Fideliter April 2015 edition

April 2015

St Ma r y’ s Anglican Gi rls’ S ch ool PP Nu mbe r 100004440

FIDELITER

RHODES TO SUCCESS

Our newest Rhodes Scholar begins her journey at Oxford

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PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

28 OUT AND ABOUT

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BOARD OF GOVERNORS

29 2015 EVENTS CALENDAR

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CHAPL AIN’S REPORT

30 ARCHIVAL ANECDOTES

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FROM THE FOUNDATION

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DESTINATIONS OF THE CL ASS OF 2014 400 Club and High Flyers

32 PARENTS’ SOCIET Y AND ST MARY’S AUXILIARY

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RHODES TO SUCCESS

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SENIOR SCHOOL NEWS Achievements Meet our Head Girl, Sarah Coopes Overseas travel with friends Lights. Camera. Achievement.

Year 7 Camp 2015 Year 7 Profiles New Beginnings for our Country Girls

25 JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS Learning to Lead Our Trip to Rottnest New Beginnings in Robotics Girls, Girls Everywhere

33 OLD GIRLS’ PRESIDENT REPORT Do you know a remarkable Old Girl?

Young Old Girls celebrate summer in style 34 OLD GIRLS NEWS AND EVENTS New Beginnings New Hospital: New Beginnings Helen Judge Art Award 2014 Old Girls’ Day 2015: Celebrating your memories Reunions News from Old Girls 42 VALE

COVER PHOTO

FIDELITER INFORMATION

Rhodes Scholars, Dr Marina Hughes (Barbour ’83) and Amy Steinepreis (’08)

Fideliter is a publication of St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School. please direct all correspondence to:

St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School, PO Box 105 Karrinyup WA 6921 telephone: (08) 9341 9111 fascimile: (08) 9341 9222 email: stmarys@stmarys.wa.edu.au editors: Anne Pesic, Jo Johnson and Rebecca Brown design and production: Dessein

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PRINCIPAL’S REPORT A SENSE OF NEW BEGINNINGS FILLED DANNATT HALL AS, AT THE OPENING FORMAL ASSEMBLY, MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2015 MADE THEIR PLEDGE TO LEAD THE SCHOOL WITH ENTHUSIASM, DEDICATION AND DIGNITY. SARAH COOPES, HEAD GIRL FOR 2015, MADE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL AND ENGAGING SPEECH ABOUT HER CHILDHOOD HERO, DUMBO. SHE ENCOURAGED THE GIRLS TO BE THEIR OWN PERSON, BE PREPARED TO BE DIFFERENT, AND LIKE DUMBO, USE THEIR TALENTS TO WONDER, WANDER AND TAKE SOME RISKS ON THEIR JOURNEY TO GROW INTO OUTSTANDING YOUNG WOMEN. IT WAS A GREAT START TO THE YEAR.

The Class of 2014 commence a new path too, as they begin their post-school studies at universities across Australia. We were absolutely delighted with the WACE results that they achieved. Our special congratulations go to Kriti Sharma, Jill Brouwer and Cassandra Lee, all of whom were General Exhibition award recipients, placing them in the top 40 students in Western Australia. The Class of 2014 have made diverse study choices at universities across Australia and overseas.

Their futures look very bright indeed.

Later this year, Amy Steinepreis (’08), Western Australia’s Rhodes Scholar for 2015, will head to Oxford to commence postgraduate studies. This will be a new beginning indeed and one that will no doubt change Amy’s life significantly. We, here at St Mary’s, are immensely proud of Amy as a scholar and a person. We are very pleased to have been part of her journey this far and no doubt her achievement will inspire others to follow. It was serendipitous that Marina Hughes (Barbour ’83) was the guest speaker at Speech Night last December. Dr Hughes was our first and only Rhodes Scholar until Amy’s award was announced in late 2014.

Our two Rhodes had an opportunity in December to meet up in Perth and talk about times past and what the future may hold.

A new beginning is ahead for Joan Karmelita and for St Mary’s. Ms Karmelita will be retiring from her position as Deputy Principal and Dean of Students in September.

Ms Karmelita has held the position of Dean of Students since 1998. She has been integral to helping the girls set and maintain high personal and presentation standards.

More importantly though, she has cared for girls who have needed advice, a sounding board and a shoulder to lean on, as though they were her own daughters.

Naughty or nice, troubled or happy and everything inbetween, Ms Karmelita has given them her time and walked the extra mile over and over. Her ability to be there when life was complicated has been critical to the well-being of many a girl. We all wish Ms Karmelita a wonderful new beginning.

A huge thank-you to members of our community who contributed to our first Annual Giving. Over $115,000 was raised and, as planned, has gone to supporting the Scholarship Fund, e-books and the soon-to-becompleted Marlene Carter Heritage Centre. I was pleased to thank our donors personally at an afternoon function held in late March. In May the Annual Giving for 2015 will be launched. I encourage those who have already given to continue to do so, and those who have not as yet, to make a start, no matter how small ... or large!

Finally, I wish to acknowledge Mr Les Hearn, Chairman of the Board of Governors from 1986 to 2001, who passed away in January. St Mary’s was indeed blessed with a loyal, generous and insightful leader. Farewell, dear friend.

Lynne Thomson Principal

Above: Joan Karmelita, Deputy Principal/Dean of Students

Principal’s Report

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BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Back row (l-r): Mr George Turnbull, Mr Roger Veary (Treasurer), Mrs Gillian Jenkins, Mr Ian Hardy, Mr Peter Mead (Director of Finance and Administration), Professor Desiree Silva, Miss Amanda Williams. Front row (l-r): Mrs Tanya Hazelden (Parents’ Society representative), Mrs Lynne Thomson (Principal), The Most Reverend Roger Herft (Archbishop of Perth), Mr Ian Curlewis (Chairman), Mrs Jane Gillon (Vice Chairman), Mrs Jane Crisp (Old Girls’ representative).

DURING 2014, A NUMBER OF CAPITAL WORKS PROJECTS APPROVED BY THE BOARD WERE COMMENCED OR COMPLETED. SIGNIFICANT AMONG THOSE PROJECTS WERE THE BUILDING OF THREE CLASSROOMS IN THE SENIOR SCHOOL, THE EXTENSION OF THE BOARDING HOUSE TO ACCOMMODATE ADDITIONAL YEAR 7 BOARDERS FROM 2015, REFURBISHMENT OF THE GIRLS’ TOILETS IN THE SENIOR SCHOOL, REFURBISHMENTS OF TWO SCIENCE LABORATORIES AND FOUR CLASSROOMS IN THE SENIOR SCHOOL, AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NEW UNIFORM SHOP AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE SCHOOL.

The new archives building, to be named the Marlene Carter Heritage Centre, was also established. Miss Carter is an Old Girl (’63), former President of the Old Girls’ Association and member of the Board of Governors, and current Vice Chairman of the Foundation.

In the first half of 2014, the Board held a day-long retreat with the school’s Executive. The retreat was conducted by an external facilitator. It was a productive and thought-provoking meeting which enabled the Board and Executive to discuss informally strategic matters, our shared passion for this wonderful school, and planning for the future.

The Board changed during 2014 with the retirement of Carmelo Arto as the Parents’ Society representative.

Current Parents’ Society President, Tanya Hazelden, took his place. Two new Diocesan Council appointments were made to the Board in Ian Hardy (Warden of St George’s College at the University of Western Australia) and Amanda Williams (Partner at PriceWaterhouseCoopers and Old Girl).

It was with great sadness that the Board learned of the passing of Mr Les Hearn, long-serving member of the Board of Governors and Chairman from 1986 - 2001. Mr Hearn loved St Mary’s. He was immensely loyal to the school and a generous benefactor to school projects.

We are pleased that Mr Hearn had the joy of being present for the naming of Hearn Hall in his honour in March 2011.

It is a privilege to lead and be a member of the Board of Governors at St Mary’s. Board members are all committed to contributing their efforts and expertise to assist the school to achieve and maintain its high standards and its place as one of the best schools in Western Australia. I wish to thank all Board members for their voluntary contribution that they so generously and proudly provide.

I also thank Mrs Lynne Thomson as Principal and the school Executive, as well as all teaching, support, and administrative staff, for their contributions to the school and to the education of our students during 2014 and, now, in 2015.

Ian Curlewis Chair of the Board of Governors

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Board of Governors

CHAPL AIN’S REPORT DO YOU EVER WISH YOU COULD START AGAIN? WE ALL HAVE DAYS, WEEKS, EVEN YEARS, THAT SEEM DISASTROUS AND, IN MOMENTS OF REFLECTION, WE WISH WE COULD START AGAIN AND DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY. REGRETTABLY, WE CAN’T. BUT WE CAN LEAVE THINGS BEHIND AND START AGAIN. NEW BEGINNINGS ARE POSSIBLE!

A little exercise I am fond of passing on to the girls is this: Sit down with two sheets of paper and a pen. On the first piece of paper, make a list of things that have hurt you, things you regret having said or done, and any negative thoughts that weigh on your mind. On the second piece of paper, make a list of things that have made you feel happy, that are positive, such as your achievements.

These things do not have to be huge moments of enlightenment; the fleeting feelings of goodness and happiness are just as important as the big stuff. When you have completed both lists, tear up the piece of paper with the list of hurts and disappointments, and put it in the bin. Throw it away. Keep the feel-good list and remember what it contains. You will always be able to come back to it knowing that you can start afresh, having left behind the negative baggage.

This exercise is a way of seeing that new beginnings are possible. Each school year is a new beginning, as is each term.

In the Church, Easter is regarded as the time to celebrate new beginnings. The Easter season commemorates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, and is the most significant Christian festival. It is at the heart of Christianity. Good Friday recalls the death of Jesus on a cross and His burial in a tomb. When Jesus’s closest friends (mainly the women) went to the tomb very early on the Sunday morning, they encountered the unexpected - the news that Jesus was not there, and that He had been raised from the dead.

This is what Easter is all about: God surprising us with new beginnings and possibilities. It is about believing that, with the Risen Christ, the impossible can be possible.

In Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass, the White Queen tells Alice that, as a young girl, she practised believing impossible things for half an hour each day.

“Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast,” the White Queen said.

She tells Alice that she too, should believe in impossibilities.

During the 50 days of Easter, the faithful become believers in the impossible. It is a time when we are encouraged to think about what can be done, rather than what cannot be done.

Perhaps one of the best Christian symbols of new beginnings, or new life, is the Easter egg. The egg is a symbol of fertility. The symbol predates Christianity, but was quickly adopted to explain the message of Easter.

The Romans had the proverb, “Omne vivum ex ovo”, which means, “All life comes from an egg”.

From the earliest days, Christians have communicated their belief in the Risen Christ through symbols and rituals. They took the ancient and ordinary symbol of the egg and used it to represent new life and the possibility of new beginnings.

Christians saw the egg’s shell as a symbol of the protective darkness of the life-giving tomb. The image of a chick hatching from its shell represented the Risen Christ emerging from the tomb on Easter morning. The egg’s shape, with neither beginning nor end, was a symbol of eternity.

The egg also symbolised the ‘womb’ of the tomb, where the Crucified was given new life.

May St Mary’s be a place of new beginnings and possibilities for your daughters.

The Reverend Geraldine Nixon School Chaplain

Left: Eva Peovitis, Catherine Bock (Chapel Day Prefect) and Grace Hickey

Chaplain’s Report

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FROM THE FOUNDATION THANKS TO YOU OUR SINCERE THANKS TO ALL OUR GENEROUS DONORS WHO MADE A GIFT TO ST MARY’S DURING 2014. YOU ARE HELPING US TO ENSURE ST MARY’S REMAINS AT THE FOREFRONT OF GIRLS’ EDUCATION, AND WE ARE SO GRATEFUL TO YOU FOR THE EXTRA OPPORTUNITIES YOU ENABLE US TO PROVIDE FOR OUR STUDENTS.

We are delighted to share with you that the 2014 Annual Giving, the first appeal of its kind for almost a decade, raised more than $115,000. This fantastic support will help us to establish an e-library in the Junior and Senior Schools, develop the new Archives Heritage Centre, and build our scholarship fund, so that we can offer places at St Mary’s to girls whose families do not have the means for them to attend our school.

Thanks to the support of our donors, we were able also to continue presenting a number of prizes at Speech Night, held in December 2014, as well as establish four new prizes and a significant scholarship for Old Girls, enhance cultural learning opportunities, and expand our Learning Support resources.

Just prior to Fideliter going to print, it was our pleasure to host donors and their families at a special ‘Thanks to You’ High Tea in the Elizabeth Myles Library. Supporters were able to see the new e-library in action, visit the Archives Heritage Building as it nears completion and hear from an Old Girl who benefitted from a scholarship at St Mary’s.

It was a wonderful afternoon and allowed us to show how every gift, no matter its size, makes a difference to our students.

It is with great pleasure that we list here the names of everyone who made a gift last year in recognition of their support for our students and school. It is heart-warming to know that so many of you share our vision to create the very best learning environment and opportunities for our students.

Thank you for all you have done.

Ron Farris Chairman of the Board of Management of the Foundation

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT INSPIRES MEMBERS OF THE BEQUEST SOCIET Y ON WEDNESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2014, MEMBERS OF THE BISHOP RILEY BEQUEST SOCIETY ENJOYED THE ANNUAL SOCIETY DINNER, HOSTED BY PRINCIPAL, MRS LYNNE THOMSON, AND CHAIRMAN OF THE FOUNDATION, MR RON FARRIS. THE DINNER WAS HELD FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE ELIZABETH MYLES LIBRARY.

Society members and guests heard from Dr Emma Dudman (’01), who benefitted from the generosity of a bequest to St Mary’s. In 2005, Dr Dudman was a recipient of the Esmee Byatt Scholarship in Medicine, an award for Old Girls made possible through the bequest of Esmee Byatt (Templeton ’30).

Dr Dudman remarked on the difference the financial support had made to her time as a medical student and how touching it was that someone from so long ago had chosen to consider those who came after her.

Above: Members of the Bishop Riley Society with Emma Dudman (pictured fourth from right)

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From the Foundation

In 2014, we welcomed four new members to the Society. The Bishop Riley Society welcomes, acknowledges and thanks those members of our school community who have made a gift to St Mary’s in their will. If you would like to find out more about leaving a bequest to St Mary’s, please contact Linzey Allinson, Community Relations Manager, on (08) 9341 9120 or lallinson@stmarys.wa.edu.au

THANK YOU TO OUR 2014 DONORS OUR SINCERE THANKS TO PARENTS, OLD GIRLS, STAFF AND FRIENDS WHO GENEROUSLY DONATED TO THE FOUNDATION AND SCHOOL DURING 2014. YOUR GENEROSITY HELPS US TO CREATE AN INSPIRING LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND OFFER A WEALTH OF LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES TO OUR STUDENTS.

2014 Annual Giving for the Scholarship Fund, Building Fund and Library Fund yy Helen Adams yy Linzey Allinson yy Berna Anning yy Christine Antoine yy Attwill Family yy Anonymous yy Barton Family and Ella Barton (’15) yy Adrian Beck yy D and C Bedbrook yy Michael and Caterina Beer (Stephanie) yy Robyn Birkin yy Sandra Botica yy Bouckaert Family, Amanda Bouckaert (Van Rooyen ’02) yy Paul and Victoria Bradley yy Brindal Family yy Burke Family yy Bree Buxton (’98) yy Campbell Family yy Carey Family yy Elizabeth Carr yy Marlene Carter yy Anonymous yy Wendy and Ian Chidgey yy Christie Family yy N and T Christie yy Scott Crabb yy Jane Crisp (Cyprian ’81) yy Martina Crowley yy Mr and Mrs I Curlewis yy De Mattia Family (Gale ’90) yy Tricia and Frits de Vroet yy Andrea Dingley yy Diana Doran yy Melita (Pustkuchen ’76) and Bruce Enright yy Peter Evans yy Ron Farris yy K and J Forrest yy Mr and Mrs Gardner, Nerida Gardner (Darmody ’87) yy Emma L Gerloff yy Rodger and Judith Gibson yy Gabriella Giglia yy Gillon Family

yy Elizabeth Gorey yy Gosatti Family yy Dharshana Gunasekera yy Cheryl Haak yy Hancock Family yy Gene and Amanda Hannington yy Dorothy Harbisher yy Kerrie and Ian Hardy yy Mr N and Mrs A Harrison yy Patricia Hawkey (’88) yy Hazelden Family yy Anonymous yy Erica Herron yy Jolie Hewitt yy Anonymous yy Kym and Linda Isaacson yy Claire Jeffery yy Gill Jenkins yy Kahane Family yy Joan Karmelita yy Michael Keong yy Melissa Kidd yy Koranis Family yy Poonam Kulkarni yy Keiller/Lea Family yy Tao and May Lim yy Tessa Lim (’14) yy Lowe Family yy Major Family yy Lorrie Maley (Rowledge ’33) yy Wendy Mann yy Martino Family yy Steven and Sandra McAlpine yy Anonymous yy Katherine Mead (’05) yy Peter and Kerryn Mead yy Yulia Merrill yy Mandy Minshell yy Anonymous yy Anonymous yy Nash Family yy Vicki Neil (Reader ’68) yy Stephanie Neille yy Anonymous yy Ng Family yy Nguyen Family yy Packer Family yy L and M Palmer yy Natasha Papadimitriou (’15)

yy Anonymous yy Anonymous yy Reverend Joyce Polson yy Paul and Sharon Poon yy Richardson Family yy Rowe Family yy Ryan Family yy Carla Salmon yy Merrilees Salter (Lukin ’36) yy Saunders Family yy Anonymous yy Jenny Shaw yy Desiree Silva yy Anonymous yy Tatlow Family: Nicky, Claudia and Julia yy Lynne Thomson yy Thornton Family yy Dana Trtica yy Turnbull Family yy Louise Tyson yy Pamela Underwood yy Roger and Pam Veary yy Jade and Sophie Vella yy Ian and Ngaire Viner yy TA and JJ Walker yy Mr and Mrs Waltham yy Sharon Warburton yy Amanda Williams yy The Hon. Mrs Ann Woods (Byron ’50) Endowment Fund The families of all new students in 2014 who contributed to the Foundation’s Endowment Fund Building Fund yy Lady Treatt (Frankie Wilson ’32) Scholarship Fund yy The Class of 2014 yy Anonymous yy Anonymous yy Mrs H Hyslop (Judge ’50, Head Girl)

Speech Night Prizes yy Dr J Craig – In memory of Mrs Frances Craig yy Mrs M Freitag yy Mrs H Hyslop (Judge ’50) yy Mrs G Irwin (Stone ’74) yy Mrs A Jackson AM yy Mrs D Lane (Marshall ’79) yy Mrs R Phelps – In memory of Mrs R Rowell (Robinson ’33) yy Mrs M Stannage yy St Mary’s Auxiliary yy St Mary’s Old Girls’ Association yy Western Australian Journal of Medicine Bishop Riley Bequest Society We thank those who were members of the Bishop Riley Society in 2014 yy Ms K Allason (’89) yy Anonymous yy Ms B Buxton (’98) yy Ms E Carr (’81) yy Miss M Carter (’63) yy Mr I and Mrs W Chidgey yy Mr P Evans yy Mr R and Mrs J Farris yy Mrs J Gillon (Fisher ’70) yy Mrs A Jackson AM yy Ms J Milloy (’72) yy Reverend J Polson yy Mrs L Thomson We make every effort to ensure this list of names is correct. If an error has been made, please accept our sincere apologies and contact us so we can ensure this is corrected in future years.

From the Foundation

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BOARDERS ENJOY NEW ADDITIONS BOARDING STUDENTS HAVE BEEN MAKING GREAT USE OF THE NEW RECREATIONAL FACILITIES IN THE BOARDING HOUSE EXTENSION.

The new activity room offers the girls the space and facilities to bake and create after school and on the weekends. The upper two floors of the extension provide accommodation for an additional twenty boarders, bringing the number in our boarding family to 188. The Foundation was delighted to make a $1 million contribution to this important development, which will enhance after-school and weekend opportunities for boarders.

Above (l-r): Boarders, Taleisha Dyson, Finlay Moore, Maddison Rogers, Chiara Briotti, Savannah Gillett and Georgia McAlpine

MARLENE CARTER HERITAGE CENTRE WE ARE THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE NEW HERITAGE CENTRE, WHICH WILL HOUSE THE ARCHIVES, IS TO BE NAMED IN HONOUR OF OLD GIRL, MARLENE CARTER (’63). BUILDING WORK ON THE HERITAGE CENTRE IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY THE BEGINNING OF TERM 2.

Above: Marlene Carter (’63) with St Mary’s Archivist, Stephanie Neille

Marlene has been a generous and devoted supporter of St Mary’s for many years, serving as President of the Old Girls’ Association from 1988 - 1998 and as a member of the Board of Management of the Foundation since 1989. Marlene is also a Trustee of the Foundation and Chair of the Bishop Riley Bequest Society. She has also spent considerable time volunteering in the Archives, most recently assisting in the compilation of the Centenary Roll Call, which lists every student who has passed through the gates of St Mary’s since the school’s foundation.

The official opening of the Heritage Centre will take place later in the year.

Frankie’s Folly: Special Offer Frankie’s Folly wines are made from grapes grown at the St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School Foundation’s vineyard at St Mary’s at Metricup in the heart of the Margaret River wine region, and are produced by award-winning winery Redgate Wines.

Our red and white varieties are named after the late Lady Treatt (Frankie Wilson ’32), who made an exceptional donation towards the development of St Mary’s at Metricup: The Lady Treatt Centre for Learning and Leadership.

2012 Chardonnay

$10.00 per bottle ($120.00 per carton)

2012 Cabernet Sauvignon $12.00 per bottle ($144.00 per carton) 8

From the Foundation

To place your order, please visit

www.frankiesfolly.com.au

D ESTI NAT IONS OF THE CL ASS OF 2014

ST MARY’S ANGLICAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL IS VERY PROUD OF THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE CLASS OF 2014.

The girls not only posted strong results in their WACE examinations, but they also made significant contributions to the school community during their time at St Mary’s.

Two students, Jill Brouwer (ranked 26th) and Kriti Sharma (ranked 30th), achieved General Exhibitions, placing them among the top 40 students in Western Australia. A Special General Exhibition was awarded to Cassandra Lee (as a non-permanent resident of Australia). Her excellent score placed her in the top 25 students in the state.

Jill Brouwer achieved the top result in the state in Marine and Maritime Studies, while Cassidy Eastabrook did the same in Integrated Science. As there were fewer than 100 students within these courses, no Exhibition was awarded.

Three Certificates of Distinction, awarded for being in the top 0.5 per cent of the state, were achieved by: yy Abigail Luke and Stephanie Renshaw – English yy Jill Brouwer – Geography In addition to the above awards, nine Certificates of Commendation, awarded for achieving at least 20 A grades in Years 11 and 12, were received by St Mary’s students.

The girls who achieved at this level were Jill Brouwer, Julia Evans, Elle Leask, Tessa Lim, Abigail Luke, Aideen Myles, Stephanie Renshaw, Kriti Sharma and Brenna Varcoe.

Zoe Clayton was awarded an AustralianSuper Westscheme Division Award for Excellence in VET 2014.

The overall strength, as well as the hard work of the year group as a whole, is reflected in the Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks (ATARs) achieved by the students. The median ATAR for 2014 was 91.55, compared to the state median of 79.00.

From the cohort of 123 students who achieved an ATAR in 2014, we have the following impressive statistics: yy Five students achieved an ATAR of 99.0 or above (four per cent of the cohort). These students are placed in the top one per cent of all students in WA to achieve an ATAR. yy Nine students achieved an ATAR of 98 or above (7.2 per cent of the cohort), placing them in the top two per cent of students in WA. yy Thirty-three students achieved an ATAR of 95 or above (26.4 per cent of the cohort), which places them in the top five per cent of students in WA. yy Seventy students achieved an ATAR of 90 or above (56 per cent of the cohort), which places them in the top ten per cent of students in WA. These results give our students a large range of choices for tertiary studies.

Clockwise from left: General Exhibition Winners, Cassandra Lee, Kriti Sharma and Jill Brouwer

We congratulate them on their achievements, and acknowledge our teachers for their commitment and dedication in assisting the students to reach their potential.

Destinations of the Class of 2014

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CLASS OF 2014 DESTINATIONS

Interstate and International Ye ar Universities 15 1 ica lC oll eg es Univ 5 ersit y of Notr e Da me 8

G

ap

Te c

hn

UNIVERSIT Y OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Design Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science/ Bachelor of Arts Total

NO. OF STUDENTS WHO ENROLLED IN EACH COURSE

13 10 5 1 16 1

ity

och urd

8

Curtin University 34

2 1 1 4

NO. OF STUDENTS WHO ENROLLED IN EACH COURSE

MURDOCH UNIVERSIT Y

Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Science Total

8 2

Bachelor of Science Diploma in Music (Contemporary) Bachelor of Communications Bachelor of Education Total

Bachelor of Nursing Bachelor of Biomedical Science Bachelor of Physiotherapy/ Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science Foundation Year Programme (Health Sciences) Bachelor of Arts/ Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Arts Foundation Year Programme (Education) Total

9 6 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 34 NO. OF STUDENTS WHO ENROLLED IN EACH COURSE

Student travelling abroad Total

EDITH COWAN UNIVERSIT Y

NOTRE DAME UNIVERSIT Y

1

2 5 8

GAP YEAR

1 1

OTHER - INTERSTATE/INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITIES

University of Melbourne

3

University of New South Wales

2

Monash University, Melbourne

2

RMIT University, Melbourne

3

Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne

1

Charles Sturt University, New South Wales

1

University of Bristol, England University of San Diego, California University of Queensland Total

1 1 1 15

10

rs ive Un

M

NO. OF STUDENTS WHO ENROLLED IN EACH COURSE

Engineering Law Medicine Total

Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Arts/ Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Nursing Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Science/ Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Engineering/ Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Social Work Bachelor of Speech Pathology Total

Edith Cowan University 6

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ASSURED PATHWAYS

CURTIN UNIVERSIT Y

University of Western Australia 46

Destinations of the Class of 2014

TECHNICAL COLLEGES

Certificate IV in Residential Drafting Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery Diploma of Media and Television Diploma of Hospitality Certificate IV in Small Business Management Total

NO. OF STUDENTS WHO ENROLLED IN EACH COURSE

3 1 1 1 6

NO. OF STUDENTS WHO ENROLLED IN EACH COURSE

2 1 1 1 1 1 1

8 NO. OF STUDENTS WHO ENROLLED IN EACH COURSE

1 1 1 1 1 5

COURSE

• Bachelor of Science • Bachelor of Medical Science/ Doctorate of

Medicine, Bachelor of Commerce/ Bachelor of Science • Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery (Honours) • Bachelor of Industrial Design (Honours), Bachelor of Communications, Bachelor of Arts

• Bachelor of Industrial Design (Honours) • Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/ Bachelor of Veterinary Science

• Bachelor of Cellular and Molecular Medicine • Bachelor of Industrial Relations • Bachelor of Exercise and Nutrition Science

CASSANDRA LEE – SPECIAL GENERAL EXHIBITION What is university like? So far, it has been exhilarating, exciting, experiential, eventful and full of surprises! Every turn I take is an adventure, totally new, filled with unexpected outcomes.

To start my adventure, my flight to Melbourne was cancelled at the last minute and I had four hours of creative time to spend in the airport lounge before my next scheduled flight out of Perth. I must admit that I wasn’t looking forward to arriving in the dark, searching for my room and being the one to break the silence of the night with echoes of my luggage wheels on the gravel path to my residential hall! I was, however, pleasantly greeted by the security staff, given a quick brief, and escorted to my room with a breakfast pack in tow for tomorrow!

In the following days, I was swept up in a flurry of activities and events, both at my residential hall and university. I’ve successfully made my way to the Medical Faculty, enrolled in my medical course, got my student ID and even bought the right sized lab coat. I, unfortunately, got lost a couple of times at university campus but gained

KRITI SHARMA – GENERAL EXHIBITION Since doing work experience in a hospital during Year 10, my goal had always been to achieve an Assured Pathway into Medicine at the University of Western Australia. On 15 January this year, I received the news that this very goal had finally become a reality. After all the hard work I’d put in during Year 12, it was so amazingly overwhelming to realise that I’d reached the top of a mountain; a mountain which, during high school, I never thought had a peak.

It was also unsettling and unfamiliar to realize that life actually exists after Year 12, and now I have the liberty to create so many other goals to strive towards in my years to come.

Life after Year 12 is daunting but very exciting. I will be starting university and learning only about the things

JILL BROUWER – GENERAL EXHIBITION It has only been two weeks since I started university, but already things have been very busy. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Philosophy at the University of Western Australia (UWA). As part of my course, I attended a one-week summer residence at University Hall. Here, I got the opportunity to meet students studying the same degree as I would be. Getting to know everyone was definitely a highlight of my summer holidays, I loved it.

I have found that university is completely different from school. UWA is huge. Everywhere I go there are interesting people to meet - even though I often struggle to remember all of their names! The freedom is unbelievable, but it also comes with new responsibilities, such as organising your own timetable, and keeping up

friends along the way as we bonded, looking for short cuts instead to lecture theatres. I’ve also experienced the thrill of doing the Mexican wave in a lecture hall packed with students, and found my way to club fairs and mouthwatering barbecues with much anticipation. The myriad range of clubs and societies that caters to the diversity of students and interest groups in university is just amazing.

Exploring the many facets of university life and meeting other students from differing backgrounds is especially rewarding for me as I learn and understand more about lives in other parts of the world.

Just like in school, university is what you make it to be. It can be a place for you to continue the interests you’ve developed so far, or at the same time, be a field of new discoveries. It is for you to embrace the big world outside school, a place to learn and share, and a place for you to pursue your dreams further and beyond. Most importantly, this is the time for you to grow responsibly, not forgetting ever, the sacrifices made by your parents, and the goodwill of your teachers and school. It is with much sentiment that I encourage you all to earnestly explore your interests, be always appreciative of all your experiences and be open to all of life’s surprises. As the saying goes, ‘there’s always a silver lining in every cloud’… so, girls, let your adventure begin too!

I am passionate about. I am most excited to meet new people and make new memories. St Mary’s taught me never to let fear or unfamiliarity stand in the way of making the most of opportunities – when you do what you fear most, you can do anything. I learnt this too late at school and so I didn’t grab every opportunity I could.

My aim for life after school is to do as much as I can and extend myself by taking every opportunity that comes my way. I’d rather say I failed at something than say I didn’t try it at all and be left feeling regretful.

University is so exciting and fast-paced. I am already playing social sport, have joined numerous clubs and societies, caught the bus into the city during my three hour breaks, and I’ve been to almost every café and library on campus. I’ve even taken a criminology unit this semester to nurture my love for the television show Criminal Minds. The freedom that comes with a university environment is certainly something I’m enjoying so much. Hopefully, during the next years, I have the time of my life. with assessment due dates and pre-lecture readings, not to mention attending the huge number of Fresher events and activities.

This time last year, I couldn’t imagine myself going to university, and it is still quite surreal. Some days, I saw Year 12 as an insurmountable challenge and I could not imagine making it to the other side. But it is possible and, trust me, all of you can do it. You might even surprise yourself at how well you do.

To the current Year 12s, I hope that you work hard, but also enjoy the year ahead. Don’t stress too much! You have a great support network of friends, family and teachers who are more than willing to help you, so take advantage of it.

To all the St Mary’s girls, I wish you well in your future studies. I hope that after school, you won’t hesitate to get out there and experience everything that this wide world has to offer.

Destinations of the Class of 2014

11

400 CLUB AND HIGH FLYERS 400 CLUB TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE 400 CLUB, STUDENTS REQUIRE AN ATAR OF OVER 96.7. THIS YEAR WE ARE PLEASED TO WELCOME 23 NEW MEMBERS.

Jill Brouwer General Exhibition Certificate of Distinction Geography, Certificate of Commendation University of Western Australia Bachelor of Philosophy (Marine Science and Physics) The Vice Chancellor’s Merit Scholarship from University of Western Australia Chelsea Davis University of Western Australia Bachelor of Arts (Music and Music Specialist) Awarded the Caltex Best All Rounder Award Kimberley Domleo University of Western Australia Bachelor of Commerce (Business Law and French) 12

Julia Evans Certificate of Commendation University of Bristol Cellular and Molecular Medicine

Maya Koentgen University of NSW Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) Bachelor of Science (Molecular Biology)

Sarah Inglis Murdoch University Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Business Awarded the Academic Excellence Award at Murdoch University

Elle Leask Certificate of Commendation University of Western Australia Bachelor of Science (Anatomy and Human Biology, and Neuroscience)

Hannah Izett Curtin University Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) Awarded the Curtin Excellence Award Alessandra Kerr University of Melbourne Bachelor of Arts (Psychology with a Diploma in languages)

Destinations of the Class of 2014

Cassandra Lee Special General Exhibition Monash University Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery Scholarship for Excellence from Monash University Cindy Liang University of Western Australia Bachelor of Commerce (Business Law)

Tessa Lim Certificate of Commendation University of Western Australia Bachelor of Arts (Psychological Science and Psychology in Society) Abigail Luke Certificate of Distinction for English and Certificate of Commendation University of New South Wales Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctorate of Medicine Aaryn Ly Curtin University Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy) Curtin Excellence Scholarship

Above: The Reverend Geraldine Nixon with the Class of 2014 at the Valedictory Below: Class of 2014 students enjoying the last day of school

HIGH FLYERS HIGH FLYERS ARE STUDENTS WHO RECEIVED AN AWARD FROM THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM AND STANDARDS AUTHORITY OR ACHIEVED A SCORE VERY CLOSE TO 400. THIS YEAR WE CONGRATULATE FOUR STUDENTS.

Zoe Clayton Central Institute of Technology Certificate IV in Residential Drafting Westscheme Award for Excellence in Vocational Education and Training

Megan Neo Monash University Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery (Honours) Lisa Nivbrant University of Western Australia Bachelor of Science Toni Muller Gap year

Aideen Myles Certificate of Commendation Murdoch University Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Business Awarded the Academic Excellence Award at Murdoch University

Stephanie Renshaw Certificate of Distinction English and Certificate of Commendation Curtin University Bachelor of Arts (Screen Arts) Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing & Advertising) Curtin Excellence Scholarship and Principal’s Recommendation Award Christine Seet University of Western Australia Bachelor of Arts (Politics, International Relations and Economics) Assured pathway to Law

Madeleine McKenzie University of Western Australia Bachelor of Science Sally-Anne Ting University of Melbourne Bachelor of Science

Payal Shah University of Western Australia Bachelor of Science (Physiology and Economics) Brenna Varcoe Certificate of Commendation University of Western Australia Bachelor of Arts (Law and Society, and Italian)

Kriti Sharma General Exhibition, Certificate of Commendation University of Western Australia Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science) Assured pathway to Medicine and Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship at the University of Western Australia and Schools Curriculum Standards Authority Award Frances White University of Queensland Bachelor of Arts (Exercise and Nutrition Science)

Destinations of the Class of 2014

13

RHODES TO SUCCESS TWO OF ST MARY’S’ FINEST GRADUATES ARE MAKING ADVANCES IN THEIR CHOSEN CAREERS, THANKS TO THE OPPORTUNITIES PRESENTED TO THEM BY THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD.

Late last year, Amy Steinepreis (’08) was announced as Western Australia’s Rhodes Scholar for 2015. She is the second Old Girl to achieve this honour. Dr Marina Hughes (Barbour ’83) was awarded the scholarship in 1989.

The Rhodes is the oldest and one of the most prestigious international graduate scholarship programmes in the world. It provides transformative opportunities for exceptional individuals.

Miss Steinepreis will depart for Oxford in September, where she plans to complete a Master of Studies, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in Modern Languages. The 23-year-old is fluent in French and Italian, and has a working understanding of Russian, Spanish and Latin.

“I think Oxford is really important for me because it has such outstanding language facilities,” she said.

Dr Hughes attended St Mary’s from 1979, and was Head Girl in 1983. The former boarder from Boyup Brook is now a Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London.

“From the boarding house, how did I get to where I am now?” Dr Hughes mused while speaking at the Speech Night ceremony at St Mary’s in December last year.

Above: Dr Marina Hughes (Barbour ’83)

“You have to acknowledge your own individual blend of experiences and skills.

Use every opportunity to try new things to find what you’re good at.”

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Rhodes to Success

“It’s about understanding yourself. You have to acknowledge your own individual blend of experiences and skills. Use every opportunity to try new things to find what you’re good at.

“It may take some years, more education and several jobs to find your thing. It may be artistic, or managerial; it may be sporting, medical, or linguistic. Once you’re working towards something that you’re passionate about, you’ll find you have the energy and drive to be successful.”

Dr Hughes studied a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Western Australia, before being awarded a prestigious Rhodes scholarship.

She completed a DPhil in Clinical Medicine at Oxford University, doing work involved in paediatrics and vaccines. Since then, Dr Hughes has forged an outstanding medical career in Melbourne and then in London, specialising in paediatrics and cardiology. As well as succeeding professionally, Dr Hughes has been busy as a wife and a mother to three children.

She now shares a common bond with Miss Steinepreis.

“We’ve swapped notes already,” Dr Hughes laughed.

The Rhodes is the oldest and one of the most prestigious international graduate scholarship programmes in the world. It provides transformative opportunities for exceptional individuals.

“Amy and I have both been honoured with an enormous gift. With the excitement, challenges and the opportunities of this gift, comes a huge responsibility.

“One of the key things about the Rhodes scholarship and I think one of the most important rules of our whole humanity - is we have to appreciate any gift and any good fortune that we have.

“Amy and I are very different people, with completely different specific skills, talents and interests – Amy in the arts and languages, and me in the science and medical world. But we do have a common sense of community responsibility, and we do have a common duty to give back, somehow.”

It’s a notion Miss Steinepreis understands well. She was involved in a number of fundraising initiatives at UWA, including support for the Harry Perkins Institute as a cyclist and ambassador for the Ride to Conquer Cancer.

She also founded the WACE Workshops programme to support cancer research.

It was at UWA that Miss Steinepreis studied a Bachelor of Arts on a Fogarty Scholarship, earning First Class Joint Honours in English and Italian, and Cognate Honours in French. During her undergraduate studies, she was the recipient of UWA’s J A Wood Prize for most outstanding graduand and was Valedictorian at her graduation.

Such accolades are not foreign to Miss Steinepreis. The proud Survivor of St Mary’s was Dux of the Class of 2008, and Debating Prefect. She was a great contributor to school life through tennis, dance, drama, debating, chorale, HOPE and Future Problem Solving. She went on to achieve a perfect score in her TEE (now WACE) and a General Exhibition, placing her among the top 40 students in the state.

She recently completed her Master of International Journalism at UWA. As part of her studies, she interned at the Federal Parliamentary Press Gallery in Canberra with Channel 10, and at the Sydney headquarters of Sky News.

“Working in the Press Gallery during the recent spill motion against Tony Abbott was illuminating, and has fuelled my interest in political journalism,” she said.

Oxford will not be the first international learning opportunity Miss Steinepreis has pursued. She spent her final year of study at the Università per Stranieri in Italy, through one of UWA’s overseas learning programmes.

Above: Amy Steinepreis (’08)

She also represented UWA at a number of leadership dialogues and presented literature papers at conferences in Canada, England, Italy, the United States and Australia.

Her career aspirations lie in Foreign Service, particularly cultural diplomacy and journalism, and championing the arts.

“I am very excited about what lies ahead,” she said.

“It was serendipitous to meet Marina. We hail from different disciplines of study, but I feel fortunate to know an Old Girl who has gone on from the Rhodes to lead a brilliant and fulfilling career.”

Rhodes to Success

15

ACHIEVEMENTS

UN YOUTH VOICE COMPETITION Wini Taylor-Williams, Year 8, was a state finalist in the junior division of the 2014 UN Youth Voice competition for students in Years 7-10. This public speaking competition enables students to discuss pressing global issues, but also requires them to formulate innovative solutions to these problems, lobby for their consideration and defend their validity. Wini has now been selected to represent Western Australia at the UN Youth Voice national finals in Sydney in April.

Clockwise from top left: Maddy Bougher, Jessica Cant, Ashleigh Glover, Arshya Kulkarni, Hannah Jackson and Angela Hewitt

WRITE-A-BOOK-IN-A-DAY COMPETITION A team of Year 9 students received a Commendation for their entry in the 2014 Write-a-Book-in-a-Day Competition. The team included Maddy Bougher, Jessica Cant, Ashleigh Glover, Angela Hewitt, Hannah Jackson and Arshya Kulkarni.

l-r: Amelia Hurst and Marize Smith

TIM WINTON AWARDS Congratulations to Amelia Hurst, Year 10, who received the first place trophy in her section of the 2014 Tim Winton Awards for her story, Matches. Marize Smith, Year 11, received a Highly Commended certificate for being placed in the Top Ten finalists for her story, Squealer.

l-r: Isobel Crabb, Alexa Schneider and Dayle Waddingham

DOROTHEA MACKELLAR POETRY AWARDS Year 10 students Isobel Crabb, Alexa Schneider and Dayle Waddingham received Highly Commended certificates in the 2014 Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards. Well done, girls.

AUSTRALIAN MATHEMATICS COMPETITION 2014 RESULTS In 2014, 555 St Mary’s girls from Years 3 - 12 sat the 37th annual Australian Mathematics Competition.

Notably, students Emma Bond and Fiona Nguyen, earned prize awards. These awards were presented to the top 0.3 per cent of students within their year group. Emma and Fiona sat the competition in Year 7. Both girls received their prizes at an awards ceremony held at Perth Modern School on Friday 14 November 2014. Congratulations, Emma and Fiona. l-r: Emma Bond and Fiona Nguyen

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Senior School News

The girls also attended a special enrichment workshop for gifted young mathematicians. A special mention must go to current Year 9 student, Sarah Samnakay, who was also invited to participate in the workshop.

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS ST MARY’S HAS BEEN AWARDED THE PRESTIGIOUS INDEPENDENT GIRLS’ SCHOOLS’ SPORTS ASSOCIATION’S (IGSSA) CHAMPION SCHOOL IN SPORT TROPHY FOR 2014. OUR SCHOOL WAS THE INAUGURAL WINNER OF THE TROPHY, WHICH IS AWARDED TO THE SCHOOL THAT HAS PLACED HIGHEST ACROSS ALL IGSSA SPORTS PLAYED DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR.

Notably, our netball team placed first for the sixteenth consecutive year. Our volleyball, cross country, soccer, and basketball teams all claimed top honours too. Our tennis and athletics teams were second overall, while our softball girls put in a great effort to place third.

Coming in fifth in their respective competitions were the hockey and water polo teams, while our swimmers were sixth overall.

These tremendous results are a source of great satisfaction for the Physical Education department, and show that St Mary’s is on track in teaching our girls strong skills through a quality physical education programme.

The St Mary’s community congratulates players across all IGSSA sports. In addition, the dedication of staff, coaches and students is much appreciated, and their hard work is reflected in the great results achieved in 2014 and, hopefully, in 2015.

IGSSA co-ordinator, Louise Carson, presented the trophy to 2014 Sport Prefect, Megan McKay, and Head of PE, Jennifer Raphael, in December.

ROBIN ANDERSON FILM AWARDS 2014 graduating student, Shendell Hay, was selected as a finalist for the Robin Anderson Film Awards.

Her short film Misconception was officially screened at Dendy Cinemas in Circular Quay on 17 November, with Shendell and her parents flying over to Sydney to view it on the big screen. This is an amazing achievement in itself, but such was the quality of Shendell’s film that she was awarded Best Editing and Best Senior Fiction for her work.

Above (l-r): Lynne Thomson (Principal), with Megan McKay (Sport Prefect), and Jennifer Raphael (Head of Physical Education)

LITTLE BIG SHOTS – FINALIST (INTERNATIONAL FILM COMPETITION 2015) Congratulations to Georgia Fitzroy (Class of 2014) for being selected as a finalist in the Little Big Shots international film competition. Georgia’s surreal and visually engaging film, Boddah, will be screened at Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) in Federation Square in Melbourne in the coming months.

This is a wonderful achievement and very exciting news for her.

MEDIA PERSPECTIVES Congratulations to Shendell Hay (2014) and Katherine Carey and Stephanie Renshaw (both 2014) whose WACE Media productions, Misconception and Dreamer have been shortlisted for the Media Perspectives on March 17. Media Perspectives is designed to showcase the top performing practical students in the WACE Media examination. Both films were very successful and have attracted much attention in many national film competitions and festivals.

Senior School News

17

MEET OUR HEAD NOW LET ME ASK YOU: IN THIS SKY ABOVE, HAVE YOU EVER SEEN AN ELEPHANT FLY?

When I began my opening assembly speech with this question, who knows what the audience was thinking?

Perhaps: “No Sarah, I have definitely not seen an elephant fly.”

But, let’s be serious. Who doesn’t like the quiet, shy, kind, awesome, flying elephant, Dumbo?

It was with Dumbo that I began my Head Girl journey.

Something clicked in my mind about the little guy.

His wonderment and ability to wander were character traits I could relate to, as well as being ones relevant to share with others.

So from Dumbo, Wonderful Wanderful began…

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Senior School News

GIRL, SARAH COOPES WONDERFUL… Did you know that between you and every other person in the entire world, only 0.06 per cent of your DNA is different? What makes you unique? The message to take from this is be the full extent of your 0.06 per cent.

This knowledge gave me a whole new perspective on life, and I figured, what better character to encourage everyone to be the full extent of their 0.06 per cent than Dumbo.

He took his enormous ears, which he used to see as flawed, and learned to embrace them - he learnt to fly with them!

WANDERFUL… To wander means to walk or move in an aimless way. For me, it means to step off your safe path along the journey, take the road less travelled, step out of your comfort zone. Be a little daring and take a risk, just like Dumbo.

Heck, that little guy even jumped off a building! But look where he is now – he can fly.

Where will your journey take you?

So, little elephants, let us fly, soar, swoop, weave… and together, create Wonderful and Wanderful.

Just like his best friend, Timothy Q. Mouse, said to him: “Dumbo, the very things that held ya’ down, are gonna carry you up, and up, and up!”

Never forget this. Our 0.06 per cent was never meant to hold us down!

Senior School News

19

OVERSEAS TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS WORLD CHALLENGE, LAOS, DECEMBER 2014 WERE YOU NERVOUS THE FIRST TIME YOU TRAVELLED OVERSEAS? WHERE DID YOU GO? WHO DID YOU TRAVEL WITH?

Our World Challenge expedition in December 2014 was an opportunity for 32 students from St Mary’s to become more confident to explore the world safely with friends.

Destination, Laos, one of the ten poorest countries in the world and tagged as the world’s most bombed country.

Over two billion tons of bombs were dropped in Laos during the Vietnam War. Upon arriving in the capital city, Vientiane, students had to convert Australian dollars into the local currency, Laos kip, an exchange rate of about 1:8000. They then needed to determine the price of sim cards, telephones, transport and accommodation, and select restaurants for each meal. These were some of the logistics that needed to be solved by students each day. Rather daunting if you have never done this on your own before.

As with all new challenges our students were quick to adapt to this unique experience in Laos.

We travelled to Vang Vieng and then to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang. This city is famous for its numerous Buddhist temples and monasteries.

Every morning, hundreds of monks walk through the streets collecting alms. Our students woke one morning at 6am and gave food to a group of passing monks who then sang a mantra for our safe travels in Laos. What a breathtaking sight and blessed experience.

The feature of a World Challenge trip that excites our students is the project phase. Each team made their way to a small rural village for a week of service. Teaching young students in classrooms, swinging pick axes to dig trenches for water pipes, carrying bags of rocks and sand for concreting a water tank, were just some of the projects. What we left behind was an improved access to water for 200 people who were sharing one communal water tank for cleaning and cooking.

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Senior School News

The love and happiness shared by our students with the children of this village demonstrated the joy of giving. I would think our students now have a better understanding of the importance of serving others.

The rest of our expedition involved trekking and visiting some local tourist sites. yy The ‘Free the Bears’ sanctuary, started by Mary Hutton from Perth. Her aim is to protect, preserve and enrich the lives of bears around the world so as to prevent their decline. What courage she has shown to commence this project abroad. yy The Butterfly Park near Kuang Si waterfall, operated by a Dutch couple with the mission to create a research centre for studying butterflies and host plants, and preserving the local Laos environment.

This is a place our students may wish to complete volunteer work in their future if they choose to become an entomologist or botanist. yy The COPE visitor centre in Vientiane, a centre that provides support to UXO (unordained explosives) survivors, who need rehabilitation or orthotic and prosthetic devices. yy Teaching English to local Laotians at Big Brother Mouse, an organisation that wishes to encourage Laotian children to read for pleasure, by publishing books. Our students donated a book party for the village of our project phase. They selected books to be taken to the village school. Staff from Big Brother Mouse will spend a day training the teachers how to use these books in the classroom.

As our students decide upon their future career paths, this World Challenge expedition may have been the flame to ignite their desire to find a way to serve those who are less fortunate.

LIGHTS. CAMERA. ACHIEVEMENT. IN 2013, THE MEDIA DEPARTMENT EMBARKED ON AN EXCITING JOURNEY, WITH THE OPENING OF THE RON FARRIS MEDIA STUDIES CENTRE.

From these new beginnings, fantastic opportunities grew. In the past two years, students have achieved great things, earning numerous awards and inclusions in film festivals and photography exhibitions.

Head of Media, Steve McLeod, said the development of the facility had certainly proven fruitful.

“Our girls continue to demonstrate that they are highly-capable filmmakers,” Mr McLeod said. “In our first year in the new centre, we had the top three WACE students in the state.”

The media studies centre boasts two large, purpose-built classrooms, as well as three smaller editing suites and a green screen room.

“These spaces are ideal to view and analyse productions, and have the girls go off and produce their own work,” Mr McLeod said.

Above: Media students

“Having a new space inspires us as teachers, and definitely affects the students too. We want the girls to be critical, creative thinkers. If they can be critical about what they see in the media, and then be creative in the way that they apply what they’ve learnt, that’s a great thing.”

There are 25 DSLR cameras with video capabilities and 25 Panasonic video cameras available to students. The girls can also utilise the centre’s vast equipment store, which includes jib arm cranes, dolly tracking systems, and steady cams.

Students work on dual screens to produce their work using Adobe Premiere Pro editing software.

“It’s all industry-standard. We try to simulate that professional working environment, and I think those kinds of things really motivate the girls,” Mr McLeod said.

The popularity of the subject has increased exponentially. The school has added more media classes to the timetable to accommodate demand. Almost 40 WACE students are enrolled in the Media Production and Analysis course this year.

“We give the girls a taste of media studies in the lower school, and it’s great to then see the numbers increase as girls elect to study media right up to Year 12.”

Student work is on display within the centre year-round.

In addition to this, students are selected to exhibit their work at Media Night.

Media Night showcases work from students in Years 8 - 12. From advertisements to music videos to experimental film, the evening is always a highlight on the school’s arts calendar.

This year, it will be held on Friday 13 November in the Lady Wardle Performing Arts Centre.

“It gets better every year; the girls always push that benchmark higher,” Mr McLeod said.

“I think things like our Media Camp for senior students have made a huge difference to the standard of work being produced too. We have industry professionals to come in to talk to the girls so that they can see a career is possible in media if that’s the path they wish to choose.

“We’ve got all these things going on to keep the girls interested so that they’re always looking at things in a new way. Regardless of whether the girls go into a career in media, they develop strong communications skill, they better understand culture and they can express themselves clearly and creatively.”

“We want the girls to be critical, creative thinkers.

If they can be critical about what they see in the media, and then be creative in the way that they apply what they’ve learnt, that’s a great thing.”

Senior School News

21

Above (l-r): Kathleen Dwyer, Natalie Szelid, Jamie Sabavala, Hannah Gulev and Isabelle Kris

Above (l-r): Isobel Harper, Kate Blakers, Neve Ralston and Penny Laufmann

YEAR 7 CAMP 2015 ON THE MORNING OF TUESDAY 17 FEBRUARY ALL OF YEAR 7 DEPARTED FOR CAMP. WE WERE HEADED TO METRICUP VIA MANDURAH, WHERE WE WERE TREATED TO A DOLPHINSPOTTING CRUISE. UNFORTUNATELY, WE DIDN’T SEE ANY DOLPHINS BUT IT WAS STILL LOTS OF FUN. AFTER A QUICK LUNCH ON THE FORESHORE WE CONTINUED OUR TREK TO METRICUP. WE HAD A BIT OF TIME TO SET UP AND THEN WE SPLIT INTO OUR GROUPS AND HEADED OFF FOR OUR FIRST ACTIVITY. MY GROUP STARTED THE CAMP WITH AN ART SESSION WITH REBECCA COOL, WHERE WE MADE SOME AMAZING PAPER DOLLS. WE ALL LET OUR INNER ARTISTS OUT AND CREATED LOTS OF FUNKY AND VERY COLOURFUL DOLLS.

Above (l-r): Philippa Chitty, Molly Addis and Casey Lane

After our first dinner we headed out to the eco-tents to have a very informal astronomy session. Although it was too cloudy to go stargazing, the flying beetles looked like shooting stars.

The next day we all headed out to the dam to build rafts. We were faced with ropes, barrels and logs which we used to design and build a raft. After a lot of trial and error, it was finally time for the test. Some very interestingly designed rafts were presented - some being more successful than others. Afterwards we got some time to play in the mud and have some competitions out on the water.

After cleaning ourselves up we headed out to test our teamwork. We had an ultimate relay, including saving teddy bears from toxic waste, pulling apart and fixing a car and getting across a crocodile-infested river. We really had to work as a team and it was a great bonding experience.

On day two we woke up bright and early and lathered on sun cream, ready for our trip to the beach. We had a sandcastle competition and some brave girls went swimming despite it being chilly. We then went to test our teamwork once again at the maze in Yallingup. We had to work together to get to the checkpoints as fast as possible. Just to exhaust us even more we had theatre sports when we returned.

I spent the last night in the eco-tents. It felt amazing to get out in the open and be able to explore. It was a great way to get to know people and although we were all 22

Senior School News

Above (l-r): Vanessa Bryan, Chelsea Tapscott, Rebecca Cool, Jasmine Roberts, Jess Mutter, Alyssa Wheeler, Alyssa Sadgrove, Chelsea Ryan and Natalie Szelid

exhausted we still had enough energy to share stories.

Unfortunately, we did have to go to sleep because we had an early morning ahead of us.

On Friday morning we started our journey home. Camp was a great bonding experience. To sum it up in one word – amazing! I made lots of new friends and I think it was a great way to start the year.

Chelsea Tapscott Year 7 Student

YEAR 7 PROFILES FOUR OF OUR YEAR 7 STUDENTS DESCRIBE THEIR EXPERIENCES AT ST MARY’S EARLY IN 2015

EMILY NESS Moving from a small junior school to a big school is a huge change. Some people might be thrilled because they’re finally part of a society, excited for a locker, or just looking forward to a big change in the canteen menu! But, inside, we’re scared - all of us! Which is something new for most of us, fear. This fear is different from being just nervous at a swimming or athletics carnival, or scared about the dark gloomy figures that seem to be moving around in the garden outside your room at night (which are just trees by the way). This is a mixture of a bunch of things, one of which is mystery.

Not knowing what will happen next might be recognised as thrill, or adventure for some people, but this is not a book. Its mostly concerned with being one of the ingredients of the recipe that is fear.

Next, coming from a small pond of girls and leaping into a whole new and much bigger pool is very hard.

Not being used to the murky waters or the different breed of plants takes some time to get used to.

You do feel small, as there are so many kids in this pond that it can cause stress (stress - which is also wrapped up in this fearsome recipe). With new homework, more difficult and advanced stuff can sometimes be hard to stick in your head.

Taking up a new hobby is a terrific way to keep your mind off the pressure of the new school and to keep your mind open to take in new information, and it is at this point that the fear dies down a bit and you can finally breathe in the fresh air, and feel welcome in your new home.

So take me. I’m from West Leederville. But I’m here to tell you that in Year 7 at St Mary’s fear is not a factor.

Each day is just one big learning journey that is full of fun, excitement and interesting things to see, do and learn from. So hang on to your hats because you are in for the thrill ride of your life!

MATHILDA PERCY My name is Mathilda and I live on a cattle station in the Gascoyne region of WA. The closest country town is Carnarvon. I love art and horse riding – they are two of my favourite things to do at home. This year I started boarding school which is a big jump for me since I had always previously been home-schooled. At the beginning of term 1, I was so scared because everything was so new and different. Now everything is falling into place and is getting easier. I also have a lot of new friends.

HAYLEY THOMPSON

MOLLY ADDIS

Hello, my name is Hayley, and I’m new to St Mary’s this year.

I commenced my new journey with so many butterflies, but also excitement. Words can’t describe my journey at school so far. The weeks have flown by and, already, I have been to early morning swimming, surfing, interhouse dance, gymnastics, swimming and cross country.

In some ways, being a boarder is like being able to have a sleepover with your friends every night. That sounds really great, doesn’t it! Another really positive aspect of boarding life is the food. It is always fancy, tasty and looks great. There’s dessert every night. Our chef, Eric, makes the smoothest, tastiest ice-cream ever (sorry Mum)!

During school, I have grown fish and made solarpowered cars, and made friends who could possibly be my supportive group for many years to come. With some girls, I can’t stop laughing and with others girls, I can’t stop talking! Everyone is really nice.

There are lots of other benefits of being a boarder at St Mary’s. Although there is always homework to do, we don’t need to worry about it too much because we have really helpful tutors available to help us. We can see them during Prep, which is the time we get to do homework in the evening. Prep lasts two hours, but it goes quickly. We get a ten-minute break to get fresh air and a drink.

On top of all of those things, I went to Metricup for Year 7 Camp. It’s something I will never forget. It has helped me forge lifelong friendships.

All of these opportunities have come with new memories and life lessons that I will remember for a long time. I can’t wait for new chances and opportunities to appear in my journey here at St Mary’s.

At the moment, life is like an unread book, and I can certainly say my journey at St Mary’s will fill those empty pages with happy memories.

Our rooms are nice and we can decorate them so they feel like home. We have to make our beds every morning and keep our rooms tidy, but there are rewards if we do this well. Our mattresses are new and they are really comfy because they have a pillow top.

Overall, being a boarder is pretty good. It is like a second home and the other girls are like a second family.

Senior School News

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NEW BEGINNINGS

FOR OUR COUNTRY GIRLS COMING TO BOARDING SCHOOL CAN BE A DAUNTING PROSPECT FOR MANY YOUNG GIRLS. TO MAKE THE TRANSITION EASIER WE CREATED ‘A LOOK INSIDE’ DAY WHERE THE GIRLS CAN VISIT THE SCHOOL BEFORE THEY ARRIVE AS BOARDERS.

In November 2014, girls from across the state in Years 4, 5 and 6 attended an action-packed day in the Junior School to get a ‘peep inside’ on what life at St Mary’s is like.

Margaret Field Hall in the Junior School was the perfect meeting place as students and parents mingled with others from the country, whilst enjoying a scrumptious morning tea.

Our Principal, Mrs Thomson, welcomed the girls to St Mary’s and Head of Junior School, Mrs Adams, explained the structure of the day.

One group of girls worked with Junior School Art teacher, Mrs McNeil. The girls were encouraged to design, make and appraise their own unique sculpture made of wire. These intricate art pieces were both challenging and rewarding to make. The girls commented that they were keen to display their work back at home on the Christmas tree.

Meanwhile, the other group of girls were busy creating lava lamps in Science with Dean of Teaching and Learning in the Senior School, Mrs Tyson.

24

Senior School News

After the active morning, our visitors made their way to the boarding house to meet new leaders of the school and experience the delicious food in the boarding house.

Several girls remarked on how fantastic the food was and were amazed when reassured that this was just the normal food they were served.

The afternoon programme saw the girls fully entertained by the Lower School Production of ‘Snow White’ put on by our Year 7, 8 and 9 students. Our new students were able to experience a St Mary’s drama production in the Lady Wardle Performing Arts Centre for the first time. The girls were extremely excited to receive a show bag of goodies to take home at the end of the day. Some of the treats included a helpful times tables chart, a St Mary’s pen and best of all, a cuddly new St Mary’s teddy to pop on their bed when they got home.

Parents, who had enjoyed a day out shopping in the city, returned to St Mary’s in the afternoon to pick up their daughters, who were bursting with tales of new adventures in their new school.

LEARNING TO LEAD WITH NO BOYS AT ST MARY’S WE GIVE OUR GIRLS AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE LEADERS. IN THE JUNIOR SCHOOL WE ELECT 25 CAPTAINS TO TAKE ON RESPONSIBILITIES TO BETTER DEVELOP THEIR LEADERSHIP SKILLS.

We asked five of our 2015 Captains how they were enjoying their roles so far…

Laura Collins says:

“I enjoy speaking in Chapel.

I don’t enjoy missing out on Recess though.”

Kate Spencer says:

“I like reading in front of the crowd.

I used to feel scared going Gabrielle Waller on stage but now I feel says: more confident.”

“It’s exciting to be a leader to your friends and to the younger girls.”

Stephanie Lovi says:

Kaitlyn Phillips says:

“Some of what I do is tricky, but I love to help others.”

“I want to be a Head Girl one day so I think being a Chapel Captain will help me get there.”

OUR TRIP TO ROTTNEST

BY AMÉLIE CAPORN

Above: Author Norman Jorgensen reading to Year 6 students at the Rottnest Anglican Chapel

Above (l-r): Sarah Bond, Calista Goh and Emily Letch-Avenell

On Monday 23 February the three Year 6 classes of St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School made their way to Hillarys Boat Harbour to spend four days on the amazing island, Rottnest.

We had a visit from the talented author of our class book, Jack’s Island, Norman Jorgensen. Whilst visiting, Norman took us to some of the locations we had read about in his book.

As the parents said their goodbyes we excitedly boarded the boat. Upon arriving we settled into what would be our new homes for the next four days. We were lucky enough to bunk with our closest friends and teachers at Governor’s Circle, Kingstown Barracks.

The food was a highlight! We enjoyed delicious meals from our lovely cook, Eddie. Some of his delights included a roast dinner, ham rolls, baked beans with eggs, and jelly for dessert.

Whilst at Rottnest we went to the movies, enjoyed art activities and had plenty of swims at the Basin. The ocean was filled with fish and a stingray to our teachers’ delight.

Rottnest was a great experience and a brilliant opportunity to get to know the new girls We would all like to thank all the staff for organising and running such a fantastic camp.

JUNIOR school News

25

NEW BEGINNINGS IN ROBOTICS WE BELIEVE IT IS IMPORTANT TO CHALLENGE GIRLS WITH NEW CONCEPTS AND IDEAS IN ALL LEARNING AREAS. A GROUP OF EARLY YEARS GIRLS HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED TO BEE BOT ROBOTICS. MRS ANDREA DINGLEY AND MRS SUE MARTIN WORKED WITH THE GIRLS FOR SEVERAL SESSIONS TO EXPLORE THE WORLD OF ROBOTICS.

Above: Audrey Tan and Nicole Pile

The girls began their exploration by investigating the many different types of robots and what makes it a robot before being introduced to the Bee Bot robot.

The girls learnt how to programme it to move. They all found it rather challenging to make the robot draw a square but once they had mastered this they were challenged to make the robot move through a tunnel or around a rock. This was not as easy as it seemed but it felt great when they were successful.

After the first session the girls were asked to share their thoughts…

embrace their inner hacker – by taking charge of the different technologies we use every day to create solutions and overcome obstacles.

Students discovered how technology is created through open-ended projects, utilising the cutting edge Raspberry Pi computer. Mark ran a range of interesting and exciting activities to teach a combination of outcomes from separate strands of the world-leading Cambridgeshire Syllabus.

“I liked (the workshop) because we kept doing harder and harder things and it took longer and longer. I loved it,” said Emma.

“I wished ( the session) could last forever,” said Clara.

“I wanted to keep him (the robot) and take him home with me to make him do more things,” said Samantha.

A group of our older girls were invited to attend a series of sessions to work with Mrs Dencker Morrison and Mark Calleja, a visiting ICT teacher from Cambridge, United Kingdom. HackLab is a creative learning environment where students are encouraged to Above (l-r): Samantha Attrams, Mikayla Spaseski, Clara Aviso with Mrs Dingley.

26

JUNIOR school News

Above: Kindy girls in touch with nature

Above: Kindy girls at play

Above: Outdoor activity with the Pre-primary girls

GIRLS, GIRLS EVERYWHERE THIS YEAR, ST MARY’S HAS RETURNED TO BEING AN ALL-GIRLS SCHOOL.

Previously, the school accepted boys for enrolment in Kindergarten and Pre-primary classes. However, the decision was made to accept female enrolments only from 2015.

The decision was made for a number of reasons, all of which relate to creating an environment girls can thrive in.

Head of Junior School, Helen Adams, knows first-hand the benefits of single-sex education.

“Girls’ educational needs are different from boys, and therefore we are now able to better create a programme that caters directly to their specific needs,” Mrs Adams said.

“Many girls missed out on places in Kindergarten due to the enrolment of boys who wanted a place, and then had to wait until to join us in either Year 1, Year 4 or Year 6.”

St Mary’s was established in 1921 in West Perth. When the school moved from West Perth to Karrinyup in 1970, it was open to girls only. Boys were then re-introduced to the school with the opening of the first Peter Arney Centre for Early Learning in 1997.

Mrs Adams spoke of what could be considered the greatest benefit of the change.

“With no boys, we are giving the girls the opportunity to be leaders, whether that is in the classroom or in the playground. They take these invaluable leadership skills into their bright futures.”

JUNIOR school News

27

OUT

and

ABOUT

q GRANDES BELLES

On Saturday 21 March, St Mary’s held a Grandes Belles High Tea on campus and welcomed over 80 mothers of Old Girls and Year 12 students to Margaret Field Hall. St Mary’s chef, Eric Barlette, catered the afternoon.

We were fortunate to have Mrs Margaret Field, Head of the Junior School from 1969 to 1993, join us for the afternoon.

q HIGH FLYERS AND 400 CLUB MORNING TEA

Members of the Class of 2014, as well as their parents and special guests, returned to St Mary’s on Wednesday 4 February for the 400 Club and High Flyers Assembly. Twenty-four graduates joined the prestigious 400 Club, while four girls became High Flyers. We wish them all the best in their lives after St Mary’s.

Above: Margaret Field, Lynne Thomson and Reverend Joyce Polson

Above (l-r): 2014 graduates Zoe Clayton, Christine Seet, Kriti Sharma, Payal Shah and Alessandra Kerr

Above: Grandes Belles with Joan Karmelita Above: Tessa Lim (’14, Head Girl) with her mother, Khin Lim

Above: Aideen Myles, Brenna Varcoe and Stephanie Renshaw

28

Out and About

Above: Former Presidents of the Ladies’ Auxiliary Gail Wilton, Gay Hamilton-Prime and Elizabeth Price

q LUNCH AT METRICUP

q DINNER IN ESPERANCE

On Sunday 8 February, we welcomed past and current families of St Mary’s to join us for a long lunch at Metricup. Guests including past teachers Ian and Wendy Chidgey, enjoyed wine from our vineyard and delicious food created by Rob Tarran.

On Saturday 21 February, Lynne Thomson and Tina Campbell held a dinner at Esperance for present and future St Mary’s families and Old Girls.

Above (l-r): Patricia Filinski, Rosa McGillivray and Margaret Chamberlain

Above: Simone Stead, Darren Inkster, Lindsay Jones and Louise Stewart (Brown ’72)

KUALA LUMPUR 23 AUG SINGAPORE 22 AUG

MAY 8 May: Senior School Music Night 15 May : Open Morning JUNE 22 June: Dance Showcase

2015

EVENTS

CALENDAR

JAKARTA 21 AUG

DARWIN 23-25 JUL

JULY 27 July: Hale St Mary’s Career Expo AUGUST 6-8 August: S enior School Production – Jesus Christ Superstar 13-14 August: Hale Governors’ Concert 14 August: Open Morning 16 August: ‘Our Lady in Winter’ Service SEPTEMBER 2 September: September Concert 6-8 September: Art Exhibition 25 September: Boarders Reunion NOVEMBER 5-7 November: L ower School Production – A Little Princess 6 November: Open Morning 13 November: Media Night DECEMBER 2 December: Service of Lessons and Carols 4 December: Speech Night

BROOME 9-10 MAY

ON THE ROAD I N 2015

KARRATHA 1-2 AUG

If you would like to be notified or know someone who would like to be notified about when St Mary’s is coming your way, please email publicity@stmarys.wa.edu.au

MINGENEW 17-18 SEP

DOWERIN 26-27 AUG

NARROGIN 14 NOV

NEWDEGATE 2-3 SEP

ALBANY 13-14 NOV

ESPERANCE 16-17 OCT

2015 Events Calendar

29

IT BEGAN WITH A VISION “We are on the threshold of new responsibilities and new beginnings – a new school, a new building growing on our own soil.”

IN 1964, AN APPEAL TO MOVE ST MARY’S FROM THE CONFINES OF WEST PERTH TO THE EXPANSE AND LAND AT KARRINYUP WAS CHAMPIONED BY THE FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE OF THE TIME. THE APPEAL WAS LAUNCHED AT TWO FUNDRAISING DINNERS, BOTH HELD IN FEBRUARY 1964.

AROUND 170 PARENTS AND FRIENDS ATTENDED A DINNER FUNCTION IN THE SUBIACO CIVIC CENTRE, WHILE 176 OLD GIRLS SUPPORTED THE CAUSE AT A DINNER AT THE ADELPHI HOTEL. MRS THERESA MACDONALD, PRINCIPAL 1957 – 1965, GAVE ROUSING SPEECHES AT THESE EVENTS, EXPLAINING THE NEED FOR THE SCHOOL TO MOVE.

“We are at the limit of our facilities and resources on our home ground,” Mrs Macdonald said.

“The immense pressure of our need overwhelms all our natural reluctance to move. We must have space to grow, room to breathe, light and sunshine for full growth. Western Australia is on the move, and St Mary’s must be on the move too. We are on the threshold of new responsibilities and new beginnings – a new school, a new building growing on our own soil.”

Mrs Macdonald commenced as Principal in 1957. Along with her husband and Chairman of the Board, The Reverend Allan Macdonald, and a very supportive Board of Governors of the school, she led St Mary’s towards a “new forward-looking policy…. with the ultimate need for the school to move to a new site, where it would have more scope for further development both in numbers and in quality”.

The diminishing size and ability of the St Mary’s West Perth Church Parish to manage the school’s funding required the school to become a Diocesan School in 1962. This paved the way for the The Church of England Schools’ Trust to acquire the initial 25 acres of land at Karrinyup, on behalf of St Mary’s.

It was, however, stipulated that building needed to commence by the end of 1964. In addition, the lease on ‘Craigmore’, which housed the Junior School and provided grounds and facilities, was to expire at the end of 1964.

The urgency and energy required to find £50,000 within the year was not underestimated, but was met and exceeded by an extremely organised committee and incredibly generous St Mary’s community. A significant donation was made by past parents, Sir Thomas and Lady Wardle, to help the appeal.

Above Left: Mrs Theresa Macdonald, Principal, speaking at the first fundraising Appeal dinner, 1964 Left: Aerial view of St Mary’s new Karrinyup campus c1966

30

Archival Anecdotes

Above: First Fundraising Appeal Dinner, February 1964

1964 FUNDRAISING APPEAL COMMITTEE yy yy yy yy yy yy yy

President of the Appeal – Bishop C L Riley Campaign Chairman – Mr J M Lenton Campaign Chaplain – The Reverend P Atkins Key Gift Division Chairman – Mr F K Biggs Old Girls’ Division Chairman – Miss N Rogers Fathers’ Division Chairman – Mr F G Stone Arrangements Chairman – Mr P A Arney

The Foundation Stone was laid on 28 November 1965.

Therefore, 2015 marks 50 years since St Mary’s was established at the Karrinyup site.

Mr Peter Atkins, Chairman of the Board of Governors in 1965, was one of those present when the stone was laid.

He equated the appeal and fundraising venture to the famous Charles Dickens character, Oliver Twist. Unlike the pitiful treatment Oliver received when he asked for “more”, St Mary’s experienced the incredible generosity of its community through the initial appeal. A followon appeal committee continued with the fundraising work, assisted by the National Fundraising Council of Australia, to build the three-stage building development plan.

During stage one, Mrs Anne Symington took over the reins as Principal, 1965 – 1982. She had the difficult job of overseeing the completion of the school. The opening of the boarding house on 8 December 1970 marked the end of the appeal. In 1986, the boarding house was named after Mrs Symington.

Above: Stage one construction, image donated by Dianne King,, Head Girl, 1963

His message of support was: “The hopes of all who founded St Mary’s in 1921 have been more than realised, and the school has won a definite place for itself. May the future add even more success to its name, and may its pupils continue to show in the community the value of active Christian citizenship.”

At the first fundraising dinner, he toasted: “Today we are thinking ahead – thinking what the school can do. There are still people to contribute, as others have done, to the school’s work of sending forth a stream of good citizens.

To the school and its future.”

Stephanie Neille Archivist

Bishop Charles Lawrence Riley, Chairman of the initial Fundraising Committee and founder of the school in 1921, also gave enormous support for the move and the need for the school to be developed, without forgetting its traditions and foundations.

Right: Bishop C.L Riley, President of the Appeal, with Dianne King, Head Girl, 1963 Far right: Karrinyup campus Foundation Stone, laid November 1965

Archival Anecdotes

31

PARENTS’ SOCIET Y EACH YEAR AT ST MARY’S SEEMS TO START AT A CRACKING PACE AND 2015 WAS NO EXCEPTION.

The year started with our annual Parents’ Society Sundowner. Although there was a mighty crowd of around 800 parents and staff in attendance, the event was relaxed and thoroughly enjoyable. Thank you to everyone who made the effort to attend, catch up with friends and, hopefully, get to know a few new parents as well.

Later in the year, we will be hosting the Senior School Career Information Evening. Organisation is well underway, and it is shaping up to be a highly useful event. The evening gives students the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the options available to them, as well as insight into a range of career paths.

For those parents who are new to the school, the Parents’ Society is a volunteer committee run by the parents and guardians of both past and present students of St Mary’s. In co-operation with the Principal and Head of Junior School, committee members determine which projects will be funded through the voluntary parent levy. All parents are welcome to attend any of the scheduled meetings throughout the year, and contribute to the discussions and decisions of the committee.

I invite and encourage all parents to take an active interest in life at St Mary’s. We truly have a remarkable community.

On behalf of the Committee, I wish you all the very best for the remainder of 2015.

Tanya Hazelden Parents’ Society President

From top (l-r): Parents enjoying the Sundowner; Neale and Marie Bougher; Kim Banting and Hollye Wooding; Kapila and Disna Abeysuriya; and Necia Drazevic and Joan Karmelita

ST MARY’S AUXILIARY WE STARTED THE YEAR WITH GREAT ENTHUSIASM AT THE SENIOR SCHOOL INTERHOUSE SWIMMING CARNIVAL, WITH COFFEE AND CAKES. THERE HAS ALSO BEEN A GOOD RESPONSE TO OUR ONLINE VOLUNTEER FORM THIS YEAR, AND I THANK THOSE PARENTS WHO ARE WILLING TO HELP US AT VARIOUS EVENTS.

We have also conducted our Annual General Meeting. It is with sadness that I have had to resign my position as President. My family has been given the opportunity to live overseas for three years and so we will be leaving the school temporarily at the end of Term 1.

I would like to thank everyone within the Auxiliary who has helped me, as well as the many school staff who have been so helpful. I would particularly like to thank Daina De Mattia for her outstanding contribution to the Auxiliary over the past three years. We have been lucky to have such a dedicated parent on the team, and she deserves a well-earned rest.

I am, however, delighted to introduce our new Executive.

Angie Powell is our new incoming President, Matt Fong is our new incoming Junior Vice President, and Dawn Rudduck continues in her role as Senior Vice President.

The Auxiliary will continue its best efforts to support the school community with many different activities throughout this year, and I am sure they will continue the success of last year.

Tarryn Wright St Mary’s Auxiliary President

32

Parents’ Society and St Mary’s Auxiliary

OLD GIRLS’ PRESIDENT’S REPORT THE OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION (OGA) HAS AN EXCITING YEAR AHEAD! IN 2015 WE CELEBRATE OUR 90TH ANNIVERSARY AND TO MARK THIS SPECIAL OCCASION WE HAVE A NUMBER OF EVENTS PLANNED FOR YOU.

We started the year with the Young Old Girls’ Reunion at Matisse Beach Club in Scarborough. It was fantastic to see many of our leavers from the Classes of ’07 - ’13 enjoying a catch-up.

Old Girls’ Day was held on Saturday 28 March and saw the launch of the St Mary’s Memories book, a collection of reminiscences from Old Girls. This year was the first time we have held Old Girls’ Day on a Saturday and we are pleased to say it was a great success and embraced by many who have not been able to attend in previous years.

In our anniversary year, we look forward to celebrating and recognising the achievements of Old Girls through the Women of Distinction Awards. Please nominate Old Girls who are enjoying success in their field. More information can be found below. The Awards will be presented at the OGA 90th Anniversary Dinner on Saturday 15 August.

Another first this year will be the Boarders’ Reunion.

We are very excited to be holding this event on Friday 25 September and look forward to welcoming boarders from every era back to St Mary’s.

For each significant anniversary, the OGA presents a gift to the school. We were delighted to provide the

school with two Royal Doulton fine china teasets embossed with a fleur de lis.

Finally, I would like to farewell Jane Gillon (Fisher ’70) from the OGA Committee and thank her for her remarkable 26 years of service. Jane has had many roles over years, including nine years as President.

She has been a very strong supporter and tireless worker for both the Association and the school, and her contribution is very much appreciated. We wish Jane well as she continues her association with St Mary’s in her capacity as Vice Chair of the Board of Governors.

Jane Crisp (Cyprian ’81) President OGA MEETING DATES FOR 2015 All Old Girls are welcome to attend our committee meetings. Meetings are held in the Seminar Room in the Administration Building at 7.00pm on the following Tuesdays: 12 May 9 June

11 August 8 September

10 November

YOUNG OLD GIRLS CELEBRATE SUMMER IN ST YLE With a flurry of excitement at the mention of this event, the turn-out from our Young Old Girls didn’t disappoint.

Old Girls from the Classes of ’07 - ’13 had the chance to catch up at the funky Matisse Beach Club, Scarborough, in February. The girls had a fantastic time sharing treasured memories of their time at St Mary’s and chatting about what is happening in their lives today.

DO YOU KNOW A REMARKABLE OLD GIRL? THE ST MARY’S OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION WOMEN OF DISTINCTION AWARDS RECOGNISE AND CELEBRATE THE EXCEPTIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF FORMER STUDENTS TO THEIR PROFESSION AND COMMUNITY.

We are now seeking nominations in the categories of Career, Community and Young Old Girl. Nominations must be submitted by Tuesday 30 June 2015.

The Awards were established as part of the OGA’s 85th Anniversary Celebrations in 2010 and are awarded every five years. They are part of the OGA’s Women of Distinction programme, which includes an ongoing series of networking and social events. The aim of the programme is to foster opportunities for Old Girls to develop meaningful learning and career networks and encourage a life-time approach to excellence, become role models and make positive contributions to their community.

The Award winners will be announced at the OGA’s 90th Anniversary Dinner on 15 August 2015.

If you would like to nominate an Old Girl please visit www.stmarys.wa.edu.au/women-distinction to download the nomination form.

For further information please contact Jane Crisp (Cyprian ’81), OGA President, on 0403 182 152 or Linzey Allinson, Community Relations Manager, on 9341 9120.

You can also email us at oga@stmarys.wa.edu.au.

Old Girls’ President Report

33

NEW BEGINNINGS NEW BEGINNINGS COME IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES. WHETHER IT BE TAKING AN ENTIRELY DIFFERENT PATH FROM YOUR STUDIES, MOVING TO A NEW COUNTRY TO START A NEW LIFE OR RETURNING ‘HOME’ TO A DIFFERENT ROLE, IT IS NEVER TOO LATE FOR A NEW BEGINNING. FOUR OLD GIRLS SHARE THEIR NEW BEGINNINGS HERE.

EMMA PURTON (’08)

MADDIE NORTON (’08)

It’s been over six years since I donned my blazer for the last time and left St Marys, and it’s hard to wrap my head around just how much has changed. I’ve replaced maroon with high vis, brown shoes with steel caps, and my ever-dishevelled summer hat with a hard hat. After leaving St Mary’s I completed a mechanical engineering degree at UWA and was offered a spot in Shell’s graduate programme as a production engineer. I was lucky enough to be hired as part of the Prelude project, which is to be the world’s first floating LNG plant and the biggest floating structure ever! In order to gain experience for my future role, in 2013 I was posted to New Zealand to work on the gas plants and platforms for two years in a variety of roles.

Throughout my time at St Mary’s I was involved in a variety of extracurricular activities and I maintained a very broad range of interests. When it came to choosing a university degree I struggled to make my choice because I enjoyed so many different things. After a lot of research I found that UWA offered a double degree in Fine Arts and Commerce, enabling me to combine my passion for art with some of my more practical capabilities.

As the wells area technician I was responsible for making sure the eleven gas wells kept flowing, checking the pressures and temperatures to make sure nothing was amiss and supervising teams who were performing maintenance on the wells. I was responsible for millions of dollars of potential revenue for the company and the gas to keep New Zealand warm through winter. Being on a platform can be dangerous. Everyone must wear gas detectors and we run weekly drills on what to do in an emergency situation.

Working offshore can be very claustrophobic. You need to be a good people person and interact with a variety of people from different backgrounds and experiences, and be able to think clearly under pressure and in emergency situations. Everyone offshore is like family; it’s a lot of fun and living so close to everyone means you become good friends really quickly. I love the hands-on aspect of my job and working in such a dynamic workplace.

Just as leaving school felt like stepping into the unknown, leaving Perth for a new job and country was a challenge. The amazing group of girls who have been my support network since high school have continued to encourage me and visit me, and are always there for a chat when home seems very far away. They are by far the most valuable thing I gained from my time at St Mary’s. Although it hasn’t always been smooth sailing, I am so glad that I made the decision to relocate to New Zealand. I’m working with a great group of people doing a job that keeps me on my toes and learning every day. It can be scary stepping out on your own, but with great people around you it can help lead you to new things that you never imagined.

34

Old Girls News and Events

I loved the combination of art and business and, before I knew it, I was looking into postgraduate study options that would allow me to combine these two aspects. I discovered a Masters programme that involved practical art-world skills as well as theoretical and research-based knowledge. However, the only ‘problem’ was that this programme was through Christie’s Education in London and would mean a huge commitment and life change for me. After having been accepted I felt that I couldn’t turn down this incredible opportunity and so in 2013 I packed up and moved to the other side of the world (with a couple of months in between for travelling through Europe first, of course!). My Masters was an amazing experience.

My knowledge of the art-world increased exponentially and I found that I became increasingly independent and gained a huge number of life experiences along the way.

After a year of hard work, I was offered the opportunity to complete a two-month paid internship at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice, Italy. So in September 2014, after a crash course in Italian, I packed up my things once again and moved to the most beautiful city in the world. I was thrown into an incredible environment of 20-30 other young professionals from all around the world with similar interests to mine. Along with exploring the city and its surrounding towns, we learnt everything about the museum and its collection, from selling tickets and guarding rooms, to giving talks and tours (luckily these were in English!). It was two extremely exciting and rewarding months and I feel so lucky to be able to pursue a career that I’m truly passionate about. If I have any advice for current students it would be don’t ignore your passions and interests, as there are so many jobs out there that you don’t even realise exist.

After coming home for a respite and to see my family for Christmas I am excited to be returning to London in 2015 to take up a paid internship at Sotheby’s Auction House in their Contemporary Art Department.

TAL BERMAN (’09) Since leaving St Mary’s in 2009, I have completed a three-year Bachelor of Science (Exercise, Health and Sport Science), followed by a Diploma of Education (Health and Physical Education), at UWA. During my undergraduate studies, I held a number of positions in the sporting industry, spent time volunteering in small indigenous communities in the Pilbara and coached volleyball teams for national competitions, including the WA U/16 state girls’ team. In 2014, I was employed at PLC as a Health and PE teacher. But now, I am returning ‘home’ to St Mary’s to start a new beginning as a Health and PE teacher.

My main motivation is to make a difference in the lives of my students by creating positive lifestyle habits amongst young girls. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are hugely important in today’s world. I hope to convey my love and passion for physical activity into the values of my students. Another passion of mine and something I’d like to pursue in the future is working with children with disabilities, and teaching basic fundamental movement skills to give all kids the opportunity to be involved in physical activities.

The thing that touched me most about St Mary’s was the amount of time and support teachers were willing to give their students. As a student who endeavoured to do my very best, I was blown away by how far, above and beyond the call of duty, teachers would go to help me achieve my goals. I appreciate this even more now as a teacher myself, knowing the huge demands and time constraints that are placed upon teachers.

RACHEL FONG (’10) I have never been very good at making decisions; in fact, it often takes me several hours to decide what I want to have for breakfast! So, you can imagine the dilemma I faced when enrolling in university. First it was Sports Science, then Law, back to something along the lines of Nutrition and then back to Law. I eventually settled on a Bachelor of Commerce.

During the three years of study (and crazily, all at one time) I also worked as an Indigenous Support Liaison and Lifeguard, both at St Mary’s, an Intern at the Australian Bureau of Statistics, a Marketing Associate at Southern Wire Fencing, and as a casual swim teacher.

In hindsight, the decision to study Commerce was similar to the feeling you get when the breakfast you ordered is significantly better then everybody else’s at the table. To me, it was a wonderful degree because it has no limits and offers enormous versatility in the way of job opportunities.

In 2014, after successfully graduating, I was accepted into the BHP Billiton Graduate Programme in Human Resources. Recently, I have swapped heels and the shiny office in the City for a hard-hat and donga by taking a FIFO role, 145km north of Newman.

FIFO is a completely different lifestyle. I fly to site every Monday morning and fly back to Perth either on a Thursday or Friday night to have the weekend off in Perth.

Typically I catch the bus to Site at 5.30am. During the day I support the leadership teams in things such as employee relations, their organisational structure and building strategies to encourage diversity and inclusivity. I support the Mine Production department,

so I am often sitting in the middle of the Pit surrounded by dump trucks, diggers and the odd blast. The work day ends when I catch the bus back to camp at 6.00pm.

Camp is similar to a small holiday park – there is a pool, tavern, a gym and people play sports every night.

The food is on a whole other level – the camp really does cater for everyone and dinner is similar to what it was like at the boarding house. While working, I am studying a Diploma of Financial Planning and am continuing to enjoy learning about the wonderful world of HR and the mining industry.

Although I am working in a field that I did not study and I am not immediately saving the world, I am still enormously happy. Only a few months into my first “real job” I have learnt a hidden but invaluable lesson. Your path (career, study or personal) doesn’t always have to be up, up and away … it is ok to take a side step or two.

St Mary’s played a big role in supporting me while I studied and also teaching me resilience and the value of continued learning.

Old Girls News and Events

35

NEW HOSPITAL: NEW BEGINNINGS AS A NEW BEGINNING IN CHILDREN’S HEALTH IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA COMES TO FRUITION. TWO OLD GIRLS WHO HAVE BEEN INVOLVED WITH THE DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW PERTH CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL (PCH) EXPLAIN THEIR ROLE.

Above: Jamie and Christine Parin with daugter Hunter

Above: Kelly Fear with Daniel Brand and daughter Lucy

Above: The Perth Children’s Hospital.

The construction of any public building pulls together a large number of different industries but building a hospital presents a wider range of diversity. Old Girls, Christine Parin (Sheppard ’98) and Kelly Fear (’00), have been involved in the planning and fit-out of the new hospital.

Christine has been working with the Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (FF&E) team, for the Department of Health. Primarily, her main tasks have been dealing with the medical equipment going into the new hospital.

Christine’s background is as a Registered Nurse and she previously worked in a similar role for the Fiona Stanley Hospital. For PCH, Christine has been helping to determine the types of medical equipment required for the different areas of the hospital, the procurement of equipment, determining what and how equipment will transfer from the current site to the new site, and what will be bought new, and the development of processes and policies for all of these activities.

This is the first time Christine has worked in the paediatric setting and it has provided great interest and diversity for her personally and professionally. “It is a dynamic and interesting project to work on with a tight budget and tight programme. Given the inevitable pressure and stress that comes with this, it is a great feeling knowing we are doing this for the children of WA. We have fun on the project and think outside the square to ensure a child-friendly, unique, state-of-the-art facility for the children and their families.”

As a Project Manager, Kelly was involved in assessing how documents and records at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) are currently managed and how PCH could move to a more ‘paper light’ environment. As part of this role she worked with a variety of stakeholders across WA Health from the nurses on the wards, to gain an understanding of the documents they need to effectively do their job, to the State Records Office to 36

Old Girls News and Events

ensure the regulatory requirements of the hospital will be met, and to the Fiona Stanley Hospital project team to understand the challenges they faced when they rolled out the IT services which now incorporate all hospitals in WA. Kelly thoroughly enjoyed her time on the project, working with such a diverse group of people including doctors, nurses, IT experts, administrators, hospital executives, and the Head of Archiving (who showed her nursing uniforms dating back to 1909 when PMH was first opened. It was actually called the Perth Children’s Hospital up until 1949).

“I am never going to be a clinician but there is certainly a role for finance and project skills to work in this sector. Day-to-day we spent time on the building site which stands tall along Thomas Street in Nedlands, plotting out how the new facility would run and many hours in workshops with hospital staff designing service improvements,” she explained. “I plan to return to the PCH project in May this year to work on the operational commissioning programme which details every aspect of what needs to be completed to move all services to the PCH.” Both Christine and Kelly have recently welcomed new beginnings of their own, each having given birth to baby girls. Kelly echoed the words of many parents “Motherhood is by far the most challenging ‘job’ I have ever had - but entirely rewarding at the same time. In many ways I hope that we will never have to use the services of this brand new hospital, but I do know that should we need to, we will receive the best of care in an excellent facility.”

With such an important and essential service being built and provided for the WA community we are thrilled that St Mary’s Old Girls have had such a beneficial involvement.

HELEN JUDGE ART AWARD 2014 HELEN HYSLOP (JUDGE ’50, HEAD GIRL) IS A PASSIONATE ARTIST. IN 2009, SHE GENEROUSLY ESTABLISHED THE AWARD TO SUPPORT OLD GIRLS STUDYING ANY OF THE FINE ARTS.

For the first time since its establishment in 2009, the Helen Judge Art Award was awarded to two deserving recipients. Both embodied the true meaning behind the scholarship. Congratulations to Chanel Bowen (’10) and Olivia Tartaglia (’11).

Chanel Bowen (’10) has been studying a double degree of a Bachelor of Arts, Film and Television and a Bachelor of Commerce, Accounting at Curtin University, (she has finished the first half and is currently finalising the second). Chanel has aspirations to become a documentary filmmaker, producing films that portray a positive cause or organisation with a social conscience.

Since leaving St Mary’s, she has worked on several volunteer-based films not only with Curtin University, but many not-for-profit organisations as well. Chanel’s involvement in the not-for-profit sector has given her the desire to campaign for change for communities in need and believes that the media (film in particular), is an important avenue for promoting this change.

With a passion for nature, culture and the simplicity of natural beauty, Chanel intends to put her scholarship towards expanding her filming possibilities and finely developing her skills further.

Olivia Tartaglia (’11) completed an Advanced Diploma of Live Production, Theatre and Events in Costume and Set Design at Western Above: Olivia Tartaglia and Helen Hyslop Australian (Judge '50, Head Girl) Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). During her study, she designed sets and costuming for five shows that have all been produced and performed to a public audience, as well as one operatic piece outside of WAAPA. In 2014, Olivia was also the Director for the ‘Fine Art at Hale Exhibition’, leading a committee to produce a successful exhibition and event. Being a talented artist, Olivia has entered a number of her drawings into art local competitions, exhibitions and galleries. This has led to commissioned pieces and recently an exhibition space in The Little Wing Corner Gallery. In March 2015, she exhibited a solo art piece at The Bird. Olivia will use her scholarship to help kick start her career as a freelance designer in a very competitive industry.

OGA’S 90TH ANNIVERSARY EVENTS CALENDAR 2015 PLEASE REGISTER YOUR INTEREST NOW ON THE FIDELITER FLYSHEET, OR BY CONTACTING US AT OGA@STMARYS.WA.EDU.AU OR TELEPHONE (08) 9341 9132.

90TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER SATURDAY 15 AUGUST You are invited to celebrate the 90th Anniversary Dinner of the OGA and the presentation of the Women of Distinction Awards. This year we are extremely excited to welcome former Principal, Mrs Audrey Jackson, as the Guest Speaker. Mrs Jackson was Principal between 1983 and 1997.

OLD GIRLS’ BOARDERS’ REUNION FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER Boarding at St Mary’s created strong friendships that spanned across class year levels, so we are thrilled to offer an opportunity for all boarders to reunite at an evening sundowner event. Tours of the boarding house will offer guests an opportunity to see the facilities and level of comfort that St Mary’s girls now enjoy.

Time: 6.30pm to 10.30pm

Time: 5.00pm to 10.00pm

Venue: River View Function Room, Perth Convention Centre

Venue: Boarders’ Rec Room, St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School

Tickets: $120 per person

Tickets: $40 per person

Booking details: www.trybooking.com/GWQV

Booking details: www.trybooking.com/GZDL

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OLD GIRLS’ COMMITTEE REUNION FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER Former Committee Members are invited to join the current OGA Committee for a Christmas get-together.

More details will be mailed later in the year.

Old Girls News and Events

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OLD GIRLS’ DAY 2015: CELEBRATING YOUR MEMORIES THE CHATTER AND THE LAUGHS ARE ONLY JUST BEGINNING TO QUIETEN AFTER WHAT WAS A FABULOUS OLD GIRLS’ DAY. WE WERE DELIGHTED TO WELCOME OLD GIRLS FROM EVERY ERA, AND PARTICULARLY THOSE FROM THE CLASSES OF 1955, 1965 AND 1975, WHO WERE CELEBRATING THEIR MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES.

This year’s theme was the Celebration of School Memories. With the help of Reverend Joyce Polson (Deaconess), Linzey Allinson (Community Relations Manager) and many Old Girls, a book titled St Mary’s Memories, was published and launched. The book is a compilation of Old Girls’ stories, anecdotes and memories of years gone by at St Mary’s.

A number of these were recounted in person by contributors. The room was filled with fits of giggles and a few tears as Rev Joyce and Old Girls told their stories.

St Mary’s Memories may be purchased at www.trybooking.com/GZDA at a cost of $25 plus postage and handling, or by phoning (08) 9341 9132.

Above: Class of 1985

Above: Class of 1965 celebrating 50 years

Above: Class of 1975 with Reverend Joyce Polson

Above: Lorrie Maley (Rowledge ’33) and Marlene Carter (’63)

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Above: Helen Moorhead (’70), Noelene Dermody (Ball ’70), Jane Gillon (Fisher ’70), Jenny Pitman (Griffin ’70), Kathy Verrier (Samuels ’70) and Jennifer Faigenbaum (Kessly ’70)

Old Girls News and Events

Above: Amy Dawson (Fraser ’94) (right) presenting Mrs Lynne Thomson, Principal of St Mary’s with the OGA 90th anniversary gift.

REUNIONS WEST PERTH FRIENDSHIPS REKINDLED AND MEMORIES SHARED The Old Girls from West Perth had a wonderful time at the West Perth Reunion Vintage High Tea on Saturday 1 November. With over 100 ladies in attendance, countless stories and lots of laughter were shared. Many of the friendships are still as strong today as they were back in the day and those that had been lost were rekindled.

Thank you to everyone who attended. It was lovely to see so many Old Girls reliving their St Mary’s years in Colin Street with fondness.

Above: Reidun Jackson (Stene ’53) and Valma Cearns (Davies ’51)

Above: Beverley Ward (Kirby ’51) and Gay Routledge (Kirby ’64)

EAST COAST REUNIONS East Coast Old Girls joined St Mary’s Principal, Mrs Lynne Thomson, as she hosted a series of reunions in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne. Old Girls spanning several decades had a fantastic time recounting stories of their time at St Mary’s. It was lovely to see many familiar faces and catch up with everyone’s activities at each reunion event.

Above: Class of 1967

OLD GIRLS CELEBRATE THEIR REUNIONS IN STYLE! IN 2014, THE CLASSES OF 1974, 1994 AND 2004 EACH HELD THEIR REUNIONS AT DIFFERENT VENUES ACROSS THE CITY.

Once the squeals of delight at seeing their old friends again were over, they quickly got down to the business of reminiscing and exchanging stories of life since leaving St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School.

CLASS OF 1974 REUNION

CLASS OF 2004 REUNION

CLASS OF 1994 REUNION

Old Girls News and Events

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NEWS FROM OLD GIRLS GLORIA BURNETT (Pethick ’69) had a particularly busy and exciting 2014. Starting in April last year, she spent a week in Singapore, and then travelled to Europe where she visited many parts of Italy by coach and cruise ship. She finished her fantastic trip with four nights in Paris. Not content with that, Gloria also spent ten weeks during the winter, chasing the sun and travelling from Perth to Darwin.

ANNE HARRIS (’72) received a national award for her contributions to Teaching and Learning at Edith Cowan University in 2014. Anne received a Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning Margaret Saunders with in recognition of her Anne Harris leadership in the development, implementation, and ongoing support of university-wide policies and strategies related to English Language Proficiency. Anne was the only Edith Cowan University staff member to be honoured at a ceremony at Frasers Restaurant in September 2014. Anne is also part of a team, which recently won a research grant to improve the English language skills of Australian university students.

SUZANNE MCKINNON (Dansey ’72) served for ten years in the RAAF. She then joined BOC Gases originally in purchasing and moved into logistics transport. She was the Bulk transport manager for WA, SA and NT. DEBBIE WESTROPP (Federici ’85) has had an ambition to become a professional artist for many years. However, it is only recently that she has been able to make that ambition come true. Although Debbie is primarily a self-taught artist, over the past few years she has studied art part-time at TAFE and has recently had the opportunity to take part in a solo art exhibition, entitled “Passion8”, at the ACDC Community Gallery in Geraldton. This was achieved with the help of another St Mary’s Old Girl, Janelle Ende (Kelly ’85). Debbie has also launched her own website which has photos of the exhibited artwork (www.wisteriamoon.com.au).

Debbie has two children, Hayley, 23, and Keanu, 20, and is married to Steve. They have lived in Geraldton for the past five years and Kalbarri for twelve years prior to that.

Debbie Westropp

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Old Girls News and Events

ANDREA LANAGAN (’90) studied Agriculture and Wool Classing after completing Year 12 at St Mary’s and then proceeded to study Business, followed by Childcare and Education. She has held a variety of positions in the workforce including at KFC and Chicken Treat (which, she believes, provided her with great management skills) as well as a part-time ambulance officer. Whilst living in Brisbane, Andrea worked as a Group Leader in a Childcare Centre and ran two childcare centres for a superannuation company. Moving from Brisbane to Darwin she ran her own family daycare service, before joining the RAAF as a Communications and Information Systems Controller (CISCON).

Andrea spent eight years in the Air Force with postings in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. During her final two years in the RAAF, Andrea studied to become an Enrolled Nurse and then completed further study at university to become a Registered Nurse.

Whilst at university, she worked in Emergency, ICU and Orthopaedics before being approached to undertake IT work for the Department of Defence as a contractor.

After this, Andrea did reserve service in Policy and Planning for ADF Health for a year, before commencing as a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse in 2012. In 2013, Andrea finished her post graduate Certificate in Clinical Nursing - specialising in Neonatal Intensive Care.

At the beginning of 2014, she began work in a part-time Project Officer position, combining her knowledge of IT with clinical nursing. Andrea works closely with the 2014 ACT Australian of the Year, Zsuzsoka Kecskes, implementing a webcam streaming service to assist separated families bond with their babies.

Andrea has two children and lives in Canberra.

She continues to work at the Canberra Hospital in Neonatal Intensive and Special Care Units and for the Department of Neonatology.

FIONA HICK (Cresswell ’91) studied engineering and science after leaving St Mary’s, then lived in Karratha for four years while working for Rio Tinto. Since 2001 she has worked in a wide variety of both engineering and non-engineering roles at Woodside. Currently she is acting in the role of Senior Vice President Engineering at Woodside. Even though Fiona is now living in Perth with her husband, Steve and three children (Cameron, Peter and Sophie) she also spends a lot of time at their farm near Cowaramup, where she gets to be a part-time farmer.

EMMA PEARSON (’97) recently moved from Germany to Switzerland to be with her husband, after completing her ninth season of singing opera in Staatstheater Wiesbaden. On leaving Germany, she was awarded the honorary title of Kammersangerin (Ks) by the state of Hessen. It is usually a title given to opera singers after a lifetime of service to their art form. It is said she earned this by taking on the most difficult German roles, including Mozart’s Queen of the Night, Strauss’s Zerbinetta, Alban Berg’s Lulu, the German premiere of Shchedrin/Nabokov’s “Lolita” and Hilda Mack (a decrepit madwoman) in H. W. Henze’s “Elegy for Young Lovers”. She is the first Australian and youngest opera singer to receive this honorary title.

LUCY STOXEN (Treleaven ’98) and her husband, Alex Stoxen, welcomed a son, Isaac Nicholas Benjamin Stoxen on 20 January 2014.

GLADYS CHUA (’04) has just returned to Perth after ten years in Melbourne, to take up the position of School Accompanist at Penrhos College. Her career has taken her around the country, including appearances at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music (Townsville), Port Fairy Spring Music Festival, projects with the Melbourne and Tasmanian Symphony Orchestras, and tutoring at the Southern Cross Winter Music School (Rockhampton) and Tutti World Youth Music (Beijing).

She has just completed a Fellowship at the Australian National Academy of Music, and hopes to continue building her freelance music life in Melbourne, as well as in Perth.

NINA COLLINSON (Askew ’07) married Paul Collinson on 20 September 2014 at a lovely ceremony in the gardens of the Joondalup Resort and Country Club.

LINDSAY GREEN (’07), completed a Bachelor of Science (Psychology, Nina Collinson with her bridesmaids Anatomy and Human Biology) at UWA followed by a Bachelor of Science (Nursing) at ECU. She has been accepted to study a Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Notre Dame commencing in 2015.

Lindsay has recently returned from the Philippines after completing her final community nursing placement in various rural communities north and south of Manilla.

She enjoyed an overland adventure tour travelling from Nairobi, Kenya to Johannesburg, South Africa before commencing her studies at Notre Dame.

ELYCE JOHNSTON (’08) has recently moved to Sydney as she was posted on a naval ship, as a diesel technician, and will be travelling around the world. She will be taking part in the ANZAC Day ceremony in Gallipoli.

PIA JONES (Murphy ’08) was married in 2013 and has two beautiful girls, Poppy and Phoebe.

LISA GUO (’10) has recently graduated from the University of Cambridge with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. It was while she was studying at Cambridge that she realised what a gift her time at St Mary’s was, where she learnt the ’spirit of inclusiveness’ during her three years living in the boarding house.

NICOLE BURGER (’11) recently gained admission into the University of Western Australia Doctor of Medicine programme for 2015. With a passion for tutoring, Nicole tutors indigenous youths and first year university students.

MELANIE JACKSON (’13) received the Queen Scout Award at her local club on 23 September 2014.

The activities and requirements of the Queen’s Scout Award are designed to be inspiring and challenging. It is the highest recognition Melanie Jackson that the Venturer Section (young people aged 15 - 17) can bestow.

Congratulations, Melanie.

JENNA BLAIR (’14) is doing a Foundation year for Education at the University of Notre Dame and is hoping to complete a degree in Primary Teaching.

TAYLOR HOOPER (’14) will be doing an online prep course for ECU, due to having recent surgery on her ankle which has a four month recovery. After she has completed the prep course she is planning to do a sport science course, also at ECU, in 2016.

TAHLIA LOWE (’14) has been accepted to Curtin University to study Screen Arts.

MADELEINE MURRAY (’14) has moved to Melbourne to study furniture design at RMIT University.

COURTNEY YOUNG (’09) Courtney graduated in 2013 with First Class Honours in Interior Architecture from Curtin University. She started her own company, Courtney Young Visual, in 2013, which focusses on interior consultations and commissioned art pieces. Courtney recently collaborated with fashion designer, Betty Tran, and was commissioned to create an art installation for her Perth shop front for a media and VIP night in December 2014. Apart from immersing herself in her art and interior design, Courtney also works full-time as a consultant for BGC Residential. Courtney credits St Mary’s for giving her the drive and push she needed to reach her potential and the confidence to go out into the world and make her dreams become reality.

Old Girls News and Events

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VALE BARBARA BROCKMAN (’36, HEAD GIRL) 6 SEPTEMBER 1919 - 22 SEPTEMBER 2014

Barbara was born in Busselton and joined St Mary’s in 1933. She was a Form Prefect, Library Prefect, School Prefect and, in 1936, Head Girl.

Academically, Barbara excelled, being awarded the Archbishop Riley Prize in 1935 and Dux of the School in 1936. She passed her Leaving Certificate in five subjects.

After leaving school, Barbara graduated from the University of Western Australia with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in modern literature and psychology. During the war, she worked for the Air Force. During the course of her career, Barbara worked at Melbourne University, wrote advertising scripts for radio in the United Kingdom and then Singapore, before returning to Perth to work in health education.

Jil gave birth to five children over an eighteen-year period, and so it was more than 30 years before she re-entered the Jil and Marjorie Langler in 1934 work force, volunteering at Mt Henry Home for the Aged and later, she was a gardening consultant, where her encyclopaedic knowledge of all matters horticultural was eagerly sought by customers, friends and family.

Jil is survived by her sister, Marjorie Spear (Langler ’46), four of her five children, nine grandchildren, one greatgrandchild and many loving memories.

The Evans Family

ROSAMUND JEFFERIS (WHITAKER ’40)

FAY AVERY (PERCIVAL ’57)

24 SEPTEMBER 1924 - 24 FEBRUARY 2014

1 FEBRUARY 1940 - 22 MAY 2014

Rosamund joined St Mary’s in 1937 and attended for two years. Her mother, Mrs Whitaker, taught Latin and English at St Mary’s, but when she was appointed to another school, Rosamund also left.

After leaving school, Rosamund moved to Sydney where she trained to be a science teacher. She married Lt Cdr Dick Jefferis RN, an Englishman, and they had two sons and two daughters. They lived together in the United Kingdom, Malta and India, following his naval postings, before returning to Perth in the 1980s.

Fay was the daughter of a forest manager and spent many happy years growing up in the forests of the south west. She boarded at St Mary’s, West Perth, from 1955 - 1957. Fay’s best friends were Leslie Kerr (Elliott ’57) and Fay Avery at her wedding in 1962 Madeline Bell (Forrest ’57), and they all remained close until Fay’s death. Fay was a champion tennis player and a member of the school choir.

JIL EVANS (LANGLER ’42, HEAD GIRL) 5 JUNE 1927 - 9 JULY 2014

Josephine Isabel Langler, known as Jil, attended St Mary’s between 1933 and 1942. She was Head Girl in 1942, and left school at the end of Year 11 after completing her Junior Certificate. She began working as an assistant at the Darlington Kindergarten and became

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the teacher-in-charge.

Jil was accepted into nurse training to start at Perth Hospital, but declined the offer as she married Reginald Evans on 18 January 1947.

Vale

Fay went to secretarial college and then worked for Caltex Oil for many years. In 1958, Fay was named Miss Insurance Perth. Around this time, she caught the eye of racing car driver, Robert Avery. They married in 1962 at St Mary’s Church, West Perth.

Fay and Bob had two children, Anita and Grant (deceased). Anita attended St Mary’s from 1977 – 1981.

Fay’s granddaughters, Claire Avery-Jones (Year 12) and Diana Avery-Jones (Year 11), are the third generation of Avery women to attend St Mary’s.

Fay left Caltex Oil to run the family car business, Rangeview Riding Academy, and then the family horse property in the Swan Valley (now Chester’s Restaurant and Winery). Ever sought after for her keen sense of business management, Fay then went on to run Anita’s physiotherapy practice from 1990 – 2005. In retirement, Fay and Bob moved to the canals in Mandurah and spent many years travelling around Australia in their mobile home.

KERENSA ALLASON (’89) 25 JUNE 1972 - 16 NOVEMBER 2014

Kerensa joined St Mary’s in Year 11 as she wanted to study TEE music. It was not easy to change schools at this stage of her senior studies, though it was a smooth transition. She soon made a lifelong friend in Emma Cook, a boarder from York. One of Kerensa’s favourite memories of her school days was being in the school orchestra for the production of Jesus Christ Superstar. She also loved cake decorating.

She played her oboe in various music groups. She swam with Aussie Masters and gained medals at club, state, national and Pan-Pacific competitions. Kerensa shared her love of swimming and teaching in volunteer work at the Laverton pool and the people she worked with and served as duty manager at various pools, including Karratha, Wesley College and Edswim.

She is survived by her father, John Allason, her mother, Mary Ellen MacDonald, and stepfather, Michael Pauly, and her brother, Andrew Allason.

Mary Ellen Macdonald LESLIE HEARN 21 MAY 1929 - 16 JANUARY 2014

It was with immense sadness that we learned of the passing of Mr Leslie Hearn at the beginning of 2015. Les was a great supporter of St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School, giving his time and expertise to the school. He was also a generous benefactor. Les was a member of the Board of Governors from 1975 – 2001, and Chairman from 1986 2000. He was always proud of the growth, development and success of St Mary’s. He believed that the school was the best place in Western Australia for girls to learn and grow.

In 2012, the Board of Governors recognised Les’s roles on the Board of Governors and as a founding member and Trustee of the Foundation by naming him the First Honorary Life Member of St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School. Although reticent about a building being named in his honour, Les was delighted to have Hearn Hall bear his name.

It was our privilege to have Les as a member of our community. He was a gentleman in every sense of the word. We extend our sincere condolences to Audrey Hearn and her family.

Lynne Thomson

Vale

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ST MARY’S ANGLICAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL INCORPORATED Elliott Road Karrinyup Western Australia PO Box 105 Karrinyup WA 6921 telephone: (08) 9341 9111 facsimile: (08) 9341 9222 email: stmarys@stmarys.wa.edu.au website: www.stmarys.wa.edu.au CRICOS Number 00454C YOU CAN NOW FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

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