Fideliter | Winter Edition 2021 by St Mary's Anglican Girls' School

FIDELITER ST MARY’S ANGLICAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL • WINTER EDITION 2021

CELEBRATING A CENTURY OF

inspiration

contents

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

FROM THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

FROM THE FOUNDATION Thanks to You: 2020 Donor Roll

10 CENTENARY FEATURE: St Mary’s Then and Now 12 ST MARY’S HERITAGE ICONS

COVER: Jan Jackson (Burton '64), photographed by her father, Doug Burton MBE, photographer for The West Australian Newspaper.

The photo was taken at Point Peron c1962, during a sports camp organised by Mrs Theresa Macdonald MBE, Principal 1957-1965. 2

FIDELITER CONTENTS

14 CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS Centenary Book Launch 2021 Bishop Riley Memorial Lecture Centenary Music Celebration 16 WELLBEING FEATURE 18 FIRST-CLASS RESULTS 400 Club 99ers 20 GENERAL EXHIBITION WINNERS

16 10 12 22 DESTINATIONS OF THE CLASS OF 2020 24 STAFF SPOTLIGHT

35 PARENTS' SOCIETY

48 ARCHIVAL ANECDOTES

36 OLD GIRLS' ASSOCIATION

50 CENTENARY SHOP

28 BOARDING

37 OLD GIRLS NEWS AND EVENTS

30 SENIOR SCHOOL

40 WOMEN OF DISTINCTION

32 JUNIOR SCHOOL

44 NEWS FROM OLD GIRLS

34 ST MARY'S AUXILIARY

46 VALE

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:

Rhys Dickinson and Amanda Kemp

editorial assistants:

Joan Karmelita and Jacinta Spry

design and production:

Dessein

feature photography:

Jacinta Spry

FIDELITER CONTENTS

FROM THE PRINCIPAL Mrs Judith Tudball

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” HELEN KELLER

could not think of a more fitting theme for the winter edition of our Centenary Fideliter. ‘Inspiration’ comes from the Latin word, inspirare, meaning ‘to breathe into’, and it quickly came to figuratively mean to excite, affect or guide. To guide St Mary’s in its Centenary year is humbling indeed. The School has inspired and breathed life into generations of girls and will continue to do so for many years to come. When I arrived at St Mary’s almost three years ago, I immediately sensed that there was something special about this school. Now, I strongly believe that the magic of St Mary’s is something that cannot be seen or even touched, as it lies in the hearts of everybody who has been involved with the School over the past 100 years. Our Old Girls often refer to it as an intangible ‘X-factor’, something that is difficult to articulate but easily felt. I witnessed this most recently when meeting with Grace Richardson (Snook ’48) at our Centenary Old Girls’ Reunion in Canberra. The most senior Old Girl to attend our east coast reunions, Grace spoke fondly of her time at St Mary’s in West Perth and shared her memories with our youngest attendees, Claire Reid (’19) and 2020 Dux, Oliva Nolan. The intergenerational love and affection for St Mary’s was on full display at this heart-warming event. Inspiration is firmly ingrained in our heritage and will continue into our exciting future. It has been present in the outstanding leadership of our School, commencing with The Reverend Charles Lawrence Riley in 1921, as well as in the School’s inspirational governance, which was shaped by the likes of Mrs Edith Cowan OBE, the first woman elected to parliament in Australia and a founding member of our Board of Governors. It comes to life in our successful Old Girls and in our current students, who inspire us daily with their can-do spirit. It is also visible in our generous donors, who selflessly support the School so that deserving young girls can enjoy the benefits of a St Mary’s education, and we see it in our exciting Masterplan 2019-2030, which promises to breathe new life into our teaching spaces and stimulate current and future generations of students and staff.

Already this year, we have witnessed several stirring Centenary events, such as the launch of our Centenary Book, A Place to Grow, the Centenary Old Girls’ Day and our moving Bishop Riley Memorial Lecture, delivered by Dr Craig Challen SC OAM, which was generously sponsored by the Foundation. And there are more exciting commemorative events to come, including our Centenary Week celebrations commencing on 14 September, and the inaugural performance of our Paul Jarmancommissioned Centenary choral and orchestral work, which will be premiered at Speech Night on Friday 3 December. This year, Speech Night will be held at HBF Stadium so that we can deliver a truly creative, collaborative and holistic celebration of girls discovering their best at St Mary’s for the past 100 years. I look forward to you joining me at this inspirational event. Thank you for everything that you have done and continue to do to inspire the St Mary’s community.

FIDELITER From the Principal

INSPIRATION

FIDELITER From the Principal

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

rom its foundation in 1921, St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School has been proud of its Anglican heritage. In his wonderful book, A Place to Grow, Richard Offen wrote, “It was only through the vision, drive and sheer hard work of one man that the Church of England Girls’ School, St Mary’s West Perth did not become a ‘nine-day wonder’, as did many small schools started in the first decades of the twentieth century. That man was the newly appointed Rector of St Mary’s West Perth, The Reverend Charles Lawrence Riley”. With the help of another member of his parish and St Mary’s School board member, the remarkable Edith Cowan OBE, Riley laid the foundations for the school we know today. From chapel attendance in the old St Mary’s West Perth, serving the community with ‘Willing Shilling’ drives and taking children from a local orphanage on picnic days in the 1920s and 30s, the School’s Anglican Christian values, ethos and practice have been central to all that we do. Even the School hymn and prayer have been used since 1921, which forms a lovely connection to our predecessors. Things might look a little different these days, but our Anglican foundations remain. The ‘new’ school chapel, which was consecrated in 1981, contains four stained glass windows from the original St Mary’s parish in West

FIDELITER From the CHAPLAIN

Perth. Girls attend chapel on a weekly basis in the Junior School and fortnightly in the Senior School, with many special celebrations. An annual whole school Patronal Eucharist is held in Hearn Hall to honour Jesus’ mother, Mary, after whom we are named. This, and the annual confirmation and welcome to first communion service, are always presided over by a bishop, reminding us of our close ties to the wider Anglican Diocese of Perth. Other special services include Old Girls’ Day, Grandparents’ Day, Anzac and Remembrance Days, a Junior School Easter service with a donkey, Holy Week, All Souls, Ash Wednesday, Ascension Day, and a Year 12 ‘Stations of the School’ service. We continue to serve the wider community in a variety of ways, with our Year 10 Anglicare Ambassadors playing a prominent role. This year, they will be making a video for the national Anglican Schools Association conference on a homelessness awareness event and sock collection drive, as well as their usual fundraising sleep-out. Our service trips to remote Indigenous communities will recommence soon and we long for the day when we can reconnect with some of our favourite international groups, such as the Cambodian Children’s Fund. All of this is based upon the example of Jesus who came, ‘not to be served, but to serve’. Reverend Richard Pengelley

FROM THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

n 1921, the world was recovering from the horrors and destruction of World War 1. The US-German Berlin Treaty was signed, the Irish Free State was declared, Crimea became part of the Soviet Union, Babe Ruth hit his recordsetting 138th career home run, and in Australia, Qantas took flight for the first time. Even closer to home, Edith Cowan OBE became the first woman elected to an Australian parliament and only the fourth female member of parliament globally. Fortunately, Mrs Cowan also agreed to be an inaugural member of the Board of Governors of the Church of England Girls’ School, St Mary’s West Perth. She was a woman close to 60 who was still passionately fighting for a more just society and for the education and rightful place of women and girls in our community. Previously, in 1894, Mrs Cowan helped found the Karrakatta Club, a group in which women "educated themselves for the kind of life they believed they ought to be able to take". The Karrakatta Club rallied behind the campaign for women's suffrage, the catalyst for non-indigenous women in Western Australia winning the right to vote in 1899. It was an outcome that ultimately enabled Mrs Cowan to become a Member of Parliament in Western Australia. Today, it is worth reflecting on the challenges Mrs Cowan overcame 100 years ago. When she was elected, the Members of Parliament refused to allocate her a women’s toilet. Their rationale was that they believed that there would not be another female Member of Parliament. At the March 2021 state election, the people of Western Australia elected their 100th female Member of Parliament. Thankfully, there are now female toilets in Parliament House.

ABOVE: Principal, Mrs Judith Tudball, and St Mary’s Archivist, Ms Stephanie Neille, attended a special wreath-laying service at the Edith Dircksey Cowan Memorial Clock Tower, King’s Park entrance, on 12 March 2021 in commemoration of Edith Cowan on the centenary of her election to the Parliament of Western Australia as the first female member of an Australian legislature. ABOVE LEFT: Edith Cowan OBE. Image courtesy State Library WA b4879399_7 BELOW: Elizabeth Carr ('81) AM with School Chaplain, Father Richard Pengelley.

One hundred years on from Mrs Cowan entering Parliament and sitting on St Mary’s Board, it is timely to ask ourselves, can we too be trailblazers in our own right? Are we doing everything that we can to make our society stronger and more just for all citizens? With the legacy that we have inherited at St Mary’s because of remarkable women like Mrs Cowan, what can we do to ensure that our community continues to progress and prosper? At our most recent Board of Governors strategic planning session, we agreed that it is still necessary to educate ourselves for the kind of life we believe we should take. The issues may differ, but the sentiment remains. For St Mary’s to be St Mary’s, our true north is when we live by the values of Fideliter and have our community at the heart of all that we do. Thank you for everything that you do to make our community stronger. Elizabeth Carr (’81) AM Chair, Board of Governors

FIDELITER From the Board of Governors

FROM THE FOUNDATION

n 2021, St Mary’s is proudly celebrating 100 years of helping girls to discover their best. Every student who passes through the gates of St Mary’s benefits from the exceptional generosity of past generations of benefactors, as well as those who support us today.

Making a gift to our Annual Giving in this Centenary year will help us support the next generation of inspiring women. We want to pave the way for our girls for the next 100 years by investing in their education and we invite you to join us by making a gift online at www.stmarys.wa.edu.au/giving.

In May, we were delighted to invite our wonderful donors to St Mary’s for our Thanks to You reception. It was truly heart-warming to see the St Mary’s spirit shine through in 2020 and I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all who supported the School amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. This was best highlighted by the volume of donations we received for the School’s Fee Relief Fund, which was established to help St Mary’s families financially impacted by the pandemic. It was also our pleasure to introduce our new Director of Philanthropy, Jacinta Sirr-Williams. Jacinta has joined us from the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, where she managed their extremely successful Annual Giving program. She has fundraised in the higher education sector for Edith Cowan University, as well as Western Australia’s most trusted charity, Guide Dogs WA. I encourage you to contact her on (08) 9341 9120 or jsirrwilliams@stmarys.wa.edu.au to welcome her to our St Mary’s community. It is with great sadness that the Foundation learnt of the passing of two influential figures, Ron Farris and Lindsay Palmer. Ron, who served as the Foundation’s inaugural Chair and Trustee, was among St Mary’s most generous benefactors and spearheaded several significant fundraising campaigns that supported the development of our campus buildings. Lindsay joined the Establishment Committee of the Foundation in 1987 and served as Senior Vice Chairman for 15 years. He was also a Fellow of the Board of Management of the Foundation. The St Mary’s community extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of Ron and Lindsay. By now, you would have received correspondence about our 2021 Annual Giving campaign. I would like to take this opportunity to say that your gift, regardless of its size, is vital to our future of providing an inspiring education for our girls. On behalf of the Board of the St Mary’s Foundation, thank you for your ongoing support. Marlene Carter (’63) Chair of the St Mary’s Foundation

FIDELITER From the Foundation

THANKS TO YOU

2020 DONOR ROLL

St Mary’s extends its gratitude to everyone who supports our vision to be a leader and innovator in the education of girls. It is our aim to provide the very best learning environment for our students today and in the future. The donors listed in maroon have supported St Mary’s for five or more consecutive years and are recognised as members of the Fideliter Society. This Donor Roll records the names of donors who have supported St Mary’s between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2020.

SCHOLARSHIP FUND, BUILDING FUND, LIBRARY FUND AND THE 2020 FEE RELIEF FUND A • Helen Adams • Linzey Allinson • Christine Antoine • Appleby Family B • Rodney and Lyn Baker (Price ’74) • Shannon Baker • Wendy Barnao • Bronwyn Barnes • Glenn and Lisa Barrett • David Bean • Adrian Beck • Bonwick Family • Ann Boyer • Krinks Family • Brades Family • Paul, Victoria and Lilia Bradley • Mark and Sandra Brennan • Brindal Family • Burbridge Family • Vanya Burton • Paul and Wendy Butler • Buzynski Family C • Carey Family • Elizabeth Carr (’81) • Marlene Carter (’63) • Virginia Christie • Civitico Family • Cordell Family • Leonie Coxon (Smith ’61) • Crabb Family • Jane Crisp • Jaslyn Cullen (Gibson ’94) • George Cyprian and Family D • Daley Family • Sheevaun Darby • Anita Daw • Amy Dawson (Fraser ’94) • De Mattia Family • Evelyn (Patricia) Dodson • Crystal Durman E • Peter Evans F • Feng Family • Debbie Fitzgerald • Flemming Family • Mr and Mrs Frederic G • Gibb Family • Rodger and Judith Gibson • Gabriella Giglia • Gillmore Family • Jane Gillon • Linda and Rudi Gracias • Griffiths Family • Gurgone Family

H • Cheryl Haak • Hancock Family • Ian and Kerrie Hardy • Fiona Harris • Haydar Family • Marjorie Heaney (Long ’65) • Erica Herron • Hicks Family • Lybus Hillman (Manning ’65) • Dana Hlavacek • Lynda Hocking • Holdaway Family (Eastwood ’87) • Michelle Houwen • Elizabeth Howson • Ray Hyslop for Helen Judge I • Iacobelli Family • Ireland Family J • Margaret Jago (Parker ’72) • Deborah Jarman • Johnson Family • Johnston Family (’08 & ’12) K • Joan Karmelita • Leo Kelly and Marlene Downing • Kemp Family • Kercheval Family • Knight Family • Koranis Family M • Mary Ellen MacDonald, in memory of Kerensa • Lorrie Maley (Rowledge ’33) • Scott Maney • Markey Family • Martino Family • Steve and Sandra McAlpine • McCuaig Family • McManis Family • Meyer Family • Miles Family • Millett Family • Jane Milloy • Molloy Family • Moncrieff Family • Muir Family N • Vicki Neil • Stephanie Neille P • Nandika Palaniappan • Palmer Family • June Pannell • Joan Parke • Peel Family • Anne Pesic (Nicolaou ’91) • Phan Family • Jo Philpott (’78) • Nick and Corrinna Politis • The Rev Joyce Polson (Deac.) • Elizabeth Powley • Price Family • Lesley Prowse

R • Spiro and Natalie Raftopoulos • Ramel Family • Louise Richardson (Kelly ’85) • Alyx Robinson (’15) • Robinson Family • Bree Rosagro (Buxton ’98) S • Margaret Saunders • Indiana (’16) and Madeleine (’18) Scanlon • Jenny Scott (Lefroy ’62) • Glenn Scotter • Peta-Jane Secrett (Hogg ’98) • Dr Jenny Shaw • Desiree Silva • Spencer Family • Stout Family • Su Family T • Lynne Thomson • Thomson Family • Kate and Douglas Thomson • Rik and Debbie Thornton • Dana Trtica • Judith and Rod Tudball • Liam Twigger • Louise Tyson V • Sally van Rooyen • Vander Wal Family • Roger and Pam Veary • Vella, Jade and Sophie W • Sharon Warburton • Watson Family • Weerakody Family • Giles and Elspeth West • Stacey-Jane Willis • Michael and Leah Wright • Shu Yi Wu (’06) Z • Zamudio-Concha Family • 15 donors who wish to remain anonymous.

ENDOWMENT FUND The families of all new students in 2020 who contributed to the Foundation’s Endowment Fund, which provides for the long-term future of the School. INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIPS Two donors who wish to remain anonymous. REALISED BEQUESTS The Estate of the late Thea Bantock (’47). SPIRIT OF 2020 FUND Class of 2020 Year 12 families who made a donation to support St Mary’s students requiring financial assistance to participate in the School's co-curricular activities. STUDENT AWARDS AND PRIZES Donors who provide awards and prizes that recognise the outstanding achievements and service of students and Old Girls: • Estate of Kerensa Allason (’89) • Estate of Fay Bailey (’40) • Estate of Esmee Byatt (Templeton ’30) • Dr John Craig, in memory of Frances Craig MBE • Estate of Deborah Cook (Parker ’29, Head Girl) • Marilynn Freitag • From Jacqueline, Serena, Malcolm and Graham in memory of Helen Hyslop (Judge ’50, Head Girl) • Genevieve Irwin (Stone ’74) • Audrey Jackson AM • Joan Karmelita • Denise Lane (Marshall ’79) • Pamela Mathers • Ruth Phelps, in memory of Ruth Rowell (Robinson ’33) • Maria Stannage • St Mary’s Auxiliary • St Mary’s Old Girls’ Association • St Mary’s Foundation • Robyn Taylor • Lynne Thomson • Estate of Lady Treatt (Wilson ’32, Head Girl) • Western Australian Journal of Medicine

Every effort has been made to ensure this list is accurate. If an error has been made, please accept our sincere apologies and contact us on (08) 9341 9111 or email giving@stmarys.wa.edu.au so we can make sure it is corrected for the future.

FIDELITER From the Foundation

C E N T E N A RY F E AT U R E

ST MARY’S THEN AND NOW

SALLY HICKS

LIFE AS A ST MARY'S GIRL

then AND now

2021 ST MARY’S HEAD GIRL

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A

1920s ST MARY’S DAY GIRL During morning chapel at St Mary’s Church, we learn about the upcoming School Bazaar and the Barron Trophy Lifesaving trials with Mr Wells at the Crawley Baths, and Reverend Riley informs everybody that he has put up more blackboards in the Seniors Room. Our first class for the day is arithmetic, followed by English literature and language, where we study Tennyson’s “Morte d’Arthur”, grammar and Latin. During recess, we are responsible for supervising the Junior School girls’ play and spend much time untangling our skippy ropes. We are greeted with a test on the Wars of Roses, courtesy of Miss Hamilton in history, before trying our best to distract Reverend Riley during scripture. Getting him talking about the war usually does the trick! It is not uncommon to see Miss Dannatt walking around knitting lace while doing lunch duty and girls get in trouble for excessive running. Their mums will be upset if they get a ladder in their stockings! Following lunch, biology students visit Kings Park to complete technical drawings of specimens under the watchful eye of Miss Tothill. After school, we must practise piano and elocution (reciting “The Lady of Shalott” to Miss Fitzgerald’s exceptionally high standards) and complete our needlework homework. Compiled by St Mary’s Archivist, Stephanie Neille

10 FIDELITER Feature: ST MARY’S THEN AND NOW

It goes without saying that much has changed at St Mary’s over the past 100 years, but it is also interesting to note that many of my experiences are not dissimilar to those of my 1920s counterparts. The biggest difference between school life now versus 100 years ago would be how we utilise technology. I cannot imagine using blackboards in class, let alone watching Mrs Tudball install them, like Reverend Riley did. Now we have an amazing crew of maintenance and grounds staff who carry out repairs, and an entire IT team who deal with our endless technology requirements. Studying a language is compulsory for Year 7 and 8 girls, and now we have the choice of Italian, French or Japanese. I am grateful that we do not have to learn Latin! For a 1920s St Mary’s girl, recess and lunch seemed like the perfect time to show off their skipping skills. Nowadays, most girls enjoy playing sport in Dannatt Hall or sitting around their lockers or on the lawns with friends during breaks. If they are lucky, they might be eating something delicious from the SMafé. I must admit, however, that ladders in stockings are still an issue for most girls! St Mary’s girls were very lucky to go on excursions to Kings Park in the 1920s, but I feel we one-up them with our amazing Metricup facilities. Metricup is a great spot for our yearly camps. It is close to nature, but has all the luxuries, including hot showers and comfy bunk beds, for when we return from hiking, canoeing, surfing, or exploring nearby caves. While I am sure practising elocution and needlework was vital for St Mary’s girls 100 years ago, fortunately in 2021, we have the choice of a wide range of co-curricular activities, including sport, dance, drama, debating and so much more. The most important things, however, have not changed. Now, as then, we benefit from a rich, well-rounded education, taught by excellent teachers who are dedicated to seeing us discover our best.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A

HANNAH MANUEL

2021 SENIOR BOARDER

A typical day in the boarding house: curtains were not too great, so the sun usually woke us up. We had no doors, so the housemistress did not kindly and gently knock.

Similar to our 1970s predecessors, we awake to the forceful knocks of a housemother, who usually turns our lights on and stands there until she is satisfied that we are awake enough to get up for breakfast.

Breakfast: on some weekends, the tables had toast races to see who could wolf down the most. Our table held the record, 80 pieces of toast in one sitting for the table. It is interesting that you now have lots of different things for breakfast. We had no choice. It was the same for dinner and lunch. The kitchen staff did not get it when, after dinner, copious amounts of custard were requested. At lunchtime, all the boarders sat in the dining room. It was soup and rolls in winter. After dinner, it was prep in the school classrooms. No matter the weather, we would trudge across the lawns. On a Saturday, there was an inspection of the drawers before you were allowed out. Often, some kind-hearted soul would ruffle my drawers and I would be made to refold EVERYTHING! They thought it was funny.

Sourced from St Mary’s Memories, 2015

After school, we drag ourselves up the stairs in single file, sticking to the left (a lesson new boarders need to learn quickly to avoid being trampled) before the 5.00pm dinner dash. The food is always fantastic, and there’s no great desire for midnight feasts, although just as the 1970s boarders craved custard, we pine for Chef Eric’s iconic icecream. At 5.50pm, we head to our designated areas for prep. No matter the weather, the girls in Years 6 to 9 scurry across the lawn to the library and classrooms, while the older girls have the privilege of studying in their rooms. Lights out is always a frenzy, with younger girls banging and clanging their tech cupboards, making last-minutes phone calls home or to boys in other boarding houses. Certain aspects of boarding at St Mary’s might have evolved a little in 50 years, but what hasn’t changed is the sense of camaraderie and spirit that shines brightly in Anne Symington House.

FIDELITER Feature: ST MARY’S THEN AND NOW

then AND now

There were midnight feasts in the luggage room, with a plastic ice cream container, a knife and bottle of cream, whipping madly hoping it would thicken so you could slop it over the sponge cake that was smuggled in with other goodies in the ‘clean’ washing bag.

Breakfast is usually eggs, cereal, toast or Weetbix, but the best days are when there is something fancy like Eggs Benedict or waffles. Then follows the mad morning rush, with housemothers pleading with the younger girls to clean their rooms and strip their beds for washing on Wednesdays. Suddenly, the PA informs us that it’s 8.30am and time to leave the boarding house. However, most of us don't leave until a much more acceptable time of 8.44am.

LIFE AS A ST MARY'S GIRL

1970s BOARDER

C E N T E N A RY F E AT U R E

ST MARY’S THEN AND NOW

ST MARY’S HERITAGE ICONS OVER THE PAST 100 YEARS, THE EVOLUTION OF ST MARY’S ANGLICAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL HAS BEEN DOCUMENTED IN MANY WAYS. ARCHIVES FULL OF PHOTOS, KEEPSAKES, ALMERTA AND FIDELITER MAGAZINES, PLUS COUNTLESS OTHER PUBLICATIONS, INCLUDING OUR CENTENARY BOOK, A PLACE TO GROW, ATTEST TO THAT. HOWEVER, CURRENT STAFF AND STUDENTS INTERACT WITH SYMBOLS OF OUR SCHOOL’S EXTRAORDINARY PAST ON A DAILY BASIS, ALL OF WHICH HAVE THEIR OWN UNIQUE STORIES. IT IS OUR PLEASURE TO SHARE THE TALES BEHIND SOME OF ST MARY’S MOST TREASURED HERITAGE ICONS.

THE BELVEDERE On the roof of Craigmore, the Belvedere proudly stood. Craigmore was an enormous home that boasted tennis courts, stables, a ballroom and extensive gardens. The property, which took up the entire corner block of Kings Park Road and Outram Street in West Perth, was leased by St Mary’s from 1959 until 1966, as the site for its junior school, boarding facilities, gym and sporting grounds. Craigmore was demolished in 1967, and the Belvedere was relocated to 143 Forrest Street in Peppermint Grove, where it became a tea house by the swimming pool. When that property was sold, the Belvedere was kindly donated to St Mary’s and reconstructed on the Karrinyup campus in 2001. It has become a favourite place for small groups of girls to gather during breaks.

CHAPEL OF ST MARY Consecrated in 1981, the School’s Diamond Jubilee year, the Chapel of St Mary seats 250 students and was designed by architect, John Lidbury, with innovative ideas from Reverend Joyce Polson, who was Deaconess at the time. The Chapel is the choice of many Old Girls for their weddings and children’s baptisms.

12 FIDELITER Feature: ST MARY’S THEN AND NOW

STAINED-GLASS WINDOWS

The stained-glass windows in the School’s Chapel face east to capture the morning light. The windows in the north-east corner are from the original St Mary’s Church, West Perth. The window of St Mary was donated by boarders in memory of Mrs Margaret Rose Draper (Senior Resident Boarding House Mistress 1959-1966), and the window of St George was donated in memory of George Bacon Sweeting, a faithful vestryman to St Mary’s Church, West Perth. The window of St Mary and Child (pictured) honours the life and work of former Old Girl and Headmistress, Mrs Anne Symington. The window of St Mark was a gift from the Old Girls’ Association and is dedicated to the School’s founder, Bishop Charles Lawrence Riley. The lintel windows over the main doorway were commissioned in 1991 in memory of Mr Campbell Ernest Redenbach (member, Board of Governors 1959-1982, School Management Committee 1965).

THE EAGLE LECTERN The Eagle Lectern was originally donated to St Mary’s Church, West Perth by Mr Richard Paul Vincent (Lord Mayor of Perth 1909-1911) in memory of his wife, Mrs Mina Elizabeth Vincent, and dedicated by Archbishop Owen Leaver Riley in 1911. When the Church was demolished in 1980, the lectern was sold. As part of the School’s 75th Anniversary celebrations in 1996, the Old Girls’ Association set out to locate and purchase the lectern, which they presented to the School in 1998. Old Girls who attended St Mary’s in West Perth will remember being asked to deliver bible readings from the ‘heights’ of the Eagle.

GATES The main gates of St Mary’s were a gift to the School in 1974 from the Old Girls’ Association. In 1991, to mark the School’s 70th Anniversary and celebrate 21 years at Karrinyup, the Old Girls’ Association funded the building of the brick and iron front wall and south gates. Entering and exiting the School’s gates for the first and last time are significant milestones in the lives of all St Mary’s girls.

FAITH The statue of Faith was presented to the School in 2006 by the Old Girls’ Association in recognition of their 80th birthday in 2005 and the School’s 85th birthday. Sculpted by Owen Davies, Faith stands on a stone that formed the base of the font from St Mary’s Church, West Perth. On top of the stone is a piece of marble that came from the altar reredos at St Mary’s Church, West Perth. Named after the school motto, ‘Fideliter’, Faith symbolises a 17-year-old girl who is ready to leave school and find her place in the world. She often finds herself in costume, most notably on the Year 12s final day, and Junior School students have enjoyed swinging on her arm.

FRANCES CRAIG WISHING WELL The Frances Craig Wishing Well was named in honour of Mrs Frances Craig MBE (member, Board of Governors 1954–1958), who was instrumental in the improvement of the boarding houses at St Mary’s West Perth campus. Originally named ‘The Save the Children Fund Wishing Well’, it was located in the gardens of Kings Park, unveiled by HRH Princess Anne and dedicated to Mrs Frances Craig MBE in 1975. When it needed a new home and restoration work, Dr John Craig, son of Mrs Frances Craig MBE, facilitated the move of the wishing well to St Mary’s in 2011. Now it nestles amongst some of St Mary’s most beautiful trees and is a favourite lunchtime spot for students.

ABOVE: Leavers at the gate, 1987

FIDELITER Feature: ST MARY’S THEN AND NOW

CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS COMMENCE

CENTENARY BOOK LAUNCH

he School was a hive of activity on Saturday 20 February as more than 200 staff, students, Old Girls and distinguished guests flocked to the Chapel gardens for the first official event of St Mary’s 100th birthday celebrations, the launch of the School’s Centenary book, A Place to Grow.

editorial colleagues: “Our Centenary book, A Place to Grow, is not simply a timeline of St Mary’s history. It captures the essence of St Mary’s, which was and continues to be built on community, service and Anglican faith. It truly acknowledges the thousands of students, staff and families who have shaped the School’s spirit and culture.”

Guests perused stalls adorned with a variety of tempting Centenary-themed items, including stunning silver bangles, scented candles, skipping ropes and cuddly ‘Tom’ teddy bears, before they excitedly filed into the Lady Wardle Performing Arts Centre for the main event, a Q&A with respected Western Australian historian and A Place to Grow author, Richard Offen.

Guided by thoughtful questions from Old Girl and journalist, Karalee Katsambanis (Tilvern ’90), who donned her eye-catching leavers jumper for the occasion, the author regaled the audience with a variety of intriguing facts and entertaining tales that he had unearthed while writing A Place to Grow.

Principal, Mrs Judith Tudball, welcomed attendees and commended the efforts of Richard and his team of

Following the Q&A, guests returned to the Chapel gardens to enjoy afternoon tea and exchange their favourite memories of St Mary’s.

2021 BISHOP RILEY MEMORIAL LECTURE

ore than 700 people gathered in Hearn Hall on 23 June for the 2021 Bishop Riley Memorial Lecture, which was generously sponsored by the St Mary’s Foundation and headlined by 2019 Australian of the Year and Star of Courage recipient, Dr Craig Challen SC OAM, one of six cave divers who helped evacuate 13 members of a junior boys soccer team, who became trapped inside Thailand’s Tham Luang Nang Non cave in 2018.

14 FIDELITER centenary celebrations

St Mary’s Centenary Composer-in-Residence, Paul Jarman, set the tone for the event by conducting the Senior School Orchestra and Choir in a moving rendition of his commissioned orchestral item, The Cave of the Sleeping Lady, which was inspired by the 2018 cave rescue. Following the musical performance, Dr Challen had the already fascinated audience in the palm of his hand as he stepped them through every facet of the delicate rescue operation and shared the lessons he learned from that life-changing experience.

CENTENARY MUSIC CELEBRATION

aving already forced the postponement of the highly anticipated Evening of Eminence, the COVID-19 pandemic threatened to claim another of St Mary’s commemorative events, the Centenary Music Celebration. However, to everybody’s relief, the show went on and a capacity audience enjoyed an inspiring evening of music in the Lady Wardle Performing Arts Centre on 4 May. The concert sought to showcase St Mary’s incredible musical talents while highlighting the evolution of the School’s music program, which began in 1921 with only piano and singing lessons. Fittingly, the show opened with a performance by the Centenary Concert Band, comprising students from Years 9 to 12 and several Old Girls. The remainder of the evening featured impressive presentations by an array of Senior Ensembles, including the Senior Concert Band, Voices, Hi Fidelity, Big Band, Senior Strings, Hale St Mary’s Wind Ensemble, Hale St Mary’s Camerata, and Hale St Mary’s Symphony Orchestra. Attendees were also treated to a moving solo performance by Year 12 clarinettist, Sarah Bond, who executed Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet Movement 1 with aplomb. The School’s brilliant production team also kept the audience engaged during breaks, taking them on a visual journey through the School’s storied history.

The evening culminated in a stirring rendition of Handel’s Zadok the Priest, which was performed by a combined orchestra and choir. The piece, which has been performed at every British Monarch’s coronation since its composition in 1727, was selected to celebrate the St Mary’s community’s love of and commitment to music throughout the past 100 years.

FIDELITER centenary celebrations

W E L L B E I N G F E AT U R E

MIND, BODY AND SOUL

or 100 years, St Mary’s has been committed to helping girls discover their best. Through the vehicle of education, we have endeavoured to equip our students with the necessary skills to not only achieve excellence from an academic standpoint, but to become the best version of themselves. This year, our students have enjoyed a vast array of pastoral care programs designed to foster a respectful culture of care that encourages them to be equally courageous, curious, compassionate and confident. In February, our Year 8s embarked on a journey of self-discovery with the assistance of staff from social impact business, Enlighten Education. The students participated in an art therapy session, where they created journals that they could use to express their innermost thoughts and reshape their futures. Year 5 and 6 students enthusiastically embraced an opportunity to participate in a Be the Girl workshop coordinated by Magic Coat for Kids in March. The Polson Room was abuzz with intrigue as students learnt the art of putting on their magic CROWN – confidence, respect, optimism, willingness and nobility. The two-hour seminar focused on providing the girls with strategies to live more confidently, respect themselves and others, adopt an optimistic outlook even in the most difficult situations, and step outside their comfort zone in order to embrace opportunities.

EMPOWERING OUR GIRLS 16 FIDELITER Wellbeing feature

Leading by way of positive choices and actions was the theme of our Year 9 cohort’s Term 1 wellbeing activity. By participating in a range of fun games curated by mentors from yLead, the girls identified ways to inspire their classmates. The goal of the session was to promote collaboration, strengthen the year group’s bond and shift the perception that leaders can only be senior students or individuals bearing a badge. These are just a few examples of the many wellbeing initiatives that our girls enjoyed throughout Semester 1. They also participated in several empowering educational sessions. Our Year 8 girls attended two Respectful Relationships seminars alongside boys from our brother school, Hale, while Year 10, 11 and 12 students relished an opportunity to hear from the always engaging Paul Dillon, founder and director of Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA). St Mary’s staff have also benefitted from the School’s wellbeing initiatives. They started the year in high spirits after participating in a wellness day that had them trying their hand at a raft of challenging but rewarding activities, including cooking and gardening workshops, Japanese drumming, juggling, tai chi and much more. We have also been committed to providing our parents and guardians with a range of educational opportunities this year. In March, School Nurse Kathryn Flesher delivered an informative Protective Behaviours Education workshop to more than 50 Junior School parents and St Mary’s parents Wendy Hughes (’99), Magistrate of the Children’s Court, and Martyn Clancy-Lowe, Executive Manager of the Sex Offender Registry and Chair of the National Child Protection Register Unit, provided a compelling presentation on consent to a packed Lady Wardle Performing Arts Centre. Melinda Tankard Reist, one of Australia’s foremost experts in sexualisation, objectification, sexual exploitation and violence against women, addressed parents in April; Maree Crabbe, Co-founder and Director of the Australian violence prevention project, It’s time we talked, delivered a thought-provoking presentation in May; and Madonna King, an award-winning journalist, author and leader of public debate, delivered a live virtual talk on her latest book, Ten-Ager, to Junior School families in June.

THROUGH EDUCATION

FIDELITER Wellbeing feature

FIRST-CLASS RESULTS CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2020 ON YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS “Our 2020 Leavers are to be commended for their tremendous effort and exceptional achievements in a year of great uncertainty. I am immensely proud of the tenacity, positive attitude and school spirit demonstrated by our students. They rose to the challenges of 2020 and accomplished terrific academic outcomes while honouring their commitments to co-curricular, service and school activities, which are an important part of the fabric of St Mary’s. I wish the Class of 2020 every success and happiness in their future endeavours.” Mrs Judith Tudball, Principal

18 FIDELITER First-Class results

99ers This membership is for students who achieved an ATAR of 99.0 or over. This year we welcomed 13 members. Nimmat Grewal University of Western Australia Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice Direct pathway to the Doctor of Medicine UWA Lawrence Scholarship General Exhibition; Subject Exhibition (Biology); Certificates of Excellence (Biology, Chemistry and Human Biology); Certificate of Distinction Jennifer Hao University of Western Australia Bachelor of Biomedical Science majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice Direct pathway to the Doctor of Medicine General Exhibition; Certificate of Distinction Georgia McKerracher Paris Institute of Political Studies Bachelor of Arts Certificate of Distinction Judy Miao University of Melbourne Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Actuarial Studies Melbourne National Merit Scholarship Certificate of Distinction Adele Nicholl University of Western Australia Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) majoring in Engineering Science Direct pathway to Master of Professional Engineering UWA Engineering Scholarship Certificate of Distinction

Olivia Nolan Australian National University Double degree - Bachelor of International Security Studies and Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics Certificate of Excellence (Economics); Certificate of Distinction Catherine Pile University of Oxford Bachelor of Philosophy, Politics and Economics General Exhibition; Certificates of Excellence (English and Human Biology); Certificate of Distinction Aimee Ryan University of Western Australia Bachelor of Philosophy majoring in Engineering Science and Music General Studies Direct pathway to Master of Professional Engineering Certificate of Distinction Chelsea Tapscott University of Queensland Double degree - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) majoring in Chemical Engineering and Bachelor of Science majoring in Food Science and Technology Certificates of Excellence (Chemistry and Food Science and Technology); Certificate of Distinction

400 Club To become a member of the 400 Club, students require an ATAR over 96.7. This year we welcomed 17 members. Molly Addis University of Notre Dame Double degree - Bachelor of Marketing and Public Relations and Bachelor of Arts Certificate of Merit Giovanna Bongiorno Curtin University Double degree - Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Finance Curtin Excellence Scholarship Certificate of Distinction Brooke Boonlai University of Western Australia Double degree - Bachelor of Science majoring in Biochemistry of Nutrition and Master of Biomedical Science UWA Global Excellence Scholarship Isabella Campbell Murdoch University Double degree - Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences majoring in Animal Health and Animal Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Certificate of Distinction Michelle Edward Curtin University Bachelor of Applied Science majoring in Architectural Science Curtin Excellence Scholarship Certificate of Distinction

Monika Eyer University of Western Australia Bachelor of Philosophy majoring in Engineering Science and General Music Direct pathway to Master of Professional Engineering UWA Engineering Scholarship Certificate of Distinction Siddhi Hockenhull University of Western Australia Bachelor of Arts majoring in Media and Communications and Business Law Assured pathway to Law (Juris Doctor) Certificate of Distinction Haylee Jackson Curtin University Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) majoring in Computing Curtin Excellence Scholarship Certificate of Distinction Isabelle Kris University of Notre Dame Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Certificate of Excellence (Mathematics Applications); Certificate of Distinction Grace Mincherton University of Melbourne Bachelor of Biomedical Science Certificate of Distinction Chelsea Morphett University of Notre Dame Bachelor of Physiotherapy Certificate of Merit

first - class results

Heather Bytheway University of Western Australia Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice Direct pathway to the Doctor of Medicine at UWA UWA Fogarty Scholarship General Exhibition; Certificate of Distinction Sonya Emmett University of Western Australia Bachelor of Philosophy majoring in Analytical and Physical Chemistry Certificate of Distinction Olivia Engelhard Monash University Double degree - Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Global Studies majoring in International Studies Subject Exhibition (Business Management and Enterprise); Certificate of Excellence (Business Management and Enterprise); Certificate of Distinction Amy Frederic University of Western Australia Bachelor of Biomedical Science majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice Direct pathway to the Doctor of Medicine St Catherine’s College Residential Scholarship Certificate of Distinction

Sophie Pech University of Melbourne Bachelor of Arts majoring in Sociology and Anthropology Certificate of Distinction Orla Poole University of Notre Dame Double degree - Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Politics and International Relations Certificate of Distinction Miranda Reedy University of Western Australia Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Accounting and Finance Direct pathway to Law (Juris Doctor) Certificate of Distinction Alexandra Somerville University of Melbourne Bachelor of Fine Arts Certificate of Excellence (English); Certificate of Distinction Jessica Spreadborough University of Western Australia Bachelor of Science majoring in Engineering Science and Marine and Coastal Systems Certificate of Distinction Chloe Tan Curtin University Bachelor of Psychology Certificate of Distinction

FIDELITER First-Class results

GENERAL EXHIBITION WINNERS

first - class results

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR GENERAL EXHIBITION WINNERS

UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice

Bachelor of Biomedical Science majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice Direct pathway to the Doctor of Medicine

Direct pathway to the Doctor of Medicine

UWA Lawrence Scholarship

UWA Fogarty Scholarship

General Exhibition, Subject Exhibition (Biology); Certificates of Excellence (Biology, Chemistry and Human Biology); Certificate of Distinction

General Exhibition; Certificate of Distinction

HEATHER BYTHEWAY

ince graduating from St Mary’s, time has absolutely flown by, and it feels surreal that seven months ago I was still in Year 12. However, reflecting on my schooling, I now realise how many aspects of my education have shaped my current character. This year I have begun studying a Bachelor of Philosophy majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice with a direct pathway to Doctor of Medicine. While this has been hard work, I have been loving all aspects of university life so far and have found that I have much more time for non-academic pursuits. For me, this has been extremely fulfilling, and I have really been enjoying volunteering with various university organisations, such as Ignite Mentoring and Dr YES, in conjunction with my studies. However, I cannot reflect on where I am currently without expressing enormous appreciation for St Mary’s. The support given to me by all the staff has equipped me with the tools I need to thrive in the world outside of the school gates. To the Class of 2021 and all the younger years, I wish you all the best, and know that if you stay resilient and compassionate in these ever-changing times, you will succeed in whatever pathway you choose.

20 FIDELITER general exhibition winners

NIMMAT GREWAL

ourneying outside the gates of St Mary’s into the world of university and ‘adult life’ has, so far, truly been an adventure. University is very different from school; no longer are there bells telling you when to eat or move on to the next class, no longer do you need to attend classes in person and no longer will you see, and perhaps even wear, as much maroon! This surge in independence and decision-making, whilst empowering, has at times made me feel somewhat like a small fish in a big pond. The guidance from my amazing teachers, and the resilience and camaraderie instilled in me at St Mary’s, have prepared me to embrace this change by being a self-motivated learner. Currently, I am thoroughly enjoying studying Medicine at UWA, as well as playing social sport with friends, tutoring and volunteering with Dr YES. I am really looking forward to the next semester!

> 4 GENERAL EXHIBITIONS (Top 50 students in WA based on a five-subject average) > 2 SUBJECT EXHIBITIONS (Biology; Business Management and Enterprise) > 3 VET EXHIBITIONS (Community Services, Health and Education; Creative Industries and Tourism; Hospitality and Events) > 12 CERTIFICATES OF EXCELLENCE > 5 VET CERTIFICATES OF EXCELLENCE > 49 CERTIFICATES OF DISTINCTION > 37 CERTIFICATES OF MERIT

UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

Bachelor of Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Bachelor of Biomedical Science majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice

General Exhibition; Certificates of Excellence (English and Human Biology); Certificate of Distinction

General Exhibition; Certificate of Distinction

JENNIFER HAO

ince leaving St Mary’s, I have started a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, majoring in Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice, at UWA. It has been a sometimes pleasant and sometimes poignant journey, as I have gained certain freedoms and lost others. Although I miss the dedication of the wonderful teachers at St Mary’s, learning to be more selfsufficient has been an exciting challenge. There have been many perks of university life; a highlight has been joining the social Ultimate Frisbee team, ‘May the Frisbee with You’. However, I am still getting used to being allowed to go to the bathroom without having to ask for permission. My time at St Mary’s has left a profound impact on me and I am eternally grateful for the values, education and memories that will always stay with me.

CATHERINE PILE

n the lead-up to my departure for the University of Oxford in September, I’ve been working in various industries and enjoying the rest of my time in Perth. Over summer, I spent my time coaching sailors of all ages at ocean and river yacht clubs; it was great to be out on the water every day and rewarding to see them all develop so quickly. Since April, amongst preparing my travel arrangements with the ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions, I’ve been working full-time at Zenith Energy. Working in the fast-paced business industry in an office environment has been such an amazing experience so far. I’m definitely nervous to be moving so far from home and with so much uncertainty about when I’ll be able to return, but I’m still unbelievably excited to study at an overseas institution with such a rich history and culture and can’t wait to have some great new experiences.

FIDELITER general exhibition winners

first - class results

Direct pathway to the Doctor of Medicine at UWA

DESTINATIONS OF THE CLASS OF 2020

VET

first - class results

P AT

RT I F I C

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME

1 4 1 1 2 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1

TOTAL STUDENTS

EDITH COWAN UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Education Bachelor of Nursing Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Commerce University Preparation Course

2 1 1 1 4

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS

Bachelor of Arts Management Bachelor of Jazz Music Diploma of Music Industry

1 1 1 12

MURDOCH UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences Bachelor of Chiropractic Sciences Bachelor of Communications and Bachelor of Creative Media Bachelor of Criminology and Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences

1 1 1 2 5 1

TOTAL STUDENTS

22 FIDELITER Destinations of the Class of 2020

A N AT

99.90

ES AT

CURTIN UNIVERSITY

90.3

D ABOV

Bachelor of Advanced Science Bachelor of Applied Science Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Biomedical Science Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Computing Bachelor of Design Bachelor of Engineering Bachelor of Interior Architecture Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Bachelor of Nursing Bachelor of Pharmacy Bachelor of Physiotherapy Bachelor of Psychology Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Social Work

TOTAL STUDENTS

53%

D ABOV

30%

OF 90 AR

D ABOV

13%

OF 95 AR

D ABOV

10%

OF 98 AR

OF 99 AR

Our graduating students have achieved outstanding results, indicating the overall strength and academic depth of the 2020 cohort, and providing them with a large range of options for tertiary studies.

Bachelor of Applied Science Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Behavioural Science Bachelor of Behavioural Science Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Early Childhood Education Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Bachelor of Behavioural Science Bachelor of Education Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Behavioural Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Health Promotion and Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Marketing and Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Nursing Bachelor of Physiotherapy Bachelor of Science Tertiary Pathway Program

1 1 1 1 1 1

2 1 4 3 1 2

TOTAL STUDENTS

1 1 1 1 1 1

UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Bachelor of Advanced Computer Science Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Biomedical Science Bachelor of Environmental Design Bachelor of Philosophy Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science and Master of Biological Science Bachelor of Science and Master of Biomedical Science

1 10 1 5 10 1 6 9 1 1

TOTAL STUDENTS

UWA ASSURED PATHWAYS

Law Master of Professional Engineering Medicine

6 3 4

TOTAL STUDENTS

PERCENTAGE (%) OF STUDENT DESTINATIONS FOR 2020 Working/Gap Year/ Other TAFE/Other Technical Colleges

ATA R S TUDENT S

OTHER - INTERSTATE/INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITIES

Australian National University (ANU) Monash University Paris Institute of Political Studies University of Oxford University of Melbourne

University of Queensland

Bachelor of International Security and PPE (Politics, Philosophy and Economics) Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Global Studies Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of PPE (Politics, Philosophy and Economics) Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Biomedicine Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Design Bachelor of Fine Arts Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)

TECHNICAL COLLEGES

OTHER

TAFE

Gap Year Other/Exchange Working Unknown

TOTAL STUDENTS

Murdoch University University of Notre Dame

COURSE

TOTAL STUDENTS

Certificate 2 in Conservation and Land Management Certificate 3 and 4 in Fitness Diploma in Interior Design Diploma in Marketing and Communications Diploma of Fashion Design Diploma in Screen and Media

Edith Cowan University/WAAPA

16%

VET STUDEN TS

Curtin University

30%

University of Western Australia

17%

Interstate and International Universities

128

10%

1 1 1 1 1 1 6

TOTAL

1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 13

1 0 5 9 15

Congratulations]

FIDELITER Destinations of the Class of 2020

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

Welcoming In Term 2, Mrs Kellie Douglas began her new role as Head of Boarding at St Mary’s. With 20 years’ experience in the education sector, Mrs Douglas has an extensive background in boarding, having worked in boarding houses at The Rockhampton Grammar School and Rockhampton Girls’ Grammar School in Queensland, and at Great Southern Grammar in Albany, Western Australia. Mrs Douglas was most recently employed as Acting Head of House Years 9 to 12 and Acting Head of Year 8 at Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School in northern New South Wales. Prior to that, she was Head of Department, Future Pathways and Vocational Education, at Mt St Michael’s College in Brisbane. Mrs Jacinta Sirr-Williams joined St Mary’s as Director of Philanthropy in April, arriving from the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, where she held the position of Philanthropy and Annual Giving Manager. She replaces Mrs Linzey Allinson, who served the School with distinction for 14 years. Mrs Sirr-Williams has a broad background in philanthropy and fundraising, having previously managed fundraising portfolios for Edith Cowan University’s School of Education, School of Business and Law, and the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. She also had the pleasure of fundraising at one of the state’s most trusted charities, Guide Dogs WA. Ms Megan Crust joined St Mary’s in April from not-for-profit disability organisation, Ability WA, where she was General Manager Marketing and Communications. Ms Crust was previously Director of Communications at St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls, and has extensive experience in marketing and communications at a senior level in the resources and utilities sectors. She is excited to share all the School’s wonderful stories and achievements with its engaged community.

Ms Erica Herron, previously Dean of Students, commenced in a new Dean of Boarding role to provide executive oversight of boarding. Ms Herron, who has a considerable background in boarding, is working closely with Head of Boarding, Mrs Kellie Douglas, to support and strengthen our vibrant boarding community.

Announcing

Following Ms Herron’s change in role, Mrs Rebecca Payne, previously Associate Dean of Students and Head of Year 12, assumed Dean of Students responsibilities, while also retaining her Head of Year 12 position for 2021.

Finally, Ms Felicity Monck, Head of Psychology Services, embraced an additional role as Associate Dean of Students and Wellbeing.

Congratulating Miss Ines Leal, Science Department Laboratory Technician, was recently awarded a PhD in Oceanography from the University of Quebec, Canada. Miss Leal’s multi-latitudinal project explored the nutritional drivers that shape natural populations of rocky shore communities. In short, she sought to answer the question, “How do larval traits, driven by different environmental conditions, shape natural populations, that is, their abundance and distribution?”

24 FIDELITER Staff spotlight

FRESH FACES JOIN PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES TEAM St Mary’s commitment to cultivating a culture of care and wellbeing that produces courageous, curious, compassionate and confident young women is supported by our highly credentialed Psychology Services team. In Semester 1, we welcomed three new faces to that team – Mrs Denise Bendotti, Ms Caitlin Timms and Miss Jessica Lethbridge – who have already built strong connections with our girls under the guidance of Head of Psychology Services and Associate Dean of Students and Wellbeing, Ms Felicity Monck. DENISE BENDOTTI | Lead Senior School Psychologist (Year 10) Mrs Denise Bendotti has worked as a psychologist in the education sector for more than 16 years. She was employed as a Senior School psychologist at Newman College for 11 years from 20092019 and joined St Mary’s in Term 2 from John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School, where she served as its K-12 school psychologist, while supporting the development of the school’s new pastoral care team and wellbeing strategic plan. Denise specialises in positive psychology and youth mental health. She relishes working with students to identify and nurture their strengths and build their capacity to manage their mental health and life’s challenges.

CAITLIN TIMMS | Senior School Psychologist (Years 8 and 11) Ms Caitlin Timms joined St Mary’s in Term 1, following a four-year stint at the Department of Health, where she worked as a clinical psychologist across several settings with children, adolescents and adults. Caitlin most recently worked at the East Metropolitan Youth Unit (EMyU), where she assisted young people with complex and acute mental health issues in an inpatient environment. She is passionate about improving youth mental health and enjoys teaching young people strategies, including distress tolerance and mindfulness skills, to help them manage their emotions.

JESSICA LETHBRIDGE | Senior School Psychologist (Years 9 and 12) Miss Jessica Lethbridge boasts more than 10 years’ experience as a youth and adult clinical psychologist in both clinical and school settings. She arrived at St Mary’s in Term 1 from Presbyterian Ladies’ College, where she specialised in teaching students and parents mindfulness techniques, anxiety management skills and the value of building strong wellbeing foundations through nutrition, exercise and sleep. Jessica enjoys exploring the connection between body and mind, promoting resilience and helping young people develop skills to cope with difficult situations or emotions.

SEEK SUPPORT | SEEK REDRESS IN 2019, ST MARY’S ANGLICAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL, ALONG WITH OUR BROTHER SCHOOL, HALE, AND OTHER ANGLICAN SCHOOLS, JOINED THE NATIONAL REDRESS SCHEME.

Our participation in this program signified the School’s commitment to recognising the suffering endured across Australia stemming from abuse and to provide an opportunity for members of our community who may be impacted to have a voice in a supportive environment. We continue to encourage members of the St Mary’s community, past or present, to contact the School by phone (9341 9111) or email (principal@stmarys.wa.edu.au) should you wish to discuss any issues. Alternatively, you can contact the National Redress Scheme direct via www.nationalredress.gov.au.

FIDELITER Staff spotlight

26 FIDELITER Inspired at St Mary's

FIDELITER Inspired at St Mary's

BOARDING AN INSPIRING

ENVIRONMENT IN A YEAR DEDICATED TO CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF

INSPIRING

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

MARY’S

STUDENTS, STAFF AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS, I TOO AM CELEBRATING. IT IS WITH GREAT JOY THAT I HAVE JOINED THE ST MARY’S BOARDING FAMILY AT ANNE SYMINGTON HOUSE, AND I COULD NOT BE MORE EXCITED FOR THE YEARS AHEAD. WHEN ASKED WHY I WOULD LIKE TO RE-JOIN A BOARDING ENVIRONMENT AND CARE FOR ADOLESCENT GIRLS, THE ANSWER REALLY WAS QUITE SIMPLE: FAMILY.

28 FIDELITER Boarding

Boarding is a unique environment and every student who resides in Anne Symington House has her own story. However, what all our girls have in common is that they have left family to reside in a house with more than 170 girls they can call sisters. It has been wonderful to witness the lifelong friendships that are being forged in Anne Symington House every day. From joining each other at breakfast, to discussing their day after school, helping each other during prep and saying goodnight to each other as the day draws to a close, our girls are entwined in each other’s lives. Memories are made daily in the boarding house, as there is always something to do. In my time so far, we have navigated two lockdown weekends (baking and pampering our way through them), enjoyed a rainbow dinner featuring Chef Eric’s famous lava cakes, honoured our Anzacs during a moving dawn service, celebrated National Boarding Week, savoured several wellbeing walks to the coast, been ice skating and roller skating, invited our Hale brothers to a Brother-Sister Dinner and so much more. Dean of Boarding, Ms Erica Herron, and I are so fortunate to be in a position where we can help to care for, support and guide our boarding students. With exams in full swing midway through Term 2, our students were provided with extra tutoring sessions, quiet study areas and time management strategies to help minimise stress during this sometimes trying time. We also thoroughly enjoyed preparing our Elevate girls for life in the workforce and discussing their experiences when they returned from a busy day at their various workplaces. St Mary’s has a fine boarding tradition and I feel truly blessed to have joined such a wonderful community in such an historic year. I cannot wait to see what the remainder of 2021 holds for the girls, their families and my colleagues as we commemorate 100 years of girls discovering their best at St Mary’s. Mrs Kellie Douglas Head of Boarding

FIDELITER Boarding

SENIOR SCHOOL

2021 PREMIER’S ANZAC STUDENT TOUR

AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

t Mary’s students Lucy Lönnqvist (Year 12), Grace Hailes (Year 11) and Alana Gregory (Year 10) were afforded the incredible privilege of participating in the 2021 Premier’s Anzac Student Tour, a thoughtprovoking 11-day trip around Western Australia in commemoration of the Anzac legacy.

Belgium or Anzac Cove in Gallipoli to see reflections of the Anzac legacy, because they begin right here, on our own soil.”

From April 16 to 26, the girls and 11 other students from a mix of metropolitan and regional WA secondary schools travelled to Kununurra, Wyndham, Broome, Rottnest Island and Albany in a bid to better understand the Anzac legacy in the context of the State’s heritage. They visited a number of important historical sites during the tour, including the flying boat wrecks in Broome, the Oliver Hill battery and tunnels at Rottnest, and the Special Air Service Regiment Museum at Campbell Barracks.

“Listening to veterans who had fought share their experiences rehumanised the wartime experience for me. They spoke from the heart and the humility surrounding their work was something they seemed to all express.”

While the girls enjoyed all aspects of the tour, their highlights varied in large part due to personal experience. Lucy, a passionate historian, said the tour gave her a greater appreciation of WA’s wartime history. “While these tours typically venture overseas, I feel as though I benefitted from learning the history and heritage present in my own backyard. Learning our local history turns the grand patterns of historical change into concrete stories that tell the lives of individuals. We don’t need to visit Flanders Fields in

30 FIDELITER Senior School

Grace, who has four relatives who served as Anzacs, particularly enjoyed the group’s interaction with Special Air Service Regiment veterans at the Campbell Barracks.

For Alana, the tour’s stops at Rottnest Island and Albany were particularly poignant. Alana’s greatgreat grandfather, Wilhelm Asmus, was held on the Rottnest Island internment camp during WWI due to his German heritage; her great-uncle, Private John Alexander Latto, was killed in action while fighting in the 11th Australian Infantry Battalion; and her grandfather, Captain Roger Blazey, was conscripted to serve as an army psychologist in the Vietnam War. “My favourite part of the trip was being in Albany for Anzac Day. We were fortunate to attend the dawn service on top of Mt Clarence to commemorate those who have served Australia in war. Visiting Rottnest was also very significant for me because my great-great grandfather was a German prisoner on the island during WWI.”

INSPIRED INVENTORS CLAIM COVETED AWARD

ear 12 students, Poppy Briggs and Lucy Lönnqvist, triumphed over a stellar field of inventors to claim ClickView’s Aussie Student Inventions that Change the World Upper Secondary title in March.

The environmentally minded pair won over the esteemed judging panel with their ‘Bin it Right’ app, which utilises artificial intelligence to identify what rubbish needs to be disposed of in general waste, recycling or FOGO bins. As part of their reward for claiming the prestigious title, Poppy and Lucy recently had an opportunity to tap into the creative mind of one of the competition’s judges, ClickView founder Evan Clark, who armed them with an array of new ideas to refine and improve ‘Bin it Right’. The dynamic duo are also set to meet with the competition’s other two judges, renowned inventor, Sally Dominguez, and prominent Australian physicist, Dr Niraj Lal, later this year.

Poppy and Lucy have become accustomed to receiving acclaim since bringing their ‘Bin it Right’ brainchild to life. In 2019 they received the City of Stirling’s ‘Stirling Star Award’ and won the ICT Young Explorers State Finals competition, which led to an invitation to pitch at the Waste and Recycle Conference in Sydney, where they later received a $4000 prize to continue developing the app. More recently, the inspiring duo were nominated as one of four finalists in the 2021 WA Youth Awards’ Sustainable Futures Innovation for a Sustainable Future category.

A ‘LIFE-SHAVING’ EFFORT

ixty-five inspiring St Mary’s students helped raise more than $63,000 for the Leukemia Foundation by participating in the School’s World’s Greatest Shave event on 22 April. Eight brave students had their heads shaved, while another 57 girls chopped their ponytails in front of several hundred supportive students at the lunchtime event.

BRIGHT SPARKS PLACE SECOND

group of talented St Mary’s Year 10 students went within a whisker of claiming back-to-back National da Vinci Decathlon titles in June.

After being crowned Australian champions in 2019 as Year 8s, Anya Chen, Madison Hamilton, Siena Hamilton, Jaime Leivers, Isabella Love, Mae Siah, Sorielle Smith and Misree Trivedi placed second in this year’s final. The event was not held in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The girls, who participated in the national final via video link, won the Arts and Poetry category, were runners-up in Creative Producers and Ideation, and performed strongly in the remaining competitions.

St Mary’s 2021 World’s Greatest Shave organising committee, Year 12 students Remi Caldow, Isobel Finnie and Skye Simpson, set an initial fundraising target of $15,000. However, their ultimate goal was to surpass last year’s fundraising total of $28,000, which they eclipsed before the event even took place, thanks to the generosity of the entire School community. Some of the Year 11 and 12 girls who took part in the event had been growing their locks for an extended period of time in preparation for the fundraiser. Year 12 student, Ingrid Sefton, donated more than 60cm of her hair for the cause. Her lengths, along with the other girls’ hair, were destined to be transformed into wigs for cancer sufferers undergoing chemotherapy. Another highlight of the event was an inspiring Q&A with Year 6 student, Chloe Warburton, who recently won her battle with leukaemia.

FIDELITER Senior School

JUNIOR SCHOOL

IN THE JUNIOR SCHOOL, WE ASPIRE TO PROVIDE OUR STUDENTS

WITH

INSPIRING

LEARNING

OPPORTUNITIES

EVERY DAY. IT IS FAIR TO SAY THAT THE GIRLS HAVE EMBRACED EVERY TASK AND CHALLENGE THAT HAS COME THEIR WAY IN THE FIRST SEMESTER OF ST MARY’S CENTENARY YEAR.

ne such test that they not only welcomed but excelled in was the Junior da Vinci Decathlon, held at the University of Western Australia's Winthrop Hall on 31 March. The da Vinci Decathlon is designed to celebrate the academic gifts of young Australians by providing a stimulating and challenging competition run in the spirit of an Olympic Decathlon. Twenty-nine schools competed in the event, with students competing across ten disciplines: Engineering, Cartography, Mathematics, Code Breaking, Art and Poetry, Science, English, Ideation, Creative Producers and Legacy. St Mary’s Year 6 team reigned supreme, claiming the title of 2021 Western Australian State Champions. The girls were awarded first place for English, second for Ideation, Legacy, Code Breaking and Engineering, and third place for Maths and Art and Poetry. The School’s Year 5 group also acquitted themselves with distinction, placing third for Mathematics, Cartography and Code Breaking.

INSPIRING 32 FIDELITER Junior School

We have also sought to inspire our Junior School girls via the introduction of a new, innovative literacy program called Little Learners Love Literacy. We are deeply committed to equipping every St Mary’s girl with the ability to read well. Learning to read is such an essential skill not only to achieve success in school and thrive in society, but also to experience the joy that reading brings to one’s life. Decades of research now prove that reading occurs in a specific way in the brains of all people. It does not occur naturally the way that speech does. The process must be taught explicitly by building neuropathways in the brain that link the sounds of speech to written symbols and letters. This orthographic mapping must be robust for students to become fluent readers. For the past three years, our Academic Centre for Enrichment (ACE) and early years teachers have been working together to deliver a Science of Reading Pedagogy in our Pre-primary to Year 2 classrooms. World leaders in reading research have emphasised the importance of teaching the big six ideas of reading: oral language, phonemic awareness, systematic synthetic phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This model forms the framework of our teaching at St Mary’s. We are committed to implementing classroom reading programs informed by the growing scientific evidence on instructional factors that support early reading development. When we know better, we do better!

We apply this philosophy to all aspects of our girls’ Junior School journey, including their physical education. Girls from Kindergarten to Year 6 participate in a wide range of sporting opportunities throughout the year, and in the summer months we make great use of our outstanding aquatic complex. Dedicated swimmers spend many afternoons following the black line in the pool and they reaped the benefits of their hard work in March. Our Year 6 team placed first in their JIGSSA Twilight Swim Meet, while our Years 4 and 5 groups claimed second place on the podium. St Mary’s is also deeply committed to supporting our students from a wellbeing standpoint. We aim to inspire our girls to be the best person they can be by providing them with a holistic education and access to experts in a variety of fields. In March, our Years 5 and 6 girls benefited by participating in a Be the Girl workshop co-ordinated by Magic Coat for Kids. During the two-hour session, the girls explored ways to develop and manage their own wellbeing as they navigate the ‘tween’ years. The workshop encouraged them to identify what makes them calm and happy and realise the importance of a positive body image, and challenged them to lead others by way of positive actions. Mrs Helen Adams Head of Junior School

STORIES

FIDELITER Junior School

ST MARY’S AUXILIARY

fter what felt like a false start to the 2021 school year, with a brief COVID-caused lockdown, the spirit to remain connected and contribute as a community continues to thrive at St Mary’s.

It is an honor to represent the St Mary’s Auxiliary and continue the work of the many parents before me who have endeavoured to create a genuine community spirit, support our girls' musical journeys, and provide a voice for St Mary’s families. Today, the St Mary’s Auxiliary provides several annual music bursaries and Speech Night memorial awards, and supports special school projects through various fundraising initiatives. This legacy, coupled with our parents’ desire to foster connections within their daughters’ year groups and the wider School community, is unique and inspiring. It is here, at this organic level, that the St Mary's spirit thrives. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the St Mary's Executive, Auxiliary Committee and 2021 Class Representatives for their ongoing support and making the St Mary's Auxiliary a pleasure to be a part of. We dived into our 2021 fundraising initiatives at the Junior School Swimming Carnival in Term 1. Our Year 4 families provided a bounty of snacks for spectators and staff, while our Year 6 parents distributed Subway lunch orders to hungry competitors after the carnival. Together, they raised more than $1000 for the St Mary’s Auxiliary. Towards the end of Term 1, we partnered with Brumby’s Doubleview to sell hot cross buns and raised more than $600 for the Auxiliary. Thank you to Matt Fong and the parents who helped distribute the hot cross buns. The St Mary's Auxiliary was also happy to host our Junior School parents in the Junior School staffroom following their daughters’ assembly item. This was a fantastic opportunity for parents, who are the heart of the Auxiliary, to informally build relationships, invest in their friendships and develop a rapport with teaching staff. We look forward to hosting upcoming year groups later in the year. We were also thrilled to hold our annual Cancer Council Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, albeit in the afternoon, on 18 June, which was partially subsidised by St Mary’s. Eighty guests and staff gathered in the Polson Room to enjoy delicious treats and refreshments prepared by our amazing boarding house staff, Chef Eric and Deb Jarman. Our charitable attendees, who helped raise more than $2000 for the Cancer Council, were also treated to a performance of the Beatles’ hit, Here Comes the Sun, by our Year 4.1 students; an engaging presentation from Cancer Council WA Fundraising Coordinator, Seiko Humble; and an inspiring address from Emma Milner, a 2020 award-winning fundraiser, who highlighted how fundraising initiatives aid the fight against cancer right here in Western Australia. Please keep your eyes peeled for information about our Centenary St Mary's Auxiliary Lunch. It promises to be filled with fashion, food, raffles and plenty of fun! I am excited for the upcoming celebrations and hope you enjoy the social events that your fantastic Class Representatives have organised for your year groups. Yasmin Baskerville President

34 FIDELITER St Mary's Auxiliary

PARENTS' SOCIETY

ommunity spirit and involvement have always been valued and intrinsic aspects of life at St Mary’s. The Parents’ Society remains committed to upholding these integral qualities of our school by supporting events and funding projects designed to enhance the environment and experience enjoyed by all of our girls and their families. The Parents’ Society has been fortunate to provide funding on behalf of the parent body for some exciting projects around the school. Our funding allocations for the first half of the year have been directed towards an upgraded cabling system in Dannatt Hall, online resources for the English Department, equipment for the Drama Department, Senior School library shelving and seating, the Junior School’s Term 1 Be the Girl workshop, informative signage for our fantastic bush tucker garden, and funding to support the introduction of an extended outdoor education program in the Junior School. As a new initiative, the Parents’ Society recently established a Student Request Fund, whereby students can submit a funding application for projects or equipment that they feel will benefit the student group. We are very excited to be able to give students an opportunity to put forward their own ideas for projects that are important to them and their peers. While there have been some adjustments to the usual schedule of events this year, we are looking forward to presenting our 2021 Careers Expo in Term 3, and the popular Quiz Night in October. Back in February, we excitedly drew the Annual Full Fee Raffle and the Clements family were our lucky winners. It was such a thrill to call them and tell them the good news. Congratulations! Our hard-working committee continues to strive to represent the wishes of all parents, and we value your ongoing input. We welcome new members at all our meetings and encourage parents to come along and get involved. Elizabeth Price President

FIDELITER Parents' society

OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION

HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY, ST MARY’S!

W YOUR 2021 OLD GIRLS' ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE President and Board of Governors Representative Mrs Amy Dawson (Fraser ’94) Vice President Mrs Jane Crisp (Cyprian ’81) Secretary Miss Brooke Sanderson (’03) Treasurer and St Mary's Foundation Representative Mrs Bree Rosagro (Buxton ’98) Chapel Liaison Mrs Margaret Jago (Parker ’72) Membership Officer and Memorabilia Sales Mrs Shelley Civitico (Robson ’73) Parents’ Society Representative Mrs Kristine Gillmore (Headling ’87) St Mary's Auxiliary Representative Mrs Daina De Mattia (Gale ’90) Committee Members Mrs Necia Drazevic (Moffet ’87) Miss Hannah Jago (’07) Mrs Julie Martin (Huxtable ’73) Mrs Julie O'Meara (Grose ’81) Reverend Joyce Polson

e were so fortunate to be a part of these celebrations, with Old Girls’ Day being held on 20 February. It was a glorious day that began with the Centenary Book Launch, with author Richard Offen and Old Girl and current parent, Karalee Katsambanis (Tilvern ’90), sharing stories and thoughts on our 100 years so far. The presentation was entertaining and engaging – much like the book itself. During the day and evening, we had more than 210 Old Girls from 1939 to 2020 in attendance, including one of our Old Girls Lila Dixon (Favas ’39) who is celebrating her 100th birthday this year. I would also like to acknowledge two other Old Girls who are celebrating this fabulous milestone with our School, Cynthia Ritson (Leake ’39) and Val Waldron (Corney ’39). How special it is that three of our alumnae are also turning 100! Happy 100th birthday, ladies!

Father Richard officiated at the Old Girls’ Day Chapel Service, with our beloved Reverend Joyce preaching to us all. During our birthday dinner later in the evening, the OGA awarded the Women of Distinction Awards recognising our amazing Old Girls in the areas of Young, Community and Career. Our winners were: Young Woman of Distinction: Jemma Collova (’10); Woman of Distinction – Community: Denise Lane (Marshall ’79); and Woman of Distinction – Career: Jenny Shaw (’76). All winners received custom-made, bespoke pâté knives by acclaimed silversmith, Phillip Noakes. In March, we held our Annual General Meeting and I thank the committee for their continued support of our association. We farewell Andrea Sassella (’98) after several years of service and welcome Brooke Sanderson (’03) to the Committee – thank you, ladies. To all our Old Girls, don’t forget to visit the Centenary website, which has details of upcoming Centenary events and Centenary merchandise – www.100years.stmarys.wa.edu.au Amy Dawson (Fraser ’94) President, Old Girls’ Association

PICTURED (CLOCKWISE): Lila Dixon (Favas ’39), Cynthia Ritson (Leake ’39) and Val Waldron

(Corney ’39).

36 FIDELITER Old Girls' Association

OLD GIRLS NEWS AND EVENTS

PLEIADES TENNIS After the cancellation of last year’s tournament, it was fabulous to see our Old Girls tennis team represent the School at the Pleiades Tennis Tournament in April at Reabold Tennis Club. PLC won the trophy again this year and St Mary’s finished in third place. Well done, ladies! LEFT: Back row left to right: Jan Howieson (Neil ’80), Janine Sadler (Lewis ’70), Penny Chellew (Devine ’70) Louise Richardson (Kelly ’85).

Front row: Jane Bolton (Churack ’84), Sally Lea (Cyprian ’83), Jane Crisp (Cyprian ’81), Fran Ackermann (’80), Jane Borrill (Clapin ’80).

SCHOLARSHIPS SUPPORTING OLD GIRLS At St Mary’s, we have a range of scholarships that are not only available to our current students but also to our Old Girls. The scholarships offered to Old Girls have been made possible by our generous St Mary’s community through donations and bequests. Congratulations to this year’s winners: FAY BAILEY SCHOLARSHIP � Scholarship: Jemah Harrison (’17) � Bursary: Arshya Kulkarni (’17) BONNY MILNE SCHOLARSHIP � Scholarship: Hannah Haddon (Coopes ’16) � Bursary: Megan Bakeberg (’12) and Alyx Robinson (’15) HELEN JUDGE ART AWARD � Catherine Shepherd (’19)

DEBORAH COOK SCHOLARSHIP FOR NURSING Emily Hoyle (’15)

�

LYNNE THOMSON SCHOLARSHIP Isobel Crabb (’17)

�

MOLLY RILEY RISE AWARD Emile Lowe (’17)

�

Applications for 2022 scholarships will open in November this year. For further information, please contact Amanda Kemp, Alumni Relations Manager, via oga@stmarys.wa.edu.au

OUR EAST COAST CONNECTIONS In a world where we have had to adapt to lockdowns, face masks, cancelled events and social distancing, it has meant that those face-to-face meetings, when they do happen, are even more vital. This was evident at our East Coast Reunions held in May. Unfortunately, our planned Melbourne Reunion did succumb to one of these new realities. However, we were still able to visit our alumnae in Canberra and Sydney. There was an amazing vibe at both events, as Old Girls caught up with former classmates and made new friends. It was such a heart-warming sight to see these connections taking place.

FIDELITER Old Girls' Association

OLD GIRLS’ DAY The school was abuzz with excitement and chatter on Saturday 20 February as we welcomed our alumnae back to launch the School's Centenary celebrations at Old Girls' Day.

RIGHT: Giada Dalli Cani with the icon.

he day was full of activities, including the launch of St Mary’s Centenary book, A Place to Grow, tours of the School and the Old Girls' Chapel Service. The Chapel Service had a special inclusion, with the unveiling of the OGA's Centenary gift to the School, a beautiful icon, Jesus Blesses the Children. This icon complements the Chapel of St Mary’s existing icon, Madonna and Child with Eucalyptus Trees, both of which were painted by Ms Giada Dalli Cani, a St Mary’s staff member. The Centenary Dinner completed the day, with more than 200 Old Girls commemorating their own reunions, catching up with former classmates and celebrating the presentation of the Women of Distinction Awards. It was lovely to see so many alumnae kicking off our Centenary celebrations in true St Mary’s fashion – by making it all about our community of maroon.

38 FIDELITER Old Girls' Association

FIDELITER Old Girls' Association

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION The St Mary’s Old Girls’ Association Women of Distinction Awards recognise and celebrate the exceptional achievements and contributions of former students to their profession and community. The Awards were established by the Old Girls’ Association as part of their 85th Anniversary Celebrations in 2010 and are awarded on a five-yearly basis. The 2020 Awards were announced at the Centenary Dinner in February 2021. The three categories of Awards (Career, Community and Young Woman of Distinction for the under 30) attracted entries of an exceptional calibre. Congratulations to the winners and finalists.

congratulations Congratulations and well done to our amazing and selfless Old Girls! We are extremely proud of all our winners, finalists and nominees. You are all an inspiration to our St Mary's community. The Women of Distinction Awards will be held again in 2025 as part of the Old Girls’ Association 100th Anniversary. Applications will open during 2024.

40 FIDELITER Women of Distinction

YOUNG WOMAN OF DISTINCTION THIS AWARD ACKNOWLEDGES AN OLD GIRL, AGED 30 OR UNDER, WHO HAS DEMONSTRATED OUTSTANDING INITIATIVE AND DRIVE IN HER CHOSEN FIELD. NOMINEES SHOULD DEMONSTRATE A FOCUS ON LEADERSHIP, PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT AND PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENTS, SUCH AS COMMUNITY SERVICE AND OTHER PERSONAL CONTRIBUTIONS.

WINNER

JEMMA COLLOVA

(’10)

In recognition of her distinguished academic achievements and career in science, as well as her commitment to mentoring other young women. Jemma is passionate about pursuing an academic career in science, where she can use psychological principles to make evidence-based decisions. Her academic achievements since graduating from St Mary’s are impressive. She has completed a Bachelor of Science with First Class Honours in Psychology from the University of Western Australia and received a Research Training Program Scholarship worth more than $75,000 to complete her PhD thesis in Psychology, which she submitted in December 2019. In 2020, Jemma worked as a post-doctoral research associate at UWA, leading her own research projects. More recently, inspired by her passion for applied research, she has taken on a role working in the Data Science and Analytics team for WA Police. Jemma’s research has been published in various journals and she has received multiple awards for these publications, most notably an Excellence in Research Student Award from the Australian Research Centre, Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders. She has led international collaborations on research projects (for example, with the University of Hong Kong) and was selected for a competitive industry internship, where she applied her scientific skills to work on a national project for the Australian Federal Government in Canberra. Throughout her academic pursuits, Jemma also worked as a research assistant in various studies and projects and was selected as a mentor for a female high school student in the national mentoring program, Curious Minds. Jemma credits St Mary’s for helping to establish the foundation for her passion for science and female education and is determined to encourage other girls to pursue STEM careers.

FINALISTS

HANNAH JAGO In recognition of her exceptional achievements in jewellery design and making, as well as her dedication to the Duke of Edinburgh program and volunteering.

STELLA SHIPWAY In recognition of her work in conservation and wildlife research, and with Indigenous rangers and traditional landowners.

FIDELITER Women of Distinction

WOMAN OF DISTINCTION C O MMU N I T Y THIS AWARD ACKNOWLEDGES AN OLD GIRL WHO HAS SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR MEMBERS OF HER COMMUNITY BEYOND THAT EXPECTED IN HER USUAL OCCUPATION.

WINNER

DENISE LANE

(MARSHALL ’79)

In recognition of her extensive volunteer work and exceptional service to St John Ambulance and her community. In 2004, Denise responded to a call for more volunteer ambulance officers for the Esperance Sub Centre, which receives more than 1300 triple zero calls per year. She saw this as a wonderful opportunity to serve her community, something she continues to do to this day. Her involvement within the Esperance Sub Centre has been wide and varied, including being a committee member for 15 years, Treasurer, Vice Chairperson and Chairperson, all of which are volunteer roles. By 2012, Denise had completed a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and started to deliver the first of many first aid training courses to the public. That same year, she was awarded a Commendation from St John Ambulance Australia for her service to the Esperance Sub Centre and community. In 2016, Denise was admitted as a Member of the Order of St John, a recognised honour within the Australian Honours System, for her exceptional service to both St John Ambulance WA and the Western Australian community. In 2017, Denise was formally awarded the Ambulance Service Medal for WA as part of the Australia Day Honours. One of the most satisfying and rewarding aspects for Denise is being able to provide a service to the Esperance community. Interacting at schools, being a part of the duty crew at community events, such as the Esperance Agricultural Show and Australia Day celebrations, and volunteering through St John’s, provide Denise with some of the best opportunities to make a genuine contribution to her community.

FINALISTS

CAROLYN BAIRD In recognition of her devoted work to support hospitalised children and their families.

42 FIDELITER Women of Distinction

LYNETTE BAKER For her commitment to advancing the interests of her hometown of Corrigin and the wheatbelt region.

WOMAN OF DISTINCTION C AR E E R THIS AWARD ACKNOWLEDGES AN OLD GIRL WHO HAS ACHIEVED SIGNIFICANT AND SUSTAINED SUCCESS IN HER CHOSEN CAREER.

WINNER

JENNY SHAW (’76) In recognition of her outstanding success and prominence in fisheries and marine science. Her work in areas of applied research, academia, and policy and management has gained international attention. Jenny received a scholarship to attend St Mary’s, which afforded her a life-changing opportunity. During her years at St Mary’s, Jenny took on many challenges presented to her and was elected Head Girl in her final year. After earning a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree from the University of Western Australia, she pursued her lifelong passion and began a career in fisheries and marine science. Over the course of her 35-year career, Jenny has distinguished herself in areas of applied research, academia, policy and management in both government and private sectors in Australia and overseas. She completed a PhD at Curtin University, where she instigated and led a project to increase knowledge of climate change in the commercial fishing industry. Her work received international acclaim and was highly awarded. Jenny, who has been a member of multiple state and national boards, was ministerially appointed as one of the first women on the influential Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee. In 1998, Jenny became a founding member of Women in Seafood Australasia (WISA). In recognition of her service to the organisation, she was inducted onto its inaugural Honour Roll and became one of only four WISA Life Members. Jenny has been a mentor to a number of highly successful women in the industry and has worked tirelessly to give women a voice in a male-dominated sphere. For her long and outstanding service to the seafood industry, she was recently inducted into the National Seafood Industry Hall of Fame. Jenny is currently Research Director at the Western Australian Marine Science Institution.

FINALISTS

LYBBIE HILLMAN For distinguishing herself in the field of gastroenterology, combining clinical excellence, academic research and community involvement, including the mentoring of students.

SOPHIE SPARTALIS In recognition of her achievements and long-standing career success in the traditionally male-dominated industries of investment banking and mining.

MADGE THOMAS In recognition of her passion for and devotion to improving human rights through her legal work.

FIDELITER Women of Distinction

NEWS FROM OLD GIRLS

Congratulations to JUSTINE RICHMOND (Pearce ’84) who was ordained a priest on Saturday 6 March 2021 at St Boniface Cathedral, Bunbury. It was certainly a very special day as Justine was supported by her St Mary's friends. Each of them had a touch of St Mary's by way of a maroon hankie. We are sure Mrs Symington would have loved the nod to the maroon. FROM LEFT: Sue Gray (Lockyer ’84), Felicity House (’84), Justine Richmond (Pearce ’84), Jannine Webb (’84) and Kate Robertson (Weeks ’84).

ELEANOR SCARFF (’01) married Lucas Signorile on Waiheke Island, New Zealand, in February 2020 and was able to enjoy a wonderful honeymoon in Fiji, just before COVID-19 restrictions. Eleanor's sister, Claire Scarff (’02), attended the wedding, along with Old Girls Suzanne Barton (’01) and Hannah Goodson (’01). Eleanor completed a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Notre Dame in 2006 and has worked as a lawyer specialising in personal injury law for well over a decade. In July last year, she was made a Director of Dwyer Durack and in September 2020 was listed in Doyle's Guide as one of WA's leading work injury compensation lawyers (plaintiff). ABOVE: Eleanor Scarff (’01) and Lucas Signorile’s wedding.

44 FIDELITER News from Old Girls

ALISON KISH ('06) and her partner of nine years, Steven Rafty, were married in March 2020, during the peak of the COVID-19 restrictions, in an intimate celebration for five people. Shortly after graduating from St Mary's, Ali took a gap year in America where she studied at the New York Film Academy. Upon her return home to Perth, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Communications) and Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from UWA. Ali has been a practising solicitor for almost six years and is currently a family lawyer working in a boutique law firm in Perth. Ali has stayed active in the Perth theatre community and was a member of the cast in a production of Agatha Christie's Spider's Web in 2020. She gave birth to their first child, Arthur Kish-Rafty, in February 2021. Congratulations to you both! LEFT: Steven Rafty and Alison Kish (’06). Photographer Natasja Kremers.

JESSE MCGINN (’08) recently returned to Perth from Sydney, where she has been living and working as an actor for the past five years. In between filming and auditioning, Jesse has been studying a Master of Education (Secondary) specialising in Drama and English. She is now in her final year and is about to commence her first practical posting at a school. Jesse says that our very own Drama teacher, Caroline Brand, was her inspiration for heading down this career path.

COURTNEY YOUNG (’09) and Luke Pellegrino celebrated their wedding in May at Christ Church Claremont. Fellow Old Girls, Darienne D’Adamo and Laura Gregory, both also from the Class of 2009, were part of the bridal party. Congratulations, Courtney and Luke! L-R: Courtney Young (’09) with her bridesmaids Tayla Hampson, Darienne D'Adamo ('09), Laura Gregory ('09) and Laura House.

JENNA BLAIR (’14) qualified as an enrolled nurse mid-2020 and is now working in hospitality while looking for her dream job in nursing. Working in hospitality has given Jenna a greater appreciation and understanding for different roles and she feels that St Mary's helped build her resilience and ability to adapt to any situation that is thrown her way.

L-R: Tameka Rhodes (’10), Sophie Raynor (’08), Bonnie Raynor (’10), Molly Raynor (’19) and Emily Raynor (’06).

Congratulations to BONNIE RAYNOR (’10) and Andrew Tye, who were married in March at St Nicholas Anglican Church in Floreat, followed by a reception at the Mounts Bay Sailing Club. Bonnie’s bridesmaids were all St Mary’s Old Girls. Congratulations to you both. KAYLIA STANTON (’11) has played professional netball with the West Coast Fever for the past seven years; however, earlier this year she moved to Melbourne to play with the Melbourne Vixens. Kaylia has a double degree in Nutrition and Health Promotion and has recently commenced work as the Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator with Netball Victoria. Congratulations, Kaylia! 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

Childhood sweethearts HANNAH COOPES (’16) and Old Haleian, Matt Haddon, were married in January at Oakover Wines with School Chaplain, Father Richard Pengelley, conducting the ceremony. Hannah and Matt met at the Year 10 social. Hannah’s sisters, Sarah and Min, and fellow Old Girl, Georgia McAlpine, were part of the bridal party. Old Girls Grace Walker, Jordy Nixon, Indi Scanlon, Ellie Orr, Bec Lyons and Robyn Fairbairn (via zoom) were also in attendance. After graduating from St Mary's in 2016, TAJHA PRITCHARD (Dalecki ’16) commenced a Bachelor of Arts at Curtin University, but deferred her studies to have her beautiful son, Lachlan. She then began a career in mining as a recruitment consultant for small to mid-tier gold mining producers and during this time, she also started her own photography business, Wild in the Willows Photography. Since then, her business has grown considerably and Tajha has even taken photos of other Old Girls’ families. At the end of 2020, she was married and is expecting another baby this year.

Filmmaker and awardwinning script writer from the northern suburbs, EMILIE LOWE (’17), has written and is co-directing featurette, The Canary. It is a compelling period drama that utilises Western Australian cast, crew, locations and businesses. Set during the 19th century, The Canary follows protagonist, Claire, who is set adrift into the open ocean on a lifeboat following the sinking of a transport vessel. With the help of a caged canary, she must find the power to defy the social standards of her time and harness her inner strength and unrealised ingenuity to survive the ordeal. The Canary was granted permission to film on the SS Leeuwin II, making it the first commercial film to be shot on the iconic vessel. We cannot wait to see the final cut. FIDELITER News from Old Girls

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

RON FARRIS

LINDSAY PALMER

20 NOVEMBER 1941 – 14 APRIL 2021

18 JULY 1939 – 22 DECEMBER 2020

A leader in the establishment of the St Mary’s Foundation, Ron Farris was the inaugural Chair, Board Member and Trustee from 1987 to 2018. He worked alongside two of our Principals, Audrey Jackson AM and Lynne Thomson, and is amongst the School’s most generous benefactors. He worked tirelessly for the Foundation and St Mary’s, spearheading a number of significant fundraising campaigns, including St Mary’s at Metricup: The Lady Treatt Centre for Learning and Leadership. Ron was born in the WA country town of Bridgetown, the second of 11 children. Although his younger life was spent in the south-west, the family eventually moved to Doubleview where Ron attended Doubleview Primary School, followed by Perth Boys School for his high school years. After completing high school, Ron gravitated to the livestock industry, starting as the ‘mail boy’, but was quick to step into the role of auctioneer at age 18, when one of the more senior staff members became ill. He became a talented livestock advisor for Wesfarmers, where he also excelled in his role as a livestock auctioneer. Ron met Joy at a party in Scarborough and this meeting was the beginning of a 58-year friendship and marriage. They had three children - Anna-Maree, who attended St Mary’s from 19791990, and two sons, Paul and Matthew. Ron’s career change to the real estate industry was the result of a discussion with a neighbour who was Principal of the prestigious Gillon and Osboine building company. He encouraged Ron to join a subsidiary of the building company called GillBoine Real Estate. Ron took on the

46 FIDELITER vale

challenge, attending many evening classes at Perth TAFE to learn the ins and outs of investment and real estate. This was the beginning of Ron’s passion for the industry and his successful reign for over 40 years as a force in Western Australian residential and commercial real estate in his own company, Ron Farris Real Estate. Ron’s effervescent personality and willingness to devote himself to his clients’ success saw his popularity grow, particularly with his voluntary work within the WA community. He became well known in the State, initially through Appealathon, followed by the Telethon Institute, where he was auctioneer for over 20 years for the Telethon Home, as well as at the Telethon Ball. He was involved in many other charities, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Ear Science Institute and Deaf Society. Throughout his life, Ron faced many challenges. His latest health challenge was tackled “front on” and courageously, and he fought stoically to share his final days with his loving family and close friends. The entire St Mary’s community extends its sincere condolences to Joy, Anna-Maree (�90), Paul and Matthew and is very grateful for Ron’s immense contribution to our School. Information provided by the Farris family

Lindsay Palmer was a valued member of the St Mary’s community and dedicated 31 years of service as a member and Fellow of the Board of Management of the Foundation from 1987-2018 and Vice Chair from 1996-2013. Lindsay particularly enjoyed working alongside Marlene Carter (current Chair of the St Mary’s Foundation), Ron Farris, Peter Mead and Ian Viner, and together they provided prudent financial management and business acumen to assist St Mary’s with long-term planning and fundraising. Seeing St Mary’s at Metricup: The Lady Treatt Centre for Learning and Leadership come to fruition was a highlight that Lindsay remembered as a great achievement. Lindsay’s family remember the many hours he dedicated to these voluntary positions, even with a full and busy life. Lindsay married Marilyn in 1968 and together they raised three children, Tresna and Lisa, who both attended St Mary’s, and a son, Lincoln, who attended Hale. The Salvation Army played a large role in Lindsay’s life. At the age of eight, he joined the Perth Fortress Junior Brass Band and at 16, he joined the Senior Band and travelled with them to the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne. Lindsay was an extremely capable musician and enjoyed playing trombone in the Perth Fortress Band for more than 70 years and also in the Silver Threads Band, conducted by his brother, Irwin.

Lindsay’s empathy, his ability to connect with people and the time he took to really understand them and their situation, enabled him to enjoy a successful career in the insurance industry and later, as a trusted financial planner. Lindsay’s loyalty and commitment to whatever he was involved in was second to none. Lindsay had a number of health challenges throughout his life. His health deteriorated quickly in his latter years; however, he never complained and would always answer with “I’m fine, thanks”, when asked how he was. He fought to be with his family right until the end. Together with Marilyn, Lindsay’s family were his greatest achievement and his love and support for them all was unrivalled. He will be greatly missed but remembered forever, with many happy, loving memories of a husband, father, grandfather, friend and colleague with a wicked sense of humour and a loving, generous spirit. Our sincere condolences go to Marilyn, Tresna (’88), Lisa (’89) and Lincoln. St Mary’s is thankful for the huge contribution he made to our School. The Palmer Family

MIRIAM ESTELLE FARDON (’53) 23 FEBRUARY 1936 – 30 MAY 2020

Mim was born on 23 February 1936 at St Helens Hospital in East Fremantle to Lilly and Roland. She began her schooling in Kalgoorlie, while her father was serving in the Air Force during the War and then returned to Perth to finish her primary education. Mim joined St Mary’s in 1947, after which she went to Fremantle Hospital for her nursing training where she graduated as Dux. Mim travelled to Launceston to do her midwifery certificate and became a triple certificate nurse. On her return to Perth, Mim applied for a job in Bruce Rock to get some experience in the country - and quickly ended up being the Matron! The following year, she moved to the Perth Chest Hospital and then joined Hollywood Repatriation Hospital. Between 1961 and 1962, Mim travelled and lived overseas, predominantly in London. After an extended period of nursing at King Edward Memorial Hospital, she headed off in 1970 to work in Victoria in the Peter McCallum Clinic in oncology. In 1972, Mim returned to WA and worked at Royal Perth Hospital in oncology. She then returned to King Eddies where she stayed for the rest of her career. Mim nursed a lot of Indigenous women at King Edward Hospital, and would often go to the airport to pick them up from their regional flights as she knew they would be nervous. Mim was a great volunteer, happy to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. One of her all-time favourite jobs was as a guide at Kings Park, which she did for 30 years. Mim loved her garden and had a soft spot for very prickly succulents. She was very much the head gardener of the family. Mim was such a brilliant support to her family, and whilst she did not marry or have children of her own, she was both a friend and role model to Andrew and Louise, her nephew and niece. Andrew Fardon

MEAGAN LOUISE PLUMMER (FRIPP ’96) 15 MARCH 1979 - 27 NOVEMBER 2020

Meagan was born in Johannesburg and migrated with her family to Perth in 1981. She started at St Mary’s in Year 5, where her younger sister, Joanna, was also enrolled. Meagan loved life at St Mary’s and always cherished the good friends she met there. Outside the classroom her passions at St Mary’s were all things outdoors, including the challenges of the Duke of Edinburgh Award and horses. She was a team player, representing the School in netball, swimming and athletics, and carried out volunteer work at Riding for the Disabled. She led Wittenoom as Drama Prefect in Year 12 and it was at St Mary’s that her passion for Fine Arts blossomed under the tutelage of art teacher, Lisa Young. Her Year 12 textile triptych was hung at the Perth Perspectives Exhibition at the WA Art Gallery.

Meagan completed a Bachelor of Arts (Art) at Curtin University and a Graduate Diploma of Education at Edith Cowan University and later, taught at Geraldton Grammar School for 18 years, where she became Head of Art. She was thrilled when one of her Year 12 student’s work was selected for the 2019 Perth Perspectives. Meagan pursued her own artwork with great enthusiasm and was commissioned to paint a variety of artworks, with an emphasis on landscapes and underwater scenes. She married in 2003 and was a loving mother to her sons, Jai (16) and Leon (12). In Geraldton, she continued playing her team sports of club hockey and soccer. She also took an active role in the Geraldton Surf Club where, later, her celebration of life was held and attended by more than 400 people from across WA.

Meagan made everyone feel special in her life. She was diligent, talented, and always humble about her many achievements. When diagnosed with brain cancer, she fought the disease courageously for over a year. She leaves behind lasting memories of her talents on many walls in many mansions. Geraldton Grammar recognised Meagan's contributions by naming their annual Art Day after her. Meagan, we sorely miss you, your empathy and tolerance, and terrific sense of humour and wit. Rodney, Dyana and Joanna Fripp

FIDELITER vale

ARCHIVAL ANECDOTES

DANNY'S GIRLS GENERATIONS OF ST MARY’S GIRLS FROM THE 1920s AND 1930s WERE AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS ‘DANNY’S GIRLS’. FAMOUS FOR THEIR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS, IMPECCABLE MANNERS, WHITE DRESSES AND INKY BLACK STOCKINGS AND SHOES FOR FORMAL OCCASIONS, A GOOD SENSE OF FUN BUT WITH AN INBUILT SOCIAL CONSCIENCE, WHO DID THEY EMULATE AND WHERE DID THEIR NICKNAME COME FROM? STRANGELY ENOUGH, FROM A DIMINUTIVE ENGLISH LADY WHO LIVED EVERY WORD SHE TAUGHT. AS NANCY ROGERS (’25) SAID OF MISS DANNATT, “SHE TAUGHT US TO LOVE GOD, TO LOVE LEARNING FOR LEARNING’S SAKE, TO GIVE SERVICE AND TO BE WELL MANNERED”.

amous for eating grapes with a knife and fork and knitting lace to meticulous patterns while walking the school grounds on lunch duty, Miss Dannatt was a strict disciplinarian with a huge heart, matched only by her sense of duty to others. Ethel Clara Hamilton Dannatt was born on 23 August 1874 to John and Lavinia Dannatt in Huddersfield, Yorkshire, England. One of nine children, only five of whom survived childhood, Ethel was extremely well educated for a woman of that time. She attended Huddersfield Girls’ College and Yorkshire Girls’ College, graduating first in England for Political Economy and second for Scripture. She attended Royal Holloway College, Egham, and the Cambridge Training College for Women Teachers. She stated in her letter of application to be Principal of St Mary’s, “My Final Schools Honours entitles me to the degree MA (Oxon), but I cannot use the title until such time as I return to England to have

the degree formally conferred”. The official School Prospectus lists her qualifications as ‘Oxford Final Schools Honours: Mathematics’. Miss Dannatt’s teaching career started in 1901 and by 1909 she was the Senior Maths and Science Mistress at Ely High School for Girls, Cambridgeshire, England. She later made the arduous journey by boat on the S.S. Ruapehu to New Zealand, securing a teaching position at St Hilda’s Collegiate School in Dunedin. After almost a year’s absence from teaching due to ill health, Miss Dannatt was appointed Principal at Cheltenham Collegiate School for Girls, Devonport (NZ) in 1921. Restless to achieve more, she applied for the position of Principal at St Mary’s. Taking over the reins of the School in 1923 from The Reverend Charles Lawrence Riley OBE, who founded the School and was the Chair of the Board of Governors, Miss Dannatt quickly instigated many of the traditions that make St Mary’s the school that it is today. Her influence and eccentricities were legendary, from her homemade lemon syrup, to teaching the girls how to ‘take the stairs’ correctly. School life was strict and regulated, but still individually forgiving. ‘Unseemly barracking’ was not ladylike, but debating and

logical argument were encouraged. Charitable fundraising for the Children’s Hospital, the Parkerville Children’s Home and the homeless was conducted through the School Bazaar, the School Picnic Day, dramatic and musical performances, drill and art displays and poetry reading nights. The Old Girls’ League, now known as the Old Girls’ Association, was founded by Miss Dannatt in 1925 from the alumnae of the schools that merged to create St Mary’s. They and the graduating classes of the School were also heavily involved in this fundraising. Miss Dannatt became well known in Perth for her charitable work. Her attendance at soirees and entertainments by Old Girls of St Mary’s was noted in the press. More importantly, her speeches aimed at encouraging the girls to stay on for higher education, and prizegiving ceremonies at the School were reported in detail. This account from The Daily News 12 December 1924 is one example: “A happier and brighter aggregation of healthy and intelligent young womanhood could hardly be met with anywhere. They were proud of their school, their headmistress, Miss Dannatt, and also of those among them who had won distinction in the scholastic field. It was an inspiring sight to see the 280

ETHEL CLARA

48 FIDELITER Archival Anecdotes

ARCHIVAL ANECDOTES

girls file past, radiant and smiling, in their dainty white frocks, and take up the forms allotted to them near the raised dais, on which were seated Miss Dannatt, the Rector, his Grace Archbishop Riley, and members of the School Council.” Always popular with the students and parent body, Miss Dannatt fell out with Chair of the Board of Governors, The Reverend Frank Stillwell, and indignantly resigned in 1937. She retired to volunteer at Sister Kate’s Children’s Home. By 1950, Miss Dannatt was becoming elderly and living in very poor conditions. The Old Girls of St Mary’s rallied to help, giving her a rousing farewell party at the home of Miss Tothill, and ticket of passage on the Orontes to live her final days with her sisters in Bridgend, Wales. Following her passing in 1964, the School named a boarding house in West Perth in her honour. That accolade was transferred to Anne Symington House in 1970 with the naming of the Dannatt Wing. Dannatt Hall was named in Miss Dannatt’s memory in 1978, at which time the Old Girls founded the Dannatt Bursary, which was first granted in 1981. Audrey van Hattem (Raphael ’36) wrote, “This Bursary would be given not necessarily for academic attainment, but to a girl with the sort of qualities that ‘Danny’ would have appreciated”. The E.H. Dannatt Senior Maths Prize was also created in Miss Dannatt’s own prizewinning subject. One of Miss Dannatt’s most famous girls, Anne Symington (Paton, ’33), said of her, “To apply her own favourite word, she was a ‘splendid’ person”. Stephanie Neille, Archivist, with thanks to Dr Jan Ring (Hatfield ’64)

ABOVE: Miss Dannatt portrait, c1930s. OPPOSITE PAGE (LEFT): Miss Dannatt, third lady from the right,

at a Riley family christening, c1920s. OPPOSITE PAGE (TOP): Miss Dannatt with students at the School picnic on the Swan River, c1920s

HAMILTON DANNATT

FIDELITER Archival Anecdotes

CENTENARY SHOP

CENTENARY BOOK - A Place to Grow One hundred years in the making, this beautiful coffee table book, written by renowned historian and author, Richard Offen, is filled with stunning images and tells the story of St Mary’s, which from humble beginnings became one of Australia’s leading schools for girls.

$55

$85

$30

$25

CENTENARY SILVER BANGLE

CENTENARY 'TOM' TEDDY BEAR

CENTENARY VANILLA CANDLE

Elegant sterling silver bangle featuring a delicate engraved charm. Packaged in a centenary branded gift box. One size fits all.

Tom the teddy is super cute and looking for a new family to join! Featuring a specially made centenary ribbon and an embroidered paw, he is silky soft and perfect for cuddles!

Engraved glass soy candle with a classic fresh vanilla fragrance. Presented in a white gift box and tied with a St Mary’s centenary ribbon.

$23

$15

$10

CENTENARY NOTEBOOK

CENTENARY KEY RING

CENTENARY SKIPPING ROPE

Soft, leather-look, A5 ruled notebook, embossed with the St Mary’s centenary stamp.

Stylish silver-plated round key ring with an engraved swivel piece. Presented in a black gift box.

Get jumping with this traditional style skipping rope which features engraved wooden handles and adjustable braided rope.

VISIT 100YEARS.STMARYS.WA.EDU.AU OR CALL (08) 9341 9111 TO PLACE YOUR ORDER

100

We look forward to celebrating our Centenary with you. DISCOVER MORE AT 100YEARS.STMARYS.WA.EDU.AU

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

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

INSTAGRAM

Fideliter | Winter Edition 2021

Articles inside

ARCHIVAL ANECDOTES

CENTENARY SHOP

VALE

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION

NEWS FROM OLD GIRLS

OLD GIRLS NEWS AND EVENTS

PARENTS' SOCIETY

ST MARY'S AUXILIARY

JUNIOR SCHOOL

BOARDING

SENIOR SCHOOL

GENERAL EXHIBITION WINNERS

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

FIRST-CLASS RESULTS

CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

WELLBEING FEATURE

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE FOUNDATION

ST MARY’S HERITAGE ICONS

FROM THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

FROM THE CHAPLAIN