Ziabella Armstrong Lachlan Armstrong (Old Boy ’95) Toni Pierce (’67)

Summer Balla-Kellett Mandy Balla (’86)

Charlotte Bell Sue Catchlove (’59)

Zara Bongiorno Felicity Miller (’87)

Katie Cacopardo Christina Smith (’88) Prudence Whitehead (’61)

Annabel Calvert Fleur McKay (’94) Sarah Baillieu (’68) Margaret Cox (’35)

Clara Calvert Fleur McKay (’94) Sarah Baillieu (’68) Margaret Cox (’35)

Nina Calvert Fleur McKay (’94) Sarah Baillieu (’68) Margaret Cox (’35)

Violetta Capanni Anna Foley (’92)

Poppy Cashmore Lucy Olsen (’97)

Annabelle Christensen Marion Carlisle (’28)

Milla Cohen Susan Adamson (’90)

Pernilla Coleman Kirsty Gilmour (’86)

Saskia Coleman Kirsty Gilmour (’86)

Hugo Collins Olivia Thompson (’00)

Scarlett Davis Briely Trollope (’89) Helen Crankshaw (’59)

Madeleine de Fina-Nash Geraldine de Fina (’89)

Sibella Deague William Deague (Old Boy ’95)

Alice Dobbin Fiona Goldstraw (’90)

Jessica Dobbin Fiona Goldstraw (’90)

Willow Douglas Elizabeth Gillon (’67)

Maggie Dryden Victoria Krauss (’92) Prudence Spinney (’68) Margaret Spinney (’42)

Jessica Elshaug Sarah Moffatt (’93)

Amelia Esposito Suzanne Davies (’91)

Sarah Fanning Samantha St Hill (’87)

Holly Farrer Susie Cook (’93)

Madeleine Farrer Susie Cook (’93)

Sophie Farrer Susie Cook (’93)

Arabella Foote Sarah Scambler (’93) Margaret Drummond (’62)

Child Mother Grandmother Great Grandmother

Olivia Fortey Lucy King (’90) Pamela Rome (’63)

Ed Goorjian-Taft Gemma Goorjian (’02)

Anoushka Graham Sophie McSweeney (’93)

Lucy Green

Isabella Stokes OAM (’58)

Eliza Grey Georgina McConnell (’88) Margaret Lemmon (’61)

Madison Grey Georgina McConnell (’88) Margaret Lemmon (’61)

Chloe Handbury Georgina Seccull (’86)

Tania Hay Sophia Canet (’00)

Imogen Herron Prue Lording (’96)

Emma Hessell Amy Lawford (’01) Sarah Wilson (’73) Ethne Hartnett (’49)

Emma Hoban Minnie Law (’83)

Zahra Hoban Minnie Law (’83)

Olivia Howitt Michaela Grogan (’86)

Amelia Hyams Ann Pisterman (’64)

Isabella Jamieson Emily StephenDaly (’98)

Lily Jamieson Emily StephenDaly (’98)

Evie Joseph Jonathan Joseph (Old Boy ’95) Louise Strauss (’62) Shirley Ellinson (’42)

Alex Kimpton Xenia Hammon (’01)

Charlotte Krumins Elizabeth Fry (’02)

Holly Landrigan Margaret Guy (’89)

Amelie Lane Lisa Tarasio (95)

Timothy Lane Lisa Tarasio (95)

Adelaide Lempriere Diana Dougall (’57)

Cassandra Lie Kelly Clemenger (’80)

Sophie Lovell Sarah Leahey (’82)

Coco Lutz Rebecca Paranthoiene (’97) Robin Richards (’74) Jill Sargood (’48)

Zoe McComas Phoebe Hammon (’04) Barbara Boynton (’73) Jill Warnock (’46)

Millie McIntosh Kate Correll (87) Brenda Pulling (’49) Phyllis Rowell (’31)

Skye McIntosh Kate Correll (87) Brenda Pulling (’49) Phyllis Rowell (’31)

Sophia McKinnon Anna Tracy (’87)

Chloe McMahon Caroline Morgan (’95)

Phoebe Messum Catherine Stoney (’97)

Alexandra Mirabella Sophie Panopoulos (’86)

Adelaide Mitchell Katie Krauss (’90) Prudence Krauss (’68) Margaret Spinney (’42)

Nadia Mohamed Farah Pasha (’91)

Child Mother Grandmother Great Grandmother
CURRENT STUDENTS OF ALUMNAE (All mothers,
grandmothers and great-grandmothers are listed by
maiden name) 44 St Catherine’s News Spring 2022

Willowbella (Willow) Moore Camilla Fox (’11)

Missy Morley Bonnie Morris (’93) Joan Spooner (’61)

Charlotte Morris Claire Simm (’97)

Charlotte Myer Annabel Plummer (’82)

Chloe Nevins Simone Willis (’91)

Aria Nguyen Amy Burr (’03)

Martha Officer Clara Officer (’80)

Jessica Paterson Sophie Nicholas (’89)

Emma Peele Elizabeth Gillon (’67)

Zara Peele Elizabeth Gillon (’67)

Alexandra Pitt Fleur Forsyth (’99) Patricia Loveless (’66)

Nina Portnoy Jane Davis (’85)

Sarah Pratt Jill Cannon (’66)

Scarlett Pringle Marnie Ross (’92) Victoria Jacobson (’65)

Clover Roche Nicholas Roche (Old Boy ’93)

Charlotte Rodgers Marion Teare (’50)

Ellie Rodski Maggie Harrison (’99) Jane Morris (’71) Julie Davey (’51)

Eloise Rudge Rowena Williams (’87) Pamela Granowski (’51)

Scarlet Russell Bianca Russell (’95)

Anna Shears Penny Roysmith (’81) Betty Shields (’51)

Scarlett Shelton Letitia Cole (’58) Maroa Molesworth (’25)

Pippa Shergold Holly Tinsley (’89) Margaret James (’61)

Jessica Sibly Lucinda Langdon (’88) Janet James (’58)

Isabella Soutter James Soutter (Old Boy ’92) Prue Macnaughtan (’62)

Katharine Soutter James Soutter (Old Boy ’92) Prue Macnaughtan (’62)

Billy Speer Camilla Deague (’02)

Chloe Stansfield Meredith Dwyer (’88)

Violet Stephens Emma Millis (’89)

Lily-Belle Stephens Emma Millis (’89)

Elizabeth Switkowski Georgina Hinton (’99)

Henri Switkowski Georgina Hinton (’99)

Harriet Syme Angela Tait (’59)

Annabel Taylor Melissa Sweetland (’86)

Lily Taylor Melissa Sweetland (’86)

Camilla Thomas Julia Hammon (’00) Barbara Boynton (’73) Jill Warnock (’46)

Child Mother Grandmother Great Grandmother

Coco Thomas Ineke Hay (’98)

Mirabelle Thomson Rebecca Jockel (’98)

Camilla Tulloch Jacki Palmer (’97) Mary Calvert (’38), Beth Paxton (’34)

Charlotte Upton Lisa Hinrichsen (’83) Jill Smith (’55)

Giselle Upton Lisa Hinrichsen (’83) Jill Smith (’55)

Mia Upton Lisa Hinrichsen (’83) Jill Smith (’55)

Lily Van der Venne Susannah Guy (’96) Suzanne Holden (’50)

Pippa Van der Venne Suzanne Holden (’50)

Georgiana Walsh Fiona Kittson (’82)

Scarlett Webster Jonathan Webster (Old Boy ’97)

Toby Webster Shea Miller (’00), Alexander Webster (Old Boy ’01)

Clementine Wilson Annabelle McSweeney (’92)

Pia Zayontz Anna Davis (’87)

Next Annual General Meeting

The 102nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association (SCOGA)

Saturday 26 November 2022, 10.00am Sherren House Ballroom

All Old Girls are welcome to attend in person or online. Any changes to AGM arrangements will be emailed to those registered to attend or available to view on the School website.

To attend online, please register with the Secretary at scoga@stcatherines.net.au to receive a meeting link.

Any member who would like to bring business before the AGM is required to give notice in writing to the Secretary no later than Saturday 29 October 2022.

RSVP by Friday 11 November 2022 to the Secretary: Manon Dennison (’15) | scoga@stcatherines.net.au

Child Mother Grandmother Great Grandmother
CURRENT STUDENTS OF ALUMNAE (All mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers are listed by maiden name)
45St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association THE BULLETIN
www.stcatherines.net.au 17 Heyington Place, Toorak Victoria, Australia 3142 T +61 3 9822 1285 E info@stcatherines.net.au CRICOS 00574F ABN 90 004 251 816 www.facebook.com/stcatherinesschooltoorak @stcatherinesschool www.linkedin.com/company/st-catherines-school Join the St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association (SCOGA) closed group page on LinkedIn. This page is set up for Old Girls to communicate, network and hear about upcoming alumnae events. Once you are a member you can then share with other Old Girls in your LinkedIn network.

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