Fideliter | Summer Edition 2019 by St Mary's Anglican Girls' School

FIDELITER S T M A R Y ’ S A N G L I C A N G I R L S ’ S C H O O L • S U M M E R E D I T I O N 2019

DISCOVERING YOUR PASSIONS

10 13

contents

14 4

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

13 FROM YOUR HEAD GIRL

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

14 TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE

FROM THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

16 STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

FROM THE FOUNDATION

10 MAKING SPORTING HISTORY

18 SUCCESS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY 19 FEATURE: DIVING INTO MARINE SCIENCE

COVER: St Mary's Athletic team celebrate victory at the 2019 IGSSA WA Athletics Carnival.

FIDELITER CONTENTS

20 27

22 WORK READY PROGRAMS 24 ARTISTIC TALENTS ON DISPLAY 26 PERFORMING ARTS AT ST MARY'S 28 STAFF SPOTLIGHT 30 JUNIOR SCHOOL 34 PARENTS' SOCIETY

35 ST MARY'S AUXILIARY 36 OLD GIRLS' ASSOCIATION 40 OLD GIRL PROFILES 46 NEWS FROM OLD GIRLS 49 VALE 50 ARCHIVAL ANECDOTES

30 FIDELITER 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 email:

publicity@stmarys.wa.edu.au

editors:

Danni Wick and Amanda Kemp

editorial assistants:

Joan Karmelita, Raeley Jones and Jacinta Spry

design and production:

Dessein

FIDELITER CONTENTS

“You can only become truly accomplished at something you love. Don’t make money your goal. Instead pursue the things you love doing and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off of you.”

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

DISCOVERING

YOUR PASSIONS

M AYA A N G E L O U

here is considerable discussion in education circles regarding the identification of the most important contributor to academic success. I prefer to view the topic broadly and consider the significant contributors to success across a range of areas alongside academic achievement, including sport, the arts, technology and innovation, and service activities, among many other areas. Passion, a strong desire or belief in something, often features in this educational debate and when I reflect on the saying “love what you do, and do what you love”, it is evident that you need passion to succeed long term in your chosen career path. But how can you identify what your passion really is? At St Mary’s we offer a broad-based curriculum supported by an extensive co-curricular program to enable multiple opportunities for girls to explore areas they are interested in. We allow time and space for them to discover their passions, as true passion is rarely discovered overnight.

FIDELITER From the Principal

Social researcher, Mark McCrindle, states that Generation Z students, those born between 1995 and 2009, will be constantly on the go, moving home, jobs and careers faster than we have ever seen before in history. In fact, according to McCrindle, current school leavers are expected to have 17 jobs across 5 careers and live in up to 15 homes in their lifetime. When faced with such a movable future and complex career pathway, is it still relevant for our girls to find their passion in one area, or is it now more appropriate or even possible for them to approach everything they do in life with passion? Should we make a shift from looking internally to discover our single passion and instead, focus more outwardly and altruistically on the positive impact the passion in our work leaves on others? Examples of this alternative approach can be found in the joy our Indigenous Service Trips to Kununurra, Marble Bar and Nullagine deliver to local communities. This positive impact of passion was particularly evident in the visit last term by our colleagues from the Cambodian Children’s Fund where our teachers freely gave of their time and experience to share their skills and knowledge with the Cambodian teachers who work in an extremely under-resourced environment. We also witnessed this with our tremendous IGSSA WA (Interschool) Athletics win, when we broke a 47-year drought to be named the Athletic Champions for the first time since 1972! I have reflected a good deal on that tremendous sporting success, and I believe the girls’ victory came down to the team being encouraged to simply do the best they possibly could on the day of competition; after all, we could not ask for more. Additionally, the sharing of passionate team support contributed to the wonderful team spirit and camaraderie and cannot be overlooked as contributing factors to this historic win. I am also sure that our Junior School Athletes were inspired to strive for their success in the JIGSSA WA (Junior Interschool) Athletics Competition! In what turned out to be a record-breaking Term 3 of sport for St Mary’s, we also managed to win, for the first time in history, the Athletics, Basketball and Soccer

Championships. And let’s not forget the tremendous success of the girls in the SunSmart WA State Surfing titles, where St Mary’s was crowned overall runner-up in the girls’ division. There have been many other opportunities for our girls to follow their passion in a variety of other ways, including the Senior School Production of Funny Girl; international study tours to Europe (History Tour), Madagascar, Japan and France; International Exchange Programs; the Coral Bay Marine Science Expedition; Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions; wearable art; the creativity of CAPAF; development of apps as part of our multidisciplinary integrated technology program; and successful participation in numerous enrichment activities such as the da Vinci Decathlon, the UWA Engineering Challenge and the National History Challenge, along with the ‘My First Speech to Parliament’ competition; the Perfect Pitch competition; the Bond University Film and Television Awards; and the WA Young ICT Explorer to name but a few. And indeed, all these experiences have provided multiple opportunities for our students to share their passions and leave a positive impact on others. A fine example of this is Reverend Joyce Polson OAM, Chaplain Emeritus, who has devoted her life to her passion for the Anglican faith and the work of Christ. Her sermons and stories have touched the heart of our girls, new and old, during her time at St Mary’s. Rev Joyce, or Deaconess, as she is known to many Old Girls, retired from St Mary’s for the first time in 1994, before returning in 2010 to provide additional support to the Chaplaincy and to support and guide our students and Old Girls. At the end of 2019 we will formally farewell Rev Joyce as she retires for the second time! On behalf of the School, I thank Rev Joyce for the contribution, warmth and care she has provided to the St Mary’s community since 1967 and wish her all the best in her retirement. I also look forward to inviting her back to share special moments going forward, including many Old Girl events and our Centenary celebrations in 2021. While commending the inspiration and drive created by finding your passion, I fully acknowledge that this often seems easier said than done. For those of you still to find your true passion, keep searching and experiencing new opportunities. Consider the advice of Apple cofounder, Steve Jobs, who famously said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle.” Great advice, if you ask me! Mrs Judith Tudball Principal

FIDELITER From the Principal

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

find it hard to believe that I have only been at St Mary’s for two terms. Schools are busy places and St Mary’s is no exception. It was a privilege to work alongside Father Terry Curtis during our handover. Father Terry, through his warmth, intelligence, faith and humour, made a huge impression during his twoterm tenure and it was lovely to welcome him back to the Valedictory celebrations at the girls’ behest. I hit the ground running at the beginning of Term 3, where I was part of the School’s celebration of St Mary’s Day for the first time. The Right Reverend Jeremy James TSSF, Assistant Bishop of Perth, presided over a full-school eucharist, during which I was also commissioned as the School Chaplain. It was a significant occasion, made all the more memorable by the involvement of our students, and the presence of my family, including my 16-month-old grandson, Darcy.

TOP: Fr Richard with grandson, Darcy, and

Prefects on the day of his commissioning. MIDDLE: Junior School Chapel Service. BOTTOM: Service visit to Nullagine.

FIDELITER From the CHAPLAIN

I was soon back in the rhythm of school life, and it has been great! St Mary’s has maintained its strong Anglican foundation and practices, which makes the life of a chaplain

much richer and more grounded. The fact that every girl from Kindy to Year 12 receives a weekly chapel service and religious education lesson is far from typical these days, and it allows for a deeper exploration of both our traditions and the issues of the day. The boarding community adds a lovely dimension to school life and our evening services are very special. I have also been delighted at the generous spirit of St Mary’s through fundraising, social awarenessraising activities, such as the Blue Tree Project, and service-learning experiences. I enjoyed a week in Kununurra at the end of Term 3 with eight girls and six Christ Church Grammar School boys on a service trip and I look forward to our annual Cambodia experience at the end of the year. I was also pleased to be back coaching water polo for the first time in a few years. All in all, it has been a busy and fulfilling start. Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support. I wish you all a happy and blessed Christmas and an enjoyable and safe start to 2020. Reverend Richard Pengelley

FROM THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

“Chase down your passion like it's the last bus of the night.” TERRI GUILLEMETS

s the Chair of the Board of Governors, it is my absolute privilege to be able to witness the extensive achievements of the girls when their successes are recognised during formal assemblies each term. Other board members and I are continually amazed by their long list of accolades in education, music, theatre, art and sport. However, our admiration for the girls goes deeper than that. We are continually impressed by their enthusiasm for learning, the kindness and respect they show to each other, and their dedication and commitment to community service. As I take off my Board hat and put on my Old Girls’ hat, I cannot tell you how excited I was to hear of our success at the Interschool Athletics Carnival and the way in which the girls supported each other throughout the day. I was thrilled to begin the Board meeting that day, not with rules and governance, but the joy of our girls’ triumph. I was in Year 3 when we last won the Athletics

Carnival and I can vividly remember the electrified atmosphere as we all celebrated. Never underestimate how the passions of a school event can form a lifelong view of the wonders of a team celebration. Congratulations to all! I am delighted to welcome Peta-Jane Secrett (Hogg ’98) to the Board of Governors. Peta-Jane is a tutor, guest lecturer and PhD candidate at the Law School at UWA. She will bring to the Board valuable legal expertise as well as a deep passion and commitment to St Mary’s and girls’ education. Welcome, Peta-Jane! On behalf of the Board of Governors, thank you to the Executive, staff and volunteering parents and Old Girls who are doing all they can to enable our girls to discover their passions. And, as one of my passions is summer, I wish you all a wonderful summer holiday filled with the delights of exploring life beyond the classroom. Elizabeth Carr AM Chair, Board of Governors

FIDELITER From the Board of Governors

FROM THE FOUNDATION

“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”

NELSON HENDERSON, AUTHOR

elson Henderson’s quote expresses beautifully how the foresight and kindness of past generations benefits others far after their time has passed. Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of St Mary’s full transition of students from the cramped conditions in West Perth to the open space of Karrinyup. It was an ambitious move, which was only made possible through the dedicated efforts of parents and Old Girls to raise funds for the development of the new school buildings. Those donors gave in the knowledge that generations of girls would benefit from their actions and of course, since then, thousands of girls have experienced an exceptional St Mary’s education at Karrinyup. As a Foundation, we continue this commitment to furthering girls’ education, and we are, therefore, delighted to announce a $1 million funding contribution to the extension

of the Lady Treatt Centre for Music and Dance, the first project of the St Mary’s Masterplan 2019-2030. These facilities, due to be completed at the end of Term 2, 2020, will provide students with an additional dance studio, new spacious music rehearsal spaces and more practice rooms. Throughout 2019 the provision of needs-based scholarships has remained a priority for the Foundation and our fundraising program. Your extraordinary support of the inaugural Giving Day for the Annual Giving Scholarships in June, has enabled us to provide a third student with an Annual Giving Scholarship for her senior schooling. Thank you for making her dream of coming to St Mary’s come true. I am always inspired by the wonderful generosity of our School community. My warm and grateful thanks go to everyone who supports St Mary's. Marlene Carter (’63) Chair of the Foundation

LYNNE THOMSON OVERSEAS STUDY SCHOLARSHIP

RESEARCHING FOR A HEALTHIER WORLD

ongratulations to Ruth Young (’03), who is the inaugural recipient of the Lynne Thomson Overseas Study Scholarship. Funded by the Foundation, the award was established in recognition of Mrs Thomson’s 21 years as Principal of St Mary’s, and her love of two of life’s offerings – education and travel.

Ruth is studying for a doctorate in International Health (Health Systems) at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in the USA. After leaving St Mary’s, Ruth worked as a civil servant in Australia and Africa. She has also completed two Bachelor degrees and a Masters in Health Policy, Planning and Financing, at the London School of Economics and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. “I am committed to deepening my research skills to be in a position to advise policy through research,” said Ruth. “My aim is to be able to generate policy-relevant research that improves the lives of marginalised groups at risk of poorer health outcomes. In the future, I hope to take on a leadership role within a research organisation and have the privilege of mentoring other women through the often male-dominated academic space.” RIGHT: Ruth presents on ‘International Medical Graduates in South Africa’, in a Department of International Health, Health Systems Seminar at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.

FIDELITER From the Foundation

FAY’S BEQUEST EMPOWERS OLD GIRL TO PURSUE HER PASSIONS

iss Fay Bailey’s (’40) long connection with St Mary’s began when she joined Form 2A, aged 9, in 1931. She was a member of the Old Girls’ Association for over 70 years, served on the Old Girls’ Association Committee for four decades (she was made an Honorary life Member in 1991), and was one of the founding Trustees of the St Mary’s Foundation.

Science. Bridget Rumball (’13), was a recipient of this award in 2018.

During World War 2, Fay worked for the Red Cross and afterwards spent her working life as a secretary, and was for some years, secretary to Jack Howson OBE, Mayor of the City of Melville. Fay renewed her connection with the School in the 1950s and remained a generous and committed supporter until her death in 2011.

“I was able to combine my passion for advocacy with my love of constitutional law. I believe our humble Constitution has given birth to some of the most interesting and controversial decisions in Australian case law. Having the chance to be involved with a fake constitutional case was a dream come true. I was thrilled to be recognised as a joint winner of Overall Best Oralist award.”

Fay left a bequest to St Mary’s, which provides for the annual Fay Bailey Scholarships in Engineering, Law and

“It was a privilege to receive the Fay Bailey Scholarship for Law last year,” said Bridget. “This generous funding assisted me in representing UWA at the Sir Harry Gibbs Constitutional Law Moot in Melbourne. It meant that I could invest all of my time into researching and practising alongside my team and it helped me improve my advocacy skills.”

TOP: Fay Bailey (’40). LEFT (CENTRE): Bridget Rumball (’13).

BISHOP RILEY BEQUEST SOCIETY DINNER

he Senior School Art Exhibition provided a wonderful setting for this year’s Bishop Riley Bequest Society annual dinner. Year 12 Art Captain, Catherine Shepherd, and Year 12 student, Tyla Durell, guided guests around the exhibition of student work and spoke about their passion for, and involvement in, the art program. Hosted by Principal, Mrs Judith Tudball, and Chair of the Society, Marlene Carter (’63), guests included Old Girls, past and current parents and staff.

If you are interested in remembering the School in your will, please contact Linzey Allinson, Director of Philanthropy, for a confidential discussion on (08) 9341 9120 or email lallinson@stmarys.wa.edu.au

L-R: Dana Trtica (’63), with Glenn and Lisa Barrett.

L-R: Year 12 Art Captain, Catherine Shepherd, and Jane Gillon (Fisher ’70).

FIDELITER From the Foundation

MAKING SPORTING HISTORY For the first time ever, St Mary’s has celebrated interschool athletics wins for both our Senior School and Junior School in the same year.

series of record-breaking performances paved the way for St Mary’s to claim victory at the IGSSA WA Athletics Carnival for high school students, held at the WA Athletics Stadium in September. It was our first athletics win since 1972 and just our second win in the history of IGSSA WA.

St Mary’s Sports Co-ordinator, Miss “What an incredible year for Nat Sumner, said the day was filled athletics at St Mary’s. I am extremely proud of all our amazing with outstanding performances. “Of 118 events completed on the girls and hard-working staff.” day, our girls recorded 83 personal bests,” she said. “This is an amazing achievement and a true reflection of the hard work and dedication they have shown.” St Mary’s Principal, Mrs Judith Tudball, congratulated the team on the tremendous win and thanked everyone involved. Mrs Tudball also congratulated the Year 5 and 6 girls for winning their pennants at the JIGSSA Athletics Carnival, which took place at the WA Athletics Stadium a few weeks later.

FIDELITER MAKING SPORTING HISTORY

To top off an outstanding year in sport, St Mary’s were crowned overall runners-up in the girls division of the SunSmart WA School Surfing Titles, the state’s biggest participation-based surfing event. Outstanding results were also achieved in interschool sport, with our netballers winning the overall pennant for the 21st year in succession. Additionally, St Mary’s were triumphant in IGSSA volleyball and soccer, as well as basketball, which the girls won for the 9th year in a row.

MAIN IMAGES: IGSSA WA Athletics Carnival. TOP RIGHT (L-R): Athletics Captain Leah Richards, Soccer Captain Sophie Robins and Athletics Vice-Captain Kate Boultbee. BOTTOM RIGHT: The winning Year 5 and 6 JIGSSA Athletics team.

FIDELITER MAKING SPORTING HISTORY

OUR MOMENT

of Glory

he moment that it was announced that St Mary’s had won the IGSSA Athletics Carnival was the most surreal of my time at school. Walking into the WA Athletics Stadium that morning, I do not think anyone expected St Mary’s to win. All the girls had been working hard and we certainly had a strong team but given that it had been so long since we last won, the atmosphere was one of enjoying the competition and giving it our best. I loved watching the interactions between girls of different years during the day. We bonded over the heat and the fact that nobody really enjoys hurdles! As I was team captain and competing in my own events, I was unable to keep track of the scoreboard until moments before the final relay, in which I was our fourth runner. The realisation that we were in first position was incredible, but we told ourselves to stay calm. The relays could change positions drastically in the last minutes. It was not until we got back to school that we learnt it came down to our Year 11/12 relay, allowing us to win by only 6.5 points! I will never forget the moment when St Mary’s was announced as the winners. I remember turning to Kate Boultbee, the vice-captain of the team, whose expression of pure joy and shock mirrored my own. Against a backdrop of the St Mary’s team and staff cheering loudly, we were handed the cup. Holding it up in celebration was incredible! I want to thank the teachers and coaches, who gave up their mornings and afternoons to train us. Thank you also to the 2019 squad, because without them I would not have had the opportunity to experience this win as captain in my final year of school. Leah Richards 2019 Athletics Captain

FIDELITER MAKING SPORTING HISTORY

ABOVE: Dr Anne Harris with Leah Richards.

PASSING THE BATON ACROSS THE YEARS When Old Girl, Dr Anne Harris (‘72), heard the news that St Mary’s had won the IGSSA Athletics Carnival for the first time since she captained the School to success in 1972, she was overcome with emotion. “I was really happy because it had been so long,” she said. “I’m so proud of the girls.” Despite being 47 years apart, Anne said there were numerous similarities between this year’s triumph and the three-point win in 1972, with both extremely close competitions coming down to the final events of the day. Much like this year’s success, Anne said the victory in 1972 was not about individual wins but was a victory for the team and the entire School.

FROM YOUR HEAD GIRL hat’s a wrap! The 2019 school year is over and, as Head Girl, I have had an absolute blast being able to put my ideas into action and interacting with all the year groups. It has been a busy time, I am not going to lie, but that is what has made it all the more fun. This year, due my strong connection with my home in York, I have tried to share a few of my experiences from farm life with the School. Following on from our first assembly where I introduced my dogs as examples of how we are all different, yet can work together, I initiated other opportunities to bring the country to the city. A fun one was a wheat-growing competition for the Year 7s, to give them an insight into what the boarders and their communities go through trying to raise a crop. Some classes were more successful than others; a few classes realised that if you overwater your wheat crop to swamp levels, then it will die as quickly as in a drought. I also introduced the Blue Tree Project to St Mary’s. This involves dead trees being given a ‘blue’ lease on life by being painted blue, to raise awareness about mental health and wellbeing. The idea was inspired by Jayden Whyte and his friend, who decided in good humour to paint a dead tree blue, on his family’s farm at Mukinbudin. Sadly, Jayden tragically took his own life. After losing Jayden, his family and friends decided to paint another tree blue in his memory and to serve as a visual reminder for others to check in on their

loved ones. Painted blue trees are now widespread throughout the Wheatbelt, and the initiative has since expanded around the state, country and even overseas. I brought the project to St Mary’s as a visual reminder of mental wellbeing and that it is ok to speak out about our problems and how we are feeling, even at school, and to watch out for our mates. Together as a school, different year groups painted our tree blue and the message spread. I hope the Blue Tree Project at St Mary’s is supported in the years to come and our community continues to look out for each other. As I write this on the farm, we are waiting for the rain to come. This season has had a dry finish but that is the gamble of farming. Despite the best farming practices, we cannot control the weather or natural disasters, such as floods or droughts. Just like farming, life is unpredictable and will throw us many curveballs, but that is also what keeps it exciting. With our St Mary’s education and the support of our community, we are well prepared - as long as you roll with the punches, stay optimistic and enjoy the ride. I am thrilled to have led St Mary’s in 2019 and to have shared my experiences from home. Here’s to many great years ahead! Kate Boultbee Head Girl 2019

KATE BOULTBEE

Boarding

A PASSION FOR COUNTRY LIFE

(’19)

FIDELITER from your head Girl

This trip has left us with a sense of wonder about what else there is to discover in this incredibly diverse world we live in. Kim de Vries, Year 10: Japan

SELF-DISCOVERY

through travel

and adventure

EACH YEAR, ST MARYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STUDENTS ARE OFFERED WONDERFUL,

ADVENTUROUS

OPPORTUNITIES

VISIT,

AND

DIVERSE

EXPLORE

AND

ENGAGE WITH THE CULTURE AND LIFESTYLE IN MANY OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD, AS WELL AS HERE IN AUSTRALIA. THESE EXPERIENCES ARE OFFERED AS AN ASPECT OF THE HOLISTIC EDUCATION THAT IS THE CORE OF THE SCHOOL, PROVIDING THE GIRLS WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO CHALLENGE THEMSELVES AND TO DISCOVER WHAT THEY ARE GOOD AT AND ENJOY DOING, AND FOR SOME PERHAPS, TO DISCOVER THEIR PASSION.

FIDELITER Travel and Adventure

In 2019, these tours have included language tours to both Japan and France, where the girls have visited cities, towns and villages entirely different from those they know here in Australia, situated in landscapes quite unlike those here at home. They have enjoyed living with host families and attending schools which were not at all like St Mary’s. In the process, the development of the girls’ knowledge of and fluency in French and Japanese has been invaluable. Also academically enriching is the biennial European History tour, which is steeped in history and culture, with a focus on the Holocaust. This tour moves the girls’ perspectives from the pages of their texts and screens to the places, the buildings, the monuments where the events they study are made powerfully real.

St Mary's girls are offered the opportunity for physical adventures and challenges too. Our Principal, Mrs Tudball, describes her visit to the Year 11 Leadership Camp at our beautiful Metricup campus: The girls were encouraged to stretch themselves to be “comfortably uncomfortable” and to push the boundaries of what might be possible with a display of courage and confidence. I was so proud of the girls I worked alongside; not only did they complete a 10 metre abseil, but they also pulled together to encourage and support each other to complete the more challenging 40-metre abseil. The sense of pride and achievement from the girls was palpable. Adventure in the form of physical and intellectual challenges was also part of the experience of the students participating in the science expedition to the rugged countryside

of Madagascar and on safari in the South African Pilanesberg National Park. The girls worked alongside experienced scientists, enjoying hands-on instruction in field research and conservation and surveying fascinating and beautiful fauna and flora. St Mary’s long-established and highly regarded Marine Science program also offers exciting exploratory dive tours every year. (See page 20 to read more.) All of these opportunities are not only significant in the ways in which they enrich the girls’ academic studies. Perhaps even more significant are the ways in which the girls experience personal growth, through increased confidence and resilience, a much deeper understanding of the wider world, and with greater self-awareness, and awareness that we all have a part to play in the global community.

It was amazing to be able to go to places that we have heard of in class and really see it with our own eyes. Harper Durell, Year 10: European History Tour

FIDELITER Travel and Adventure

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2019 STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS Congratulations to all of our students who make the most of the many opportunities at St Mary’s, both in and out of the classroom. You inspire us daily. We are pleased to share a small selection of our students’ achievements, which demonstrate some of the ways our girls have discovered their passions.

Lucy delivers her maiden speech to Parliament

The da Vinci Decathlon Named after Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), a man whose lifelong passion and determination to uncover the unknown still inspires us to this day, the da Vinci Decathlon is an academic competition across ten disciplines, designed to challenge and stimulate the minds of school students. In 2019, St Mary’s girls followed in his footsteps, when our Year 7 and 8 da Vinci Decathlon teams were crowned the state winners and our Year 9 students placed third. The winning teams went on to compete in the national finals in Sydney. In an amazing display of brainpower and teamwork, our Year 8s won the national round in their year, resulting in an invitation to attend the international competition in Rome.

FIDELITER Student Achievements

Year 10 student, Lucy Lönnqvist, has been touted as a future MP, after winning the National 2019 My First Speech competition in Canberra. Lucy presented her (mock) ‘maiden speech’ in Parliament House, speaking passionately about using wellbeing as a measure of a country’s success. Lucy said that while Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the output of Australia’s work, it does not measure how worthwhile or fulfilling that work is. “Australia needs to establish a new pathway for political policy, redirecting attention from how wealthy a population is, to how healthy and happy a population is,” she said. If you would like to watch Lucy’s impassioned speech, visit: https://bit.ly/36swqtt

Blitzing the BUFTAs Year 12 media studies students, Catherine Shepherd (above) and Ebony Cunningham (right) were recognised for excelling in their studies, during the Bond University Film and TV awards on the Gold Coast. During the gala ceremony, Catherine won three awards for Best Comedy Production, Screen Writing and the Jury Prize for her short film I Need Space. She was also nominated for Best Directing. Ebony’s production Terra Nullius won the Red Bull People’s Choice Award and was nominated for Best Drama Production, Best Achievement in Editing, Best Achievement in Cinematography and Best Overall Filmmaker. St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School was also nominated for the Best School Award.

St Mary’s Makes History In a competition which recognises Australia’s brightest young historians, Year 10 student, Alice Ward, was announced as the National 2019 Young Historian of The Year, by the Federal Minister for Education, Dan Tehan.

Dressed for Success – Wearable Art In an amazing display of creativity and function, Year 12 student, Catherine Shepherd, was announced the National Winner of the Wearable Art section at the Apex Australia Teenage Fashion and Arts National Awards in Melbourne, which resulted in a scholarship to LCI Melbourne, the Australian Academy of Design. In August Catherine won the state sections of the Teenage Fashion Awards in Wearable Art, with her CAPAF costume and Formal Wear, with her Year 12 Ball gown, which she designed and made. We also congratulate Misha Gunasekera, Year 11, who was awarded runner up in the National Society and Environment section of the awards. (See her vibrant creation on our inside back cover).

“Alice was a deserved winner, delivering an extensive research essay demonstrating corrupt power during the late 1960s East German doping scandal,” Mr Tehan said. Alice also won the WA Young Historian, Year 10 Level, and the Sports category. Olivia Nolan (Year 11) and Lucy Lönnqvist (Year 10), were among the national winners in Canberra, with Olivia winning the ‘Using Primary Sources’ award and Lucy winning the ‘Museum Exhibit’ award. The National History Challenge is a nationwide competition, involving more than 6,500 students from more than 800 schools across Australia.

LEFT (L-R):

Lucy Lönnqvist, Federal Member for Stirling, Vince Connelly, Alice Ward and Olivia Nolan.

FIDELITER Student Achievements

LEADING THE WAY IN ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

t Mary’s innovative environmental sustainability programs have caught the attention of local and federal governments.

The Federal Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management, Trevor Evans, Federal Member for Stirling, Vince Connelly and City of Stirling Mayor, Mark Irwin, took time out of their busy schedules in November to meet with our students who are working on ground-breaking ideas. The visit was hosted by Year 10 students, Lucy Lönnqvist and Poppy Briggs, who developed the awardwinning app Bin It Right. City of Stirling Mayor, Mark Irwin, took the opportunity to award the girls with the Stirling Star Award, in recognition of their dynamic idea, which aims to solve the problem of improper waste disposal (pictured below with their awards).

FIDELITER Student Achievements

Poppy explained that the Bin It Right app uses a unique photo recognition feature: “The app scans the image and indicates whether the item belongs in the green waste, waste or recycling bin.” The girls won the state finals of the ICT Young Explorers competition which then led to an invitation to pitch their app to five Waste Management ‘Sharks’, during the (adult) Waste and Recycle Conference in late September. Successfully pitching using skills they had learnt as part of the innovative Year 10 i3 STEM program, they won $4000 to invest in their app. The tour also showcased St Mary’s sustainable and waterwise garden, which produces fresh herbs and vegetables. The garden also houses six worm farms, which churn through kitchen waste to produce organic fertiliser and soil, for reuse in the garden.

The Minister then met with Year 10 students studying Marine Science, who have developed a number of environmentally sustainable inventions such as a drinking straw made from sea lettuce, and an ‘Obot’, which could be a potential solution to marine biofouling and decommissioning WA’s oil and gas rigs and allowing them to naturally form a reef. The girls have also researched key areas such as the harmful effects of chemicals like oxybenzone, contained in sunscreens, on the growth of sea lettuce, and ultimately, our marine system. The visit finished with a passionate talk by Year 1 student, Isolde Hogden, who presented on A Plastic Ocean and the changes needed to protect marine life.

F E AT U R E

DIVING INTO MARINE SCIENCE

THANKS TO ST MARY'S, YEAR 12 STUDENT ZOE STARKEY HAS BEEN ABLE TO TRANSFORM HER EARLY CHILDHOOD PASSION FOR ANIMALS INTO A CAREER GOAL TO STUDY MARINE MAMMALS AND FURTHER HER STUDIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TASMANIA.

he St Mary’s Marine Science course opened the world of marine archaeology, SCUBA diving and coastal engineering to me. The course went beyond the classroom and helped connect me with real science and researchers. Can you imagine what it is like being a Year 9 student actually contributing to a global whale identification project? It is fantastic!

I found myself working with a team of students doing underwater marine surveys in the very cold waters off Maria Island on the east coast of Tasmania. We collected and analysed zooplankton, conducted fish surveys and studied intertidal zones. After long, exhausting and exciting days, we then had

lectures late into the night. I learnt so much about the challenges of fieldwork, and although it was tough completing all the written requirements of the course while completing Year 12, it was worth it. St Mary’s has enabled me to discover and pursue a passion for marine science through developing skills that then opened doors to additional amazing opportunities. I have had experiences beyond my wildest expectations, and I have learnt so much more than what is described in the course handbook. I have not only discovered my passion - I am getting to live it. Zoe Starkey, Year 12

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In 2017, during Year 10 work experience, I spent ten days on a research field trip with the CSIRO in the Ningaloo World Heritage Marine Park, installing satellite trackers on turtles and tagging sharks. As a result, I was invited to speak at the CSIRO Marine Science Annual Symposium in front of marine science professionals, PhD and university students, on what it was like to be on your first research field trip. It was daunting but inspiring.

12 students. There were 300 applications and I was offered one of 24 places and fortunate to be awarded a scholarship to attend the first for a Western Australian student. I enrolled in ‘A Practical Introduction to Temperate Marine Biology’, which is a tertiary-level course.

In 2019, Mr Staniforth suggested I apply for a University of Tasmania Marine Science Course for Year

TURNING MY PASSION INTO REALITY

FIDELITER Feature: Diving into Marine SCIENCE

F E AT U R E

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DIVING INTO MARINE SCIENCE

CONTRIBUTING TO GLOBAL RESEARCH ANCHORED THREE KILOMETRES OUT TO SEA IN TROPICAL WATERS OFF THE CORAL BAY COAST, 32 STUDENTS FROM YEARS 9 TO 12 PREPARE TO DIVE INTO THE SPARKLING TURQUOISE WATER.

he stretch of water the girls are about to explore, is part of Ningaloo Reef, and serves as a playground for turtles, manta rays and humpback whales, making it the perfect spot for the students to explore the reef and conduct world-class research.

Back on board, under the expert guidance of US Professor, Michael Williamson, a world-renowned educator and researcher, who has made his annual trip here from Wheelock College, Boston, along with Mr Mark Staniforth, Head of Marine and Maritime Studies at St Mary’s, the girls are taught how to correctly photograph humpback whales and manta rays, as well as collect water samples of the marine animals’ environment. The girls’ research is uploaded to online database, MICSPix, a photo processing and matching program, accessible to researchers globally through WhaleNet.org, which allows marine experts, and nonscientists such as teachers and students, to track the migration habits of marine mammals, and is used in around 140 countries world-wide. This was just one example of the many incredible days the girls took part in during their week-long trip to Coral Bay and Exmouth.

FIDELITER Feature: Diving into Marine SCIENCE

Photos courtesy of Anouska Freedman (’12), Ningaloo Discovery and Kate Dawson.

“We had long days,” explained Professor Williamson. “We were up at 6.00am and worked until after dinner. I was showing the girls the best methods to take photographs and what to look for, so it’s about as hands-on as you can get. It’s really gratifying to work with them and see new scientists emerging.”

“It’s a truly amazing program to be involved with. They’re not just reading science, they’re doing science.”

Along with Zoe Starkey, Year 12 marine science student at St Mary’s, he also gave a presentation to Year 12 Marine and Maritime Studies students from St Mary’s, MLC, Ocean Reef SHS and Butler College.

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Following the trip, Professor Williamson conducted several marine mammal lessons with students studying Marine Science in Years 9 to 12, as well as Junior School students.

When asked about the pinnacle of his success, Professor Williamson said he was extremely proud of the research methods he had developed to identify blue whales and the creation of WhaleNet.org but working with the girls from St Mary’s has also been a career highlight. “We have the longest running blue whale research program in the world but working with kids is the fun part,” he said. “You get to see the eyes brighten in someone who is really interested. “It’s a truly amazing program to be involved with. They’re not just reading science, they’re doing science. They’re experiencing it and they’re getting skills and interests and knowledge I wish more and more students had. It’s a real gem.”

FIDELITER Feature: Diving into Marine SCIENCE

work experience

WORK READY PROGRAMS

REACHING THEIR

FULL POTENTIAL

OPPORTUNITIES THAT OPEN DOORS

he Year 10 Work Experience program, which is part of the Career Education program at St Mary’s, allows students to develop career interests, personal strengths, support systems, role models and expectations about the future. They improve their career knowledge by enhancing career decision-making and gaining an understanding of the world of work.

confidence and self-esteem. For some students who were out their comfort zone, this experience presented them with new ways of looking at the world and giving them the inspiration to really embrace the field of work that they had chosen to discover.

The girls were encouraged to pursue a field of work which interests them and that they are passionate about, before embarking on their chosen career path, whether it be vocational or university.

As Paul Doherty, Head of People and Culture, Centurion Transport wrote: “You should be very proud of them. They represented St Mary’s in a very professional manner, and they were an absolute pleasure to have around our business. We look forward to continuing the relationship with St Mary’s.”

The workplaces chosen were many and varied, ranging from architectural firms, radiological and dental clinics, veterinary surgeries, law firms, the media unit of The Department of the Premier and Cabinet, primary schools, fashion design boutiques, AQWA and the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre just to name a few. The girls were challenged by the interactions, longer working days (for some), and using their motivation and initiative in situations where the employer expected them to work independently, which in turn, increased their

FIDELITER Work ready programs

Many employers have provided the students with very positive feedback, congratulating them on their performance in the workplace.

By discovering their passion through work experience, the girls have developed some important networks and even obtained extra working hours and possible work opportunities in the future. Pina Zingales Work Experience Co-ordinator

ELEVATE PATHWAYS #loveisland

SUCCESS

ith a focus on delivering an educational experience that encourages our girls to discover and embrace their best, our Elevate Pathway offers students the opportunity to experience professions in a realworld environment.

The girls also participate in Elevate Week, a week dedicated to experiencing and celebrating vocational pursuits and pathways. This year we welcomed back Old Girl, Ara Salomone (â&#x20AC;&#x2122;01), who shared her Elevate journey, which ultimately led to her qualifying as an architect. (You can read more about Araâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience on page 42).

Our Elevate girls undertake study and industry placements in vocations that offer direct and alternative pathways to many exciting career and study options. This year our girls have worked in architecture, nursing, building and construction, make-up artistry and law enforcement, including placements at Channel 9, applying make-up to celebrities and newsreaders, and the WA Police Department.

The exciting thing about Elevate is that students can work and train in fields that are interesting and relevant to them. By the end of Year 12, these students have a wealth of real-world experience and the skills and knowledge to enable them to pursue the career opportunities they are passionate about, and thus more likely to succeed in.

This practical workplace experience provides them with an opportunity to find out what they are

work experience

PATHWAY TO

interested in and develop a deeper understanding of the profession and the tasks involved, allowing them to make informed decisions about their career and study options. After deciding which direction to take, students choose a certificate qualification that aligns with their personal goals.

Pamela Underwood Head of Vocational Education Elevate Pathway

FIDELITER Work ready programs

ARTISTIC TALENTS ON DISPLAY

JUNIOR SCHOOL ART

A world of possibilities This year in Junior School Art we have explored a variety of themes, forms of expression and techniques, the results of which were displayed at our annual Art Exhibition in Term 3. Exploring art has the wonderful potential of opening children up to the wide variety of possibilities for learning, growth and enjoyment, not just within the realm of art per se but also for exploring Life. Curiosity is always at the heart of art learning and where possible, connections are made with science, maths, literacy and geography - everything is connected. One of the highlights of this year has been our Frida Kahlo project. Our Year 3 and 5 girls learnt about the art, life and struggles of this now famous Mexican artist, whose creative expression contributed much to our view of the world. Many students also took inspiration from the Leeuwin Current sea life, while our Year 1 girls created fairy houses and fairy foals, which were purely magical.Â Marie McNeil Junior School Art Specialist

FIDELITER artistic talents on display

SENIOR SCHOOL ART

Inspired design The quote "Creativity requires the courage to let go of certainties”, by Erich Fromm, aptly describes the works displayed in the Term 3 Senior School Art Exhibition. As educators, we strive to provide opportunities for our students to experiment with art processes that ignite their artistic interests and offer opportunities to display individual skills. The New York Art trip in January not only broadened the girls’ horizons but also inspired the Year 12 Design Dinner Party setting at the art exhibition. Meanwhile, the Year 12 ATAR students showcased their interactions with the environment and the Year 11s displayed their works, which were inspired by differences as well as insects, using recycled materials. A variety of themes and art forms were also revealed at the exhibition by girls in Years 7 to 10, including masks, tree houses, printmaking, observational drawing, digital design and paper-mâché sculptures, made from bowling pins. Keryn Cooper Senior School Head of Visual Arts and Design

FIDELITER artistic talents on display

STUDENTS STRIKE A CHORD WITH THEIR

Musical Performances Music resonates with St Mary’s girls. There are many students who have discovered their passion for music through learning an instrument and participating in one of the more than 20 St Mary’s ensembles that rehearse weekly. Audiences have been captivated by the many solo and group performances this year including the September Concert, Our Lady in Winter Service at St George’s Cathedral, CAPAF Concerts, House Singing, and assembly performances just to name a few. A visit by our Year 10 to 12 Big Band to our neighbouring Anglican community at aged-care residence, Moline House, had the residents dancing in the aisles. In Term 3, we were delighted to welcome the Pennsylvania Girlchoir to St Mary’s. The choir performed at the first Formal Assembly, followed by a week of workshops, rehearsals and school performances, culminating in a combined concert. In a wonderful display of collaboration and inspiration, St Mary’s Hi Fidelity, St Mary’s Voices and Hale Senior Choir, teamed with our visitors to produce stunning performances that will remain etched in our memories. There is a brightness, energy and an innate sense of happiness that shines from each of our band, choir and orchestra students while they are performing – it is passion personified. Lynette Taylor Head of Music Performance

FIDELITER Performing Arts at St Mary's

The Snow Queen

DANCE AND DRAMA STUDENTS

Shine Brightly Highlights in Dance this year include the technically challenging pieces that our Junior and Senior Dance Companies performed at the IGSSA Dance Festival, as well as the Interhouse Dance competitions, which showcased the choreographic talents of our 2019 Dance Captains. Additionally, audiences were amazed by the annual Dance Showcase, where all students studying Dance shared their class dance works.

The Snow Queen, performed by girls from Years 7 to 9. There were also the remarkably creative plays that were directed and devised by our fabulous 2019 Drama Captains for the Interhouse Drama Competitions. Additionally, students gave impressive performances in the Year 9 Drama Night, Scripted Monologue performances and the Original Solo performances evenings for students studying Drama at St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

In Drama we had two successful school productions, the School Production of Funny Girl, and

Megan Watson Head of Drama and Music

Funny Girl

FIDELITER Performing Arts at St Mary's

STAFF SPOTLIGHT Our St Mary’s teaching team make us proud every day. Their ongoing professional development, pursuit of knowledge and facilitation of our girls’ involvement in both the classroom and out-of-school events and competitions, deliver an exceptional educational experience for all students.

HASS HEROICS

APPLE DISTINGUISHED EDUCATORS Michelle Fitzpatrick, Head of Technology and Enterprise, and David Brown, Education Technology Integrator, received national recognition for their passion and commitment to technology and innovative opportunities for students, by being selected to join the Apple Distinguished Educators (ADE) Class of 2019. The pair are two of only a handful of WA educators welcomed into the Apple community of creators and educators in 2019 – a rare honour for teachers at a school, such as St Mary's, where students can bring their own device. They were invited to attend the Apple Institute, an outstanding professional development opportunity to learn the latest from Apple presenters and connect with distinguished educator alumni. Apple created the ADE Program in 1994 to recognise K-12 and higher education pioneers who are using Apple technology to transform teaching and learning in powerful ways. 28

FIDELITER staff spotlight

Irene Cumming, Gifted and Talented Co-ordinator - HASS, has developed considerable expertise in inspiring our girls to aim high. Her work mentoring both girls and staff culminated this year in 22 students being selected to attend the national Future Problem Solving finals in October 2019; the success of our Year 7 and 8 students in winning the state-based da Vinci Decathlon for their years and the Year 8s going on to win the national finals; and guiding our girls to success in the Australian History Challenge, including Year 10 student, Alice Ward (pictured below), being awarded the Young Australian Historian of the Year.

The History Teachers Association of WA has congratulated our HASS team, and in particular commended Irene, for helping our students do so well in the Australian History Competition, including Anya Chen achieving a high distinction. They said over 34,500 students across Australia entered the competition, so to have a student rank so highly is a testament to her dedication and ability.

MARINE MARVEL We congratulate Mark Staniforth, the Head of Marine Science and Diving, for being admitted as a member of the prestigious Sigma Xi, the scientific research honour society for scientists and engineers. Sigma Xi has nearly 100,000 members who are elected to membership based on their research achievements and potential. In addition to publishing American Scientist magazine, Sigma Xi provides grants annually to promising young researchers. More than 200 winners of the Nobel Prize have been Sigma Xi members, including Albert Einstein. LIFELONG LEARNING English teacher, Shannon Wells, who completed her Master of Research in 2017, has had a paper based on that research accepted for publication by the prestigious UK journal English in Education. The comments by international peer reviewers have all been very complimentary, and her supervisor, Brian Moon from ECU, stated that few are chosen for this esteemed publication.

congratulations WE COMMEND THE FOLLOWING STAFF WHO HAVE COMPLETED POSTGRADUATE QUALIFICATIONS IN 2019: Belinda Beckwith Master of Human Rights, Curtin University Josie Detata Master of Educational Leadership, Monash University Ian Thompson Master of Educational Leadership, The University of Western Australia WE ACKNOWLEDGE AND THANK STAFF WHO HAVE ACHIEVED 20 YEARS’ SERVICE IN 2019: Congratulations to David Cromie, Felicity Letch, Fiona McGlinn and Pam Underwood for this milestone achievement. Your contributions, dedication and passion to the girls and St Mary’s are admired and appreciated.

Farewell

SADLY, IT IS TIME TO FAREWELL SOME OF OUR VALUED STAFF MEMBERS, AS WE SAY GOODBYE TO:

Reverend Joyce Polson, Chaplain Emeritus Reverend Joyce Polson, a much-loved member of our community, has decided it is time to retire (again!) from her formal working life. Rev Joyce first retired from St Mary’s in 1994 and returned to the School in 2010 at the request of Mrs Thomson, to provide additional Chaplaincy support for our students and Old Girls. She has made an exceptional contribution to St Mary’s over more than 50 years, and we wish her every blessing in this new stage of her life. Rev Joyce warmly stated: “I have been very blessed to be a part of the School over the last 52 years as it has progressed and prospered. I look forward to continuing my association through the Old Girls’ Association and St Mary’s Foundation. I have been most grateful for all that I have learned at St Mary’s. Young people can teach us oldies a great deal if we are prepared to listen to them.”

Anthea Bivoltsis, who is retiring after commencing and finishing her teaching career at St Mary’s. Anthea started out in 1978 as a first-year graduate and, after three attempts to leave, was constantly drawn back by our amazing girls. “It has been a fabulous journey and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity,” said Anthea. Linda Richards, who is retiring after a 40-year career as an English teacher, including Head of English at St Mary’s since 2008. “I am grateful for the privilege of being trusted by so many beautiful students and families here,” Linda said. Rebecca Watts, who leaves for a promotional position as Head of Senior School at PLC, Perth. Rebecca started at St Mary’s in 2012 as Head of Media Studies, before taking over as Head of Year 12 in 2014 and added the role of Wellbeing Program Co-ordinator to her portfolio in 2018. “I would like to thank my colleagues for their support and hope to remain a part of the St Mary’s community,” said Bec.

FIDELITER staff spotlight

JUNIOR SCHOOL HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT THE JUNIOR SCHOOL IS A PLACE WHERE WE PROVIDE THE GIRLS WITH A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES, GIVING THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE AND EXPERIENCE. CREATING THESE EXPERIENCES NOT ONLY TEACHES SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE TO THE STUDENTS BUT ALSO ENABLES THEM TO DISCOVER HOW THEY LEARN AND WHAT EXCITES A PASSION IN THEM.

ll students are different and have differing needs and interests, and our staff are committed to a learning approach that caters for the holistic development of each girl. Our extensive arts program, both musical and visual, provides the girls with a wealth of opportunities to explore their feelings, develop creatively and grow their passions. A student’s artistic nature can be fed through art projects, where they can develop their drawing, painting, sewing or ceramic skills. The Junior School Art Exhibition brilliantly showcased the development of the girls’ artistic side and newly acquired skills. Additionally, participation in musical assembly items and music nights give students the opportunity to perform and display their passion and talents to the community. Moreover, it is well-documented that girls thrive on social connections, whether it is through collaborative learning in the classroom, interactions with older or younger people or connecting with the wider community. This year our girls in Kindergarten have enjoyed interacting with boys from Scotch College, while girls in Pre-primary and Year 1 participated in fun activities with students from Hale School. All of our Junior School girls also loved performing for their grandparents and showing them their work on Grandparents’ Day. Through these wide experiences that the girls are given in the Junior School, the whole person is developed and nurtured, and their own passions discovered.

Helen Adams Head of Junior School

FIDELITER Junior School

DEVELOPING A LIFELONG PASSION IN JUNIOR SCHOOL

DEVELOPING PASSION AND A LIFELONG LOVE OF LEARNING RECENT RESEARCH FROM STANFORD UNIVERSITY SHOWS THAT A GROWTH MINDSET AND ONE'S ABILITY TO DISCOVER AND DEVELOP A PASSION ARE CLOSELY LINKED. THIS SUPPORTS THE IDEA THAT NOT EVERYONE HAS A BURNING PASSION FROM AN EARLY AGE AND THAT MANY INDIVIDUALS NEED TO DISCOVER THEIR PASSIONS BY A PROCESS OF TRIAL AND ERROR. SOUNDS SIMPLE ENOUGH!

his is where the growth mindset comes in. A growth mindset is characterised by the belief that with effort, new skills can be developed and improved over time, thus aiding the development of someone’s passion. Therefore, the message in this study is clear - passions take time and effort to develop. Keeping this in mind, our Junior School aims to expose our girls to a wide variety of experiences which may lead to the igniting of an ‘interest’ which may develop into a future passion. All students from our Kindergarten to Year 6 enjoy a rich and varied excursion and incursion program that aligns with curriculum outcomes and enhances learning experiences, both in and outside the classroom and beyond the school gates. Inquiry learning, particularly in STEAM learning areas (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths), is embedded in our daily activities. Understanding the world of science is a focus area in the Junior School as our girls enjoy time in the purpose-built science lab with our Scientist-in-Residence Program, led by Dr Tabitha Yngstrom. Each week, our girls participate in hands-on lessons covering biological, chemical, physical, earth and space sciences. For example, this year our Kindergarten girls spent a morning learning about six and eight-legged invertebrates with the Spineless Wonders incursion. The visit encouraged our students to become advocates for the largest group of creatures on land by introducing them to the wonderful biodiversity in invertebrates. The girls were able to understand the vital role mini-beasts (micro-invertebrates), play in our environment as cleaners, pollinators, recyclers, sources of food, prey and predators. Similarly, our Year 5 students enjoyed the natural surroundings of our Metricup campus during their camp, learning about animal diversity and the impact of fires on flora and fauna ecosystems.

FIDELITER Junior School

The need to acquire technology and engineering skills is growing exponentially and we aim to balance screen time with learning the necessary skills required to work competently in the 21st century. Our teachers deliver highly engaging and varied lessons where technology is used to enhance learning and complement all classroom activities. Around the Junior School, girls can be seen coding robots, building shadow puppet theatres, creating their own iMovies or researching information during their genius hour or passion project time. Hot inquiry topics include: The Rights of a Child, Our Plastic Oceans, Social Media and How to be Safe, and How to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Equally, Mathematics is another focus area in the Junior School and our girls relish investigating numbers, shapes, measurements and data to answer problem-solving questions. All maths lessons are supported through the use of hands-on equipment to make learning visible and tangible. As many of our girls would say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Junior School is all about giving things a goâ&#x20AC;?. Sometimes you might be surprised by what you like doing and then it turns into a real passion. Geraldine Drabble Deputy Head of Junior School - Curriculum

FIDELITER Junior School

PARENTS' SOCIETY

he Parents’ Society have had another successful year, holding an array of events and funding projects around the School.

In July we organised the 2019 Careers Expo which showcased nearly 40 exhibitors. St Mary’s and Hale students met with representatives from a huge range of businesses, universities, study abroad facilitators and apprenticeships, to discuss study and career options, subject directions and future employment possibilities. Our girls have always been keen supporters of many charities and causes. The now annual Parents’ Society Quiz Night provided a perfect opportunity for the School community to come together for a fun evening and to raise funds for some very worthwhile causes. Funds raised this year have been directed to the Cambodia in Action Trip, Anglicare and SMART animal rescue.

ABOVE: Newest Honorary Life Members of the Parents' Society, Mike Scanlon (left), and Andy Griffiths. RIGHT: 2019 Careers Expo.

FIDELITER Parents' Society

To end the year we are once again running the big Full Fee Raffle. This voluntary raffle is your chance to win a year’s school fees in 2020. All profits go to funding more projects and events which enrich the girls’ learning environment and the School community. A huge thank-you to the amazing committee members who give their time so generously, in support of the girls and the School, which we are all so passionate about. This year, we were delighted to recognise the incredible service and contribution of two members of our Committee, Andy Griffiths and Mike Scanlon, by awarding them with Honorary Life Membership of the Society. Thank you to all the staff for their continued support throughout the year and all the very best to the Class of 2019! Elizabeth Price President St Mary's Parents’ Society

ST MARY’S AUXILIARY Afterwards grandparents were treated to a special tour of their granddaughters’ classrooms and the sensational Junior School Art Exhibition. Auxiliary volunteers also served a most appreciated afternoon tea. We were spoilt with another glorious day for the Auxiliary Lunch. Thank you to everyone who donated raffle prizes; there were a lot of very happy winners. The funds raised at the lunch will support the St Mary’s Auxiliary Music Bursaries.

eflecting on 2019, it has been another rewarding and very busy year for the St Mary’s Auxiliary. Our amazing parents continue to contribute their skills and time to all our events. Thank you - I appreciate the support and help you give to bring our community together.

The Junior School Athletics Carnival was once again supported by parent volunteers; my thanks go to the Year 2 parents who donated delicious sweet and savoury treats and ran the cake stall, and to Year 3 parents who distributed the pizza lunch.

Auxiliary volunteers also welcomed the new Year 7 and Year 8 families starting in 2020 at the Senior School Orientation Day with a lovely morning tea. We were on hand to answer a plethora of questions and spread our community spirit to our new families. If you are interested in becoming involved in the St Mary’s Auxiliary in 2020 please visit www.stmarys. wa.edu.au/community to find out more. Our class representative positions are open for all year groups and a few of the committee positions will also become vacant, so we invite you to nominate for 2020. Best wishes for the holiday season. Daina De Mattia President St Mary’s Auxiliary

BELOW: Celebrating Grandparents' Day. BOTTOM: Senior School Orientation Day.

Junior School grandparents enjoyed a great afternoon visiting St Mary’s in September. They were entertained by the enthusiastic Pre-primary and Year 3 girls performing assembly items, as well as musical ensembles and a lovely service from Father Richard.

FIDELITER St Mary's Auxiliary

OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION

W PRESIDENT’S REPORT

hat a fantastic year we have had. 2019 has seen Old Girl events around the state, across the country and overseas, which have been a wonderful opportunity for Old Girls to meet our tenth Principal.

OGA MEETINGS FOR 2020

All Old Girls are welcome to attend our committee meetings. Meetings are held in the Seminar Room of the Senior School Administration building. For meeting dates in 2020 please refer to the St Mary’s website www.stmarys.wa.edu.au/oga

2020 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 7.00PM, 19 MARCH 2020

You are invited to join the OGA Committee for the 2020 Annual General Meeting. Please contact us at oga@ stmarys.wa.edu.au if you would like to attend or join the OGA Committee. OGA Committee Members who are seeking re-election in 2020 are: Shelley Civitico (Robson ’73), Julie Martin (Huxtable ’73) and Andrea Sassella (’98).

MOLLY RILEY RISE AWARD We are delighted to award the inaugural Molly Riley RISE Award, a new initiative recognising and rewarding an Old Girl in pursuit of the extraordinary, to Zara Torre (Kuriyan ’99). The judges were impressed by her venture to develop a charity ‘round up’ app and her pro-bono dentistry work, both in Perth and overseas. Due to the amazing calibre of applicants the judges also awarded runner-up prizes to Emma Lynch (’14) and Madeleine McKenzie (’14). Emma is the Assistant Coach (Talent) at Diving Australia and is working with the team as they prepare for the Tokyo Olympics. Maddie has been accepted into the Masters of Astronomy and Astrophysics program at the University of Western Australia and hopes to secure a PhD scholarship to study at the worldrenowned Mt Stromlo Observatory at the Australian National University. OGA SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS The OGA was proud to present the following scholarships and awards to current students this year: the Marlene Carter Scholarship for Year 7 to Ally Bowman (daughter of Sharyn Yeo (’92)), the Ethel Beaton Scholarship for Years 11 and 12 to Isabella McKay (daughter of Tamara Wann (’93)) and the Jane Gillon Arts Award to Year 12 students, Una Minello and Catherine Shepherd. WELCOME TO THE CLASS OF 2019 On 22 October we welcomed our newest Old Girls – the Class of 2019 - at the Valedictory Dinner. This is always an event full of hope and excitement and a hint of nostalgia. We wish all the 2019 leavers the best in their future endeavours and look forward to hearing of all their successes. It was also appropriate at this event that we acknowledged our first group of ‘Originals’ - students who have attended St Mary’s from Kindy/Pre-Primary/Year 1 through to Year 12. In the past, these students have been known as ‘Survivors’ but in light of the current connotations around this word, and after consultation with students, these students will now be known as ‘Originals’. In closing, I would like to thank the Committee and all the staff who support the Association and I look forward to a productive and enjoyable 2020 – a year when we will be celebrating our 95th anniversary. Please look out for details of events as we celebrate this milestone. And in closing, if you know of, or are an Old Girl, achieving and contributing wonderful things, remember to get your nominations in for the 2020 Women of Distinction Awards! Have safe and happy summer holidays. Amy Dawson (Fraser ’94) President Old Girls’ Association

FIDELITER Old Girls

OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION N O M I N AT E YO U R F R I E N D S F O R T H E 2020

WOMEN of DISTINCTION Awards Do the achievements and contributions of any of your Old Girl friends deserve recognition? The St Mary’s Old Girls’ Association Women of Distinction Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements and contributions of former students to their profession and community. The Old Girls’ Association are now seeking nominations in the categories of yy Career – significant success and/or contribution in chosen career yy Community – improving the lives of others yy Young Old Girl (18 – 30 years of age) – professional and/or community contribution The 2020 Award winners will be announced at the OGA’s 95th celebration at Old Girls’ Day on Saturday 4 April 2020. To nominate yourself or another Old Girl please visit www.stmarys.wa.edu.au/women-of-distinction. ABOVE: Jessica Gethin (Walker ’97), Audrey Jackson (Principal 1983-1997) and Tresslyn Walmsley (Smith '89) at the 2015 Awards.

Nominations must be submitted before Friday 3 January 2020. For further information please contact Amanda Kemp, Alumnae Relations Officer, on email oga@stmarys.wa.edu.au

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2019 OLD GIRLS SCHOLARS A number of scholarships are available to Old Girls to support them through their university years, which have been made possible by our generous St Mary's community through donations and bequests. In 2019 we introduced two new scholarships, the Lynne Thomson Overseas Study Scholarship and the Molly Riley RISE Award. We are pleased to announce the winners of these inaugural awards: Lynne Thomson Overseas Study Scholarship: Ruth Young (’03) Molly Riley RISE Award Zara Torre (Kuriyan ’99) with runners-up Emma Lynch (’14) and Madeleine McKenzie (’14)

Our congratulations also go to: Bonny Milne Scholarship for Medicine: Scholarships: Kate McKenzie (’15), Rudra Bhatt (’15) and Josephine Kneebone (’15). Bursary: Jamilah Addis (’15) and Kaitlyn Poon (’15) Deborah Cook Scholarship for Nursing: Sophie Dragovic (’17) Esmee Byatt Scholarship for Medicine: Kriti Sharma (’14) Fay Bailey Scholarship for Engineering, Science and Law: Shannon Brown (’13) and Indiana Scanlon (’16) Helen Judge Art Award: Rachita Vasandani (’15) Applications for the 2020 Scholarships are now open. For further information about how to apply for these scholarships please email oga@stmarys.wa.edu.au. Applications close on Friday 27 March 2020.

LEFT: Zara Torre (Kuriyan ’99), the inaugural recipient of the Molly Riley RISE Award. Zara was recognised for her pro-bono dentistry work and development of a charity app. We are also delighted that Zara will be the special guest speaker at the St Mary's 2019 Speech Night.

FIDELITER Old Girls

OLD GIRLS’ EVENTS & REUNIONS

CLASS REUNIONS What a year it has been for reunions! The Classes of 1969, 1979, 1989, 1999 and 2009 all celebrated their significant anniversaries since leaving St Mary’s in style. One of our Old Girls remarked, “It was really lovely to meet up with so many from our year group. We may have aged, but you can still see the ‘girl’ in our faces.” If you are from the Classes of 1950, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000 or 2010, please contact us for information regarding your reunion next year at oga@stmarys.wa.edu.au

1969 REUNION

1979 REUNION

1989 REUNION

1999 REUNION

2009 REUNION

UPCOMING EVENTS OLD GIRLS’ DAY 2020 Saturday 4 April 2020

BOARDERS’ REUNION Friday 21 August 2020

Join us to celebrate the OGA’s 95th Anniversary and the presentation of the Women of Distinction Awards. A special invitation is extended to our Old Girls from the Classes of 1940, 1950, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000 and 2010, who are celebrating their significant anniversaries since leaving St Mary’s.

Next year we celebrate 50 years of boarding at our Karrinyup campus. What better way to mark this occasion than with a Boarders’ Reunion! Save the date.

FIDELITER Old Girls

To register your details for the above events or to update your details please contact us at oga@stmarys.wa.edu.au

COMBINED INDEPENDENT GIRLS’ SCHOOLS GOLF DAY

CIGS GOLF TEAM

Magnificent weather greeted us at Cottesloe Golf Club for the Combined Independent Girls’ Schools (CIGS) Golf Day. We came fourth on a countback from St Hilda’s - the same score and one point behind second so it was a very close-run affair. PLC were the winners for the day. Our counting pairs were Marg Lutz (Prichard ’66) with Lynne Malone (Eakins ’66), and Mandy Hepburn (Wilhelm ’85) with Amanda Lekias (Young ’85). In the novelties, we blitzed the field with Marney Pearse (Brown ’72) and Lynne Malone (Eakins ’66) winning the 'Nearest-thePin' prizes. We were very pleased to have Kay Watts (’69) from the Gold Coast join us and encourage other years to co-ordinate their reunions with the golf day, so other Old Girls who play will make the journey to join us. A double reason to come to the West! Next year’s Golf Day will be held on Monday 19 October at Karrinyup Country Club. Lynne Malone (Eakins ’66)

OLD GIRLS RETURNING TO SCHOOL

uring the 2019 school year over 60 Old Girls have returned to St Mary's to share their experiences and advice with current students at a variety of events and activities. Old Girls have chatted to Year 11s and 12s at Insight Breakfasts, presented break-out sessions at the Year 10 Careers Conference, career speednetworked with Year 11s at the Science Café, shared their experiences at specific classes and co-curricular groups, coached sporting teams, tutored, and even sung and played with the St Mary’s bands and choirs. These events and interactions provide our students with an opportunity to gain invaluable, real-world insight into life after St Mary’s, connect with others who have walked in those brown shoes, and strengthen their networks and ultimately, our St Mary’s community.

Thank you to all the Old Girls who volunteered their time and expertise. If you would like to share your experiences and knowledge with our students in 2020 please contact us at oga@stmarys.wa.edu.au.

FIDELITER Old Girls

O L D G I R L P RO F I L E S P U R S U I N G T H E I R PA S S I O N Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life. Is this really the crux of choosing a career? How do you turn your passion into a career? We asked three of our Old Girls about following their passions, whether they turned theirs into a career, and life after St Mary’s.

W I T H O L D G I R L LAUR E N S H E P H E RD ( ’ 9 4 )

CLASS OF: 1994

in 60 seconds

TERTIARY EDUCATION: Diploma of Event Management and an Advanced Diploma of Hotel Administration, Edwards College, Perth CURRENT ROLE: Corporate and Community Partnerships Co-ordinator, Guide Dogs WA WHO WOULD BE YOUR DREAM DINNER GUEST? Dinner with Sir David Attenborough, in the tropical rainforests of Madagascar, sounds pretty amazing to me! MUSIC YOU ARE CURRENTLY LISTENING TO? With two daughters, it’s rare that I have a say in what we’re listening to! On the odd occasion that I do, I’m loving Freya Ridings and Dean Lewis now. FAVOURITE SUBJECT AT SCHOOL? Italian was definitely a stand out and it came in very handy when I lived and worked in Italy for 12 months. SUM UP YOUR EXPERIENCE AT ST MARY’S IN 3 WORDS: Memorable, Influential, Supportive

here are many of us out there who would love to get paid for working with dogs. For Lauren Shepherd this is a dream come true. Not only does her current role allow her to be surrounded by dogs all day but it also combines her love of helping others through the not-for-profit sector.

LAUREN SHEPHERD 40

FIDELITER OLD GIRL PROFILES

(’94)

St Mary’s always had a great sense of community. The days when the whole school came together for events, sports carnivals, concerts or fairs are great memories for me.

here has life after St Mary’s W taken you and did you follow your passion? Was there a defining moment when you decided on the pathway you wanted your career to take?

A: The thought of traditional employment in the form of a 9-5 desk job never really excited me. I knew fairly early on that all I wanted to do was travel or work with animals, or ideally both. My Hotel Administration and Event Management qualification enabled me to travel and get paid for it. It was almost too good to be true. Years later, my qualifications and experience provided the skills needed to move into the not-for-profit (NFP) sector. My first NFP job was at the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation where I saw how my role benefited the Foundation and really made a difference. This was definitely a defining moment for me. Fourteen years on, I’m working with Guide Dogs WA, a cause that combines my love of dogs and helping others. I’m able to make a difference in the lives of both children and adults living with low vision, disability or illness, and to see first hand the ways in which our dogs are truly changing lives. It really is a perfect fit for me. It takes over two years and costs more than $50,000 to raise and train a Guide or Assistance Dog. In my role as Corporate and Community Partnerships Co-ordinator, I work with the community and private sectors to develop rewarding partnerships and sustainable funding for our training programs. Without them, our training programs simply wouldn’t exist.

ow do you think St Mary’s prepared you for H life after school?

A: St Mary’s gave me confidence and endless opportunities, which definitely helps you define where it is you want to go with your life after school.

Who has been your biggest influence?

A: Subconsciously, I think my family have had the biggest influence on me. I’ve never been afraid of hard work, which I think largely comes from watching my Dad work hard, running a third-generation family business. My love of animals, and dogs in particular, definitely came from family. I believe a person’s character can be judged by their treatment of animals. I can’t remember a time in

my life where I haven’t had a dog. As a child, our dog was very much a member of the family (sometimes even more so than me!). And I’d have to say my empathy for those less fortunate (humans and animals included) and a strong desire to give back has come from Mum. As a family, we donated to a number of different causes and always sponsored children in Africa. At Christmas there was always a trip to the wishing tree to buy a gift for a child less fortunate. Both are traditions I still follow today.

hat accomplishment are you most W proud of?

A: It probably sounds cliché, but definitely my family. My husband, Ryan, and I have two daughters, Charlie (11), and Rosie (9). As a parent, I’m conscious of the way my actions influence our children. I’m determined to raise strong girls who know they’re capable of anything. Just as my parents did for me, I’ll work hard to give my girls the same opportunities that I have had.

hat is your fondest memory of your W time at St Mary’s?

A: St Mary’s always had a great sense of community. The days when the whole school came together for events, sports carnivals, concerts or fairs are great memories for me.

ow do you think St Mary’s helped you H discover your passion?

A: St Mary’s presented me with endless opportunities to discover my strengths and a supportive environment to develop and pursue them.

o you agree with the statement D ‘Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life’? Why/why not?

A: One hundred percent, but you need to be prepared to work for it. I’m going to sound really old here, but I see it so often where there’s almost a sense of entitlement and a sense of urgency to get to the top overnight. Do the work, it’s part of the journey. Work out what it is that you want to do with your life and do whatever it takes.

FIDELITER OLD GIRL PROFILES

WITH OLD GIRL ARA SALOMONE (’01)

CLASS OF: 2001 (Original)

in 60 seconds

TERTIARY EDUCATION: TAFE Building and Construction, Bachelor of Environmental Design, Master of Architecture (Hons) CURRENT ROLE: Senior Associate of State of Kin and Director of AJCD WHO WOULD BE YOUR DREAM DINNER GUEST? Warren Buffet, Kanye West, Frank Gehry and Donald Trump! I feel like this would be an incredibly interesting dinner. MUSIC YOU ARE CURRENTLY LISTENING TO? Kanye’s Sunday Service FAVOURITE SUBJECT AT SCHOOL? Art, Italian, Drama, Media SUM UP YOUR EXPERIENCE AT ST MARY’S IN 3 WORDS: Challenging, Formative, Supportive

ARA SALOMONE 42

FIDELITER OLD GIRL PROFILES

(’01)

ra’s pathway after leaving St Mary’s wasn’t as straightforward as most, however, she always knew she wanted to be an architect, and nothing was going to get in her way. Ara has returned to St Mary’s numerous times to share with our current students how her determination, grit and perseverance got her to where she is today.

Where has life after St Mary’s taken you and did you follow your passion? Was there a defining moment when you decided on the pathway you wanted your career to take?

A: I took a while to complete my tertiary studies – I worked in the architectural field throughout my studies, starting with working for my Dad in his design studio. Over the years I worked at several other firms which broadened my understanding of architecture and building and the way that people other than Dad worked, which was invaluable in my learning experience. I think I always knew deepdown that I would end up in the field of architecture and design. Eventually, I completed my Masters in Architecture and took over Dad’s studio to make it my own with a small team. We have since evolved again and rebranded as State of Kin, which merged my design team with my husband’s family’s building team, and formed a conceptto-completion powerhouse. To be honest, I feel like there was no defining moment for me as such – it was always my ‘destiny’ to end up where I am now.

How do you think St Mary’s prepared you for life after school?

A: I think the most important preparation that St Mary’s provided for me was an essential foundation to perform with discipline and order, to be self-managed and selfdriven and to then work with others. It also brought out the ‘grit’ in me, the courage and resolve, the strength of character.

Who has been your biggest influence?

A: My Mum and Dad! Actually, my whole family really. I’ve definitely absorbed particular personality traits, skills and understandings through them, which have shaped my path. My mother’s passion, her kind heart and empathy for the cause of others, the ways she cleverly uses her power as a woman and her determination to achieve her goals are unlike anyone I’ve met. My father’s connection to the profession meant that I was exposed to building sites, plans and tools of design from birth, which clearly stuck!

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

A: The completion of State of Kin’s flagship residence which is also my own home – it was the first large scale residential project that my husband and I worked on together. It was a huge personal achievement and a milestone for our new company which made me incredibly proud of the team. We opened the house to the public as part of the Open House Perth weekend last year and the turnout of visitors was overwhelming, with nearly 2000 people coming through across the two days.

What is your fondest memory of your time at St Mary’s?

A: Having lunch in Ms Karmelita’s office every day (LOL). This is a really hard one. I attended St Mary’s for 12 years and have so many amazing memories, some of them probably not appropriate for this spread. Hence me having a lot of lunches with Ms K!

How do you think St Mary’s helped you discover your passion?

A: I think I always knew deep-down that I would end up in the field of architecture and design. I think St Mary’s really helped me to stay on track to achieve the bricksand-mortar basis that I needed to get there. I have to admit that as a student, I was quite easily distracted, and St Mary’s really worked hard to pull me back into line to help me get to university and give me the skills I needed once I got there!

What advice would you give to the current St Mary’s Girls?

A: Try to ensure that you surround yourself with people who are inspirational, energising and motivating for you. Sometimes, even if the work you are doing is filled with love and energy, if you are working with people who are not on the same page, it can be diminished.

I think I always knew deep-down that I would end up in the field of architecture and design. I think St Mary’s really helped me to stay on track to achieve the bricks-and-mortar basis that I needed to get there.

FIDELITER OLD GIRL PROFILES

W I T H O L D G I R L E M I LY C H E Y N E ( ’ 0 8 )

in 60 seconds

CLASS OF: 2008 TERTIARY EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science and Economics, ANU CURRENT ROLE: Partnerships Manager, Melbourne Rebels Rugby Union WHO WOULD BE YOUR DREAM DINNER GUEST? Andrew Demetriou MUSIC YOU ARE CURRENTLY LISTENING TO? Dark Knight Rises instrumental score FAVOURITE SUBJECT AT SCHOOL? Economics SUM UP YOUR EXPERIENCE AT ST MARY’S IN 3 WORDS: Entertaining, Educational, Enthralling

hen you think about a career in sport, elite athlete automatically comes to mind and perhaps not the many other sportsrelated career options available. While studying at Australian National University Emily’s eyes were opened to a world of possibilities within sports-related fields and ultimately led to her current position with the Melbourne Rebels Rugby Union team.

EMILY CHEYNE 44

FIDELITER OLD GIRL PROFILES

(’08)

Where has life after St Mary’s taken you and did you follow your passion? Was there a defining moment when you decided on the pathway you wanted your career to take?

What is your fondest memory of your time at St Mary’s?

A: The lifelong friends I made during my eight years at St Mary’s.

A: In a roundabout way I did follow my passion. At school I always loved sport; however, I was never a stand-out athlete. I didn't think about sports management as a career until I became heavily involved in extracurricular sporting activities whilst studying at the Australian National University. Whilst completing my studies I began volunteering my time with local sports clubs and professional clubs. On completion of my studies I signed up for a game-day customer service volunteer opportunity at the Canberra Raiders (NRL), and after a few weeks I was asked if I could come and do some casual work for them, which ended up leading to full-time employment. This was a fortunate opportunity that put me on my current career path.

A: In my current role I am responsible for managing all contracted sponsors deliverables and relationships, sourcing and nurturing prospects to convert them to sponsors, as well as managing commercial revenue strategy for commercial partnerships, digital content, licensing, and hospitality and events.

How do you think St Mary’s prepared you for life after school?

A: St Mary’s prepared me incredibly well, not that I realised it at the time. One of the most important lessons I learned was in a Year 5 library class at St Mary’s, where we homed in on focus questions for research. Little did I realise at the time how important that would be in both university and working in a commercial role in sport.

Who has been your biggest influence?

A: Definitely my Mum. She’s always incredibly positive, and nothing fazes her.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

A: Completing a solo 100km race in the Blue Mountains and managing to come third. I pushed myself to the limit, both physically and mentally that day, having obtained an injury early on. I learned a lot about myself, and it definitely helped guide me to where I am today.

How do you think St Mary’s helped you discover your passion?

A: St Mary’s gave me the opportunity to try and participate in a range of sports. I always looked forward to Physical Education, and interhouse and interschool competitions and dreamt of being an athlete. Had I not had those opportunities at school I would not have become involved in club sport and most likely, would not be where I am today.

What does your current role entail and what does a typical day look like?

There's no such thing as a typical day for me, with every day as diverse and varied as the next. One day I'll be running around the stadium ensuring signage is in place and sponsors are happy, the next day I could be meeting with Rugby Australia and talking through commercial strategy and guidelines, and the day after I could be giving a presentation to a sponsor. I am fortunate to be working in a job that I love; however, I am conscious that as I do love my role, it can consume me and can lead to burn out. I do need to make sure I get away from work each day, clock-off, zone-out and make time for myself. While I’m always looking to grow myself and team professionally, I need to grow myself personally, and learning to separate myself from work is key to this growth.

St Mary’s gave me the opportunity to try and participate in a range of sports. I always looked forward to Physical Education, and interhouse and interschool competitions and dreamt of being an athlete. Had I not had those opportunities at school I would not have become involved in club sport and most likely, would not be where I am today.

FIDELITER OLD GIRL PROFILES

NEWS FROM OLD GIRLS EVERYONE LOVES to know what their contemporaries are up to. Please send us news of what you are doing now, as well as photographs. Email: oga@stmarys.wa.edu.au Telephone: (08) 9341 9132 By post: Old Girls’ Association, St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School, PO Box 105, Karrinyup WA 6921

Since 2015 BETH BUCHANAN (Mickle ’48) has been making dolls for the nursery at the Cambodian Children’s Fund. Over the years, other members of St George’s Cathedral have also joined her. The nursery has been very short of toys and the dolls have been greatly appreciated. St Mary’s has been supporting CCF with an annual service-learning trip with Christ Church Grammar School every December since 2013.

ABOVE: An impressive line-up of just a few of the knitted dolls.

LESLEY RONEY (Williams ’61) still meets with a group of eight St Mary's Old Girl boarders for lunch every two months. Three of their group are still working! L-R: Gloria Posselt (’61), Jenny Pohl (Kirby ’61), Leonie Coxon (Smith ’61), Kaye Scott (’61), Lesley Roney (Williams ’61) and Cate Doncon (Sutton ’61). Penny Langley (Smith ’61), Peta Charlebois (Norris ’61) and Helen Jameson (Breakell ’61) could not attend the recent lunch.

Congratulations to GEORGINA WIGLEY (’68) who has just completed her Master of Education (Studies of Asia) from Flinders University. She attributes her lifelong learning as a by-product of her St Mary’s schooling.

FIDELITER News from Old Girls

DARINKA BROOKER (Vuletic ’78) began working in her family's hairdressing business after finishing at St Mary's. She ran this with her father, until she married Don Brooker and had two children, Jacinta and Kieran. Darinka and her husband have owned a camping and sports wholesale business for the last 30 years and are close to retiring to their holiday home in Broome to be nearer to their children, who have chosen careers in the Kimberley.

MEGAN ANDERSON (’85) worked as a journalist for more than two decades before making a career shift into illustration about six years ago. She was a feature writer for The West Australian, and a travel writer for various publications around Australia, before returning to Perth from Sydney to take the job as editor of Scoop magazine. Her love affair with dogs was simmering away in the background, and when she turned her hand to painting, it was canines – and their people – that grabbed her attention. She started her online print shop, Hangdog Art, in 2013, featuring whimsical artworks with a doggish theme. She still dabbles in journalism, and her new book, Word of Dog, combines both writing and illustration. She describes it as a waggish picture book for grown-ups, in which interview transcripts with her canine creations are featured.

Earlier this year our Year 12 students were treated to a special presentation from FIONA HICK (Cresswell ’91). She chatted with the girls about her experiences since leaving St Mary's and the advice that helped her. Fiona was awarded the Outstanding Woman in Resources Award from the Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA. She is the Vice President Strategy Planning and Analysis at Woodside Energy. Fiona is a role model for others within the industry, mentoring female engineers and other industry professionals and providing particular support to women returning from leave and those taking on larger roles.

ABOVE: Included in the photo from top left are Rosalindynata Gunawan (’05), Kiki Richir (Wijaya ’06), Cherry Karnadi (’05), Mita Soedarjo (’05), Yumiko Tsutsumi (Nakajima ’05) and Holly Ho (Xu ’05).

Congratulations to YUKO IWATA (Nakagawa ’05) and her husband, who celebrated their wedding on 19 October at the beautiful Bulgari Resort in Bali. It was a wonderful occasion, especially as Yuko was able to reunite with some of her fellow St Mary’s Old Girls.

FIDELITER News from Old Girls

SAMANTHA POULSEN (’07) has become the 25th woman, and just the second Australian woman, to cross the North Channel (Ireland to Scotland), one of the most difficult open water swims in the world. She completed the gruelling 33.7km swim in 11 hours and 12 minutes, just a year after completing her swim across the English Channel. Samantha braved freezing water, strong currents, jellyfish stings and a shoulder injury to raise funds for the Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity for health care. As a respiratory physiotherapist in the intensive care unit at St Thomas' Hospital, Sam works with critically unwell patients, whose lives have been turned upside down by sickness. "The staff who work in the NHS put their hearts and souls into the work they do, and I'm inspired by them on a daily basis," she said. "I am raising funds to help ease the journey of patients and their families through these incredibly trying times, as well as for ongoing staff development and training." Well done and congratulations, Samantha! ABOVE L-R: The Hon Dave Kelly MLA, Kira Molloy and Professor Lyn Beazley at the WAITTA Incite Awards.

KIRA MOLLOY (’17) has had an extremely busy year. Not only has she relocated to Singapore to take up a New Colombo Plan Scholarship but she has also been awarded a Google Women Techmakers Scholarship, the WAITTA Incite Award for the Best Undergraduate Tertiary Student Project of the Year and iAward’s Best Undergraduate Project of the Year. She also represented Australia at the APICTA awards in Vietnam in November.

HANNAH NORDMANN ('11) moved back to Port Hedland after finishing at St Mary’s and started a traineeship to become a ranger and completed a Certificate IV in Local Government (Regulatory Services). Two years later, Hannah headed to the UK to work and travel, and spent four months in a camper van, travelling around Europe and four months back-packing in South East Asia. She returned home on Christmas Eve 2018 and is now back in her old position as a ranger. The best decision Hannah ever made was to go overseas and she would recommend it to anyone thinking about it. Congratulations to MELANY SMART (’18) who has won the Women's Cross Country Freshman of the Year at the PAC-12 Championships in San Francisco. Melany received an athletics scholarship to attend the University of Washington in Seattle. She is majoring in neuroscience with a minor in nutrition.

FIDELITER News from Old Girls

ALICE WALTON (’18) moved to the United Kingdom after accepting an offer at the University at Durham to read English and History. It has been a whirlwind couple of months as she gets settled in a new country!

VALE IT IS WITH SADNESS THAT WE RECORD THE DEATHS OF THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS OF THE ST MARY’S COMMUNITY.

FLORA (TRILLI) BOBONE (GAMBA ’42)

JULIE MCGREGOR (NUNN ’65)

PAMELA (PAM) JOAN PILLAGE

7 JUNE 1925 – 15 MARCH 2019

17 OCTOBER 1948 – 19 SEPTEMBER 2019

13 NOVEMBER 1940 – 4 SEPTEMBER 2019

Flora was born in Italy and came to live in Perth from a very young age. She attended St Mary’s in West Perth from 1930 to 1940, leaving school in Year 10. Flora’s mother, Madame Gamba, worked at St Mary’s as a teacher of languages. The sketch above is of Flora as a 13 year-old and was drawn in 1938 by artist F V Hall.

Julie’s childhood was spent in the historic town of Evandale in Tasmania; however, she moved with her family to Western Australia in the early 1960s and attended St Mary’s between 1962 and 1965. Upon completing her Leaving Certificate, Julie attended Claremont Technical School where she studied for a secretarial diploma. Julie’s first job was with Princess Margaret Hospital where she worked for several years in the Poisons Information Centre and was later promoted into a senior role within the department. After moving home to Tasmania, Julie worked at the ABC in a secretarial capacity. Once again, her role developed and grew over the years, to the point where she was producing radio programs.

Pam worked at St Mary’s for over 30 years as a piano and classroom teacher, and music administrator, and was an integral part of growing the St Mary’s Music Department to where it is today. She built strong relationships with her students, especially the boarders, who saw her as a mother figure. The impact she had on St Mary’s music, particularly in those early years, was significant.

Flora had a talent for art, and after leaving St Mary’s, went to Perth Technical College where she studied graphic design. She then found employment at Gibney’s advertising agency where she worked for a number of years. After World War II, Flora worked for Aherns, where she drew fashion illustrations used for newspaper advertisements. These sketches are now quite sought after and have appeared for sale at art auction houses in Perth. Flora was an honorary member of The Wembley Ware Society, where she designed and painted china tableware for many years. She continued to paint and sell her art for most of her life. Flora attended many St Mary’s Old Girl events over the years, especially the West Perth reunions, where she loved to catch up with friends and reminisce. She generously donated several items to the St Mary’s archives, including a uniform brochure from the late 1930s. Flora passed away in March 2019.

Julie was always a fabulous cook, so it was no surprise to those who knew her that she became involved in a catering business, but it was running a cattle farm in Bracknell, just outside of Launceston, with her husband Ian, that was to be the most significant role Julie would undertake. Julie and Ian lived and worked on 'Glenstrae' for over 30 years. A lasting legacy of Julie is her involvement with the World Heritage-listed Woolmers Estate, where she was instrumental in establishing the Festival of Roses which attracts many visitors who enjoy the sights and smells of over 5000 individual plants from 30 rose families.

Pam’s love for music was first nurtured in her childhood while living with her grandparents. She learnt piano from a lady who happened to live two doors down from where Pam lived, and from then on, music always played an important part in Pam’s life. At 19, Pam married Kenneth Charles Pillage, her husband of 40 years, and they had a son, Darrell, and a daughter, Allison. The family lived in various locations, moving around for work opportunities. They eventually established their family home in Cloverdale. Pam was an accomplished music teacher and conducted many lessons from her home. Pam and Ken were involved in many musical concerts and Eisteddfod performances, for which both received high recognition. Pam’s music teaching qualities were recognised when she was offered a position at St Mary’s where she was well respected and loved. Pam spent her last weeks in the Palliative Care Ward at Kalamunda Hospital. It was fitting and a blessing that her son, Darrell, was with Pam when she went to her Lord. Dale Davies (Pam’s Cousin)

FIDELITER VALE

ARCHIVAL ANECDOTES

‘TOO MUCH ENERGY’ – NELLECK JOL-JACOBY OAM

he tenth child of fifteen children, born to a tulip farmer on 31 December 1931 in rural Holland, Petronella Johanna Hopman, known by her parents as Nellecka, was a child with ‘too much energy’. After surviving the German occupation of Holland during World War Two, Nelleck emigrated to Australia at the age of twenty-one. She couldn’t speak English and ended up working in menial jobs, before a chance swim at the Crawley Baths landed her a job teaching swimming and diving there. Her youthful love of gymnastics re-ignited, Nelleck started a gymnastics club for girls at lunchtimes run out of the YMCA. Spotted for her exceptional talent, she was selected for the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, but after travelling to Melbourne, she found she was unable to compete as she had not lived in Australia for five or more years. Although disappointed, the experience would generate a lifetime of coaching and training girls for Olympic and World Championship competitions. Nelleck’s return to Perth in 1957 saw her start the Swan Girls Gymnastics Club and her sister, Marita, arrive from Holland. The sisters were then approached by Mrs Theresa Macdonald (Principal 1957 – 1965) to teach gymnastics at St Mary’s. Nelleck embraced the position, teaching gymnastics and trampolining, running with the boarders in the mornings, and teaching swimming and diving at the Crawley Baths and the Beatty Park Aquatic Centre. Nelleck arranged for St Mary’s to hold a gymnastics display once a year at the Perry Lakes Basketball Stadium. Called the St Mary’s Circus, every student took part. Nelleck remembers that Diane Porter (Wardle ’60) said to her: "Mrs Jol, you kept me happily sane… you finally taught me how to do a forward roll!" The displays were a huge success and gained press coverage for St Mary’s as an innovative sporting school.

Nelleck was a charismatic teacher, inspiring girls of all sporting abilities to try and gain strength, posture, co-ordination, agility and confidence. She was hugely supported by Mrs Macdonald, who introduced the sporting camps at Point Peron, where gymnastics, trampolining, athletics, hockey, netball and fitness skills were practised. Nelleck would remain friends with many St Mary’s girls, including those she helped train to be Olympians, like Lyn Hancock-Walker (Hancock ’65). Nelleck would later receive the Medal of the Order of Australia, OAM, for service to women’s gymnastics as a coach, and was inducted into the Gymnastics Australia Hall of Fame. To the many St Mary’s Old Girls of the West Perth days, she would always be the lady who lived at Craigmore in a converted stable, who helped them to do the impossible, who convinced them to back themselves and have a go. The lady with the indecipherable accent and too much energy. Stephanie Neille, Archivist, with acknowledgement and thanks to Ronda Beck and Nelleck Jol-Jacoby, Oral History 2013

LEFT: Gymnastics in the School hall, 1959. Image courtesy West Australian Newspapers ABOVE: Lyn Hancock-Walker (Hancock '65) with Nelleck Jol at the St Mary's annual gymnastics display, St Mary's school hall 1961.

FIDELITER Archival Anecodtes

“The world is but a canvas

to our imagination.“ H E N R Y D AV I D T H O R E A U

ST MARY’S ANGLICAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL INCORPORATED 75 Elliott Road Karrinyup Western Australia PO Box 105 Karrinyup WA 6921 TELEPHONE: (08) 9341 9111 WEBSITE: www.stmarys.wa.edu.au CRICOS Number 00454C

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