Alma Mater December 2023 by stmaryscollegehobart

DECEMBER 2023 EDITION

Alma Mater

S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R A P R I L 2022

From the Principal

Prefect Report

Prefects - In their words

College News

Staff Spotlight

Alumni Association Report

Presentation plaque

From the Archives

Staying in touch with our alumni

Editor: Stefania Bostock Design: Michaela Brighella Articles and photos are a combined effort from students, staff and alumni. Cover and inside cover images credit to Tracy Vagg Photography. Cover image: Kinder students, Grace Allocca, Maryamawit Feyissa and Theresa French. Inside cover: Damian Messer with students, Isabelle Hoggett (Year 11), Clementine Shea, Audrey Dillon and Olivia Tatnell (Kinder).

164 Harrington Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000 (03) 6108 2560 stmarys@smc.tas.edu.au www.smc.tas.edu.au Printed: December 2023

From the Principal The class of 2023 finished their final day at St Mary’s College with dignity, pride and respect – a hallmark of their years of education at the College. It has been a privilege to share their journey, to teach them and learn from them, and to witness their growth and maturity, both academically and personally. At St Mary’s College, we work very hard to create an environment where the Year 12 cohort can celebrate their graduation. Parents, carers, staff and alumni are invited to join in the celebrations as a mark of gratitude for their support and contributions to the lives of our students. Together the Graduation Mass and Belling Out ceremony reinforce the strong sense of belonging and community which we are proud to foster as a Kinder to Year 12 school. As they walk down the steps from the Nagle Centre, the Year 12s are farewelled with a guard of honour on the front lawn, where smiles, shaking hands and embraces are exchanged, before they make their way out of the front gates for the final time. It is a special and moving moment to experience. The class of 2023 should be very proud of the impact they have made on the St Mary’s community through their involvement in College life and the lasting relationships they have formed. We farewell them as they embark on the next step of their journey, knowing we have prepared them with the knowledge, values, love of learning and life skills that will navigate them towards personal success. We trust they will remember that the most meaningful connections are those made in person – these are the connections that will inspire growth, compassion and understanding, and these are the ones that will shape their legacy as alumni. College life in 2023 has been rich with many opportunities for our students to strive for excellence across the whole spectrum of activities – academic, sporting, cultural, spiritual and mission outreach. Thank you to the students for their sense of fun and community, and to the staff and parents/carers, for their dedication and commitment to going the extra mile to ensure our students’ success. As 2023 draws to a close, I wish you all a happy and restful holiday season and look forward to strengthening our community further in 2024.

Damian Messer Principal

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Top to bottom: Principal, Damian Messer reflecting on 2023; Year 12 Graduation Mass; Year 12s enjoying the Belling Out.

Prefect Report The year 2023 has been an unforgettable one. The Prefect team has led St Mary’s College with pride and enthusiasm, creating new traditions for the school to continue into the future. New events on the College calendar such as Wellbeing Week, the St Patrick’s Day celebrations and numerous sporting competitions made the year a busy one. The Prefects have also played a key role in supporting the delivery of popular College events, including the Sustainability Fair, our Book Week festivities and sports carnivals. In the year of simplicity, the Year 12s wanted to create a safe space for students to express their individuality and encourage inclusivity. The Book Week parade and Nanovision were just two of many events that encouraged students to showcase their talents in a supportive environment.

This year, the Prefects, with the support of the Year 12 cohort, hosted fundraisers and events to raise money for our Year 12 charity, Be Hers. The Be Hers Foundation is committed to putting an end to the slavery and exploitation of children and women on a local, national and global level. As an all-girls’ school, the College’s Year 12 students are passionate about the Be Hers Foundation mission, as exploitation is a prevalent issue in society today. The support and guidance the Prefect team has received has not gone unnoticed, and we are incredibly grateful. To the teachers, students and especially the Year 12 cohort – we thank you. We wish the 2024 Prefects the best of luck, and we look forward to the future!

Vara Marunda Head Prefect

Top to bottom: The class of 2023 celebrating 50 days left of Year 12; the Year 12 cohort in costume for the Book Week Parade; 2023 Head Prefect, Vara Marunda. 4

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In their words… Throughout the year, we interviewed the Year 12 leaders, asking them about their aspirations for 2023, their leadership goals and the legacy they wish to leave behind after they depart the College. Here's what they had to say...

Vara Marunda, Head Prefect What legacy do you wish to leave behind after you graduate? I want to promote a space of acceptance where students can accept who they are, accept others and not try to be someone they are not. What are your plans after Year 12? I hope to move to Melbourne to study a Bachelor of Commerce and Global Studies. I’m also very interested in Humanities Studies. Who inspires you? Younger people achieving great things. One who comes to mind is Coco Gauff, an American professional tennis player, who turned pro at 14. No matter what age you are, you can do anything you set your mind to.

Brooke Sice, Deputy Head Prefect / Prefect for Wellbeing What advice would you give students thinking about applying for a leadership position in the future? I encourage students to put themselves forward for leadership roles as it is a great way to build up confidence and courage within yourself. Becoming a leader within St Mary’s allows you to not only voice your concerns but also gives you the power to speak up for others within our school community. What are your plans after Year 12? Like so many of my peers, I don’t have definitive plans for my life after St Mary’s. I plan to go to university in 2024 but am not sure what I am looking to study yet. In a few years’ time, I would love to travel around Europe with my friends as it has always been my aspiration to do so. Who inspires you? My parents and older siblings are huge inspirations – they have always shown me love and support not matter what. My friends also inspire me, as do my teachers. I think it is so important to surround yourself with people who encourage you and want you to succeed. _________________________________________________

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Jasmine Wallace, Deputy Head Prefect / Prefect for Events and Communication What advice would you give students thinking about applying for a leadership position in the future? Just do it! Step out of your comfort zone because you never know what will happen. Being a Prefect is an honour and holds great responsibility. What are your plans after Year 12? Growing up, I always had my heart set on teaching, but recently I have been keeping my options open. I want to go to university, and preferably in Tasmania, but I have not set in stone what degree I want to do as yet. Who inspires you? My biggest inspiration would have to be retired Australian sportswoman, Sharni Norder (Layton). Sharni played netball for Australia and played for Collingwood in the AFLW. She was a selfmotivated player, driven, loud, and her bond with her teammates was inspiring.

Belling Out Barbie style.

Iris Bouwmeester, Prefect for College Why are you proud to be a St Mary’s College student? I love the empowering culture that the school strives to create and how involved and supportive the staff and students are. What qualities or skills do you think make a good House Prefect? Having really positive energy and enthusiasm, as well as being able to have a go at everything and lead by example. What’s the best thing about College House? As a House, we are really supportive and kind to one another, and we are fantastic at creating an uplifting environment to be a part of.

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Prefects Harriet Kelly, Prefect for Presentation Why are you proud to be a St Mary’s College student? I have been at St Mary’s since Kinder and throughout this time I have always been proud to be a St Mary’s student. I am proud of the strong sense of community and friendship the school has. What qualities or skills do you think make a good House Prefect? It is important for House Prefects to bring enthusiasm and encouragement to their role. These skills are vital to ensuring that all members of the House are encouraged to participate within the school. What’s the best thing about Presentation House? The people. Both staff and students are what make the House activities and sport carnivals so fun!

Elizabeth Monks, Prefect for Environment and Sustainability What has been the highlight of your year at St Mary’s College? Year 12 Camp, the Sustainability Fair, Big Night In and the Year 12 Mother’s Day Breakfast. What legacy do you wish to leave behind after you graduate? A mindset for students that even small changes can make a huge impact on the environment. What advice would you give students thinking about applying for a leadership position in the future? Put yourself forward and always act out of kindness; you never know what someone might be dealing with Sometimes a small thing goes a long way. Also, get involved in school activities and volunteer.

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Ella Robinson, Prefect for Nagle

Estella Edwards, Prefect for Arts and Culture

Why are you proud to be a St Mary’s College student? Being a St Mary’s student fills me with pride due to the nurturing environment that supports both academic and personal growth. What qualities or skills do you think make a good House Prefect? A good House Prefect possesses qualities such as strong organisational skills and a genuine commitment to inclusivity. What’s the best thing about Presentation House? The tight-knit and inclusive atmosphere that encourages friendship and teamwork. _________________________________________________

Isabella Thurley, Prefect for Manresa Why are you proud to be a St Mary’s College student? St Mary’s has a long and successful history that I am privileged to be a part of. As a Prefect, I have been given the opportunity to continue the tradition that many have completed before me. What qualities or skills do you think make a good House Prefect? Approachability, confidence and cooperation are qualities that I have found to be necessary for the role. As you are working with teachers, mentors, other Prefects and students in the House, you need to be able to communicate and work as a team. What’s the best thing about Manresa House? This year I have been greatly surprised by the levels of participation across the grades. Even in our weekly House games, students are eager to participate and have a go which is a great example for younger year groups. 6

What has been the highlight of your year at St Mary’s College? There have been many standouts this year, however, the Big Night In was one of the first times when we all came together as a year group to collaborate and plan a great night for the Year 11s. What legacy do you wish to leave behind after you graduate? I hope that St Mary’s can continue to facilitate a rich culture that supports and promotes the arts following our graduation. What advice would you give students thinking about applying for a leadership position in the future? If you want to be a leader, you have to work as an exemplar for the change you want to see. _________________________________________________

Hannah Korn, Prefect for Social Justice What has been the highlight of your year at St Mary’s College? Working with the whole Prefect team to continue to create a positive, welcoming environment for all students at St Mary’s, whilst also focusing on social justice in raising awareness and taking action against issues that impact our school and wider communities. What is one lesson you’ve learned in 2023 that you are grateful for? I have learned to not be too hard on myself and be proud of my achievements. What legacy do you wish to leave behind after you graduate? I hope that I can leave behind a message of positivity, that even just through small acts of kindness you can make a positive difference to others. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

Prefects Laura Smith, Prefect for Sport What has been the highlight of your year at St Mary’s College? As Sports Prefect, the biggest highlight of my year would be leading the Cross Country team to win the girls' Aggregate Shield for the first time ever. It was so good to see everyone supporting one another. What is one lesson you’ve learned in 2023 that you are grateful for? Don’t be afraid to try something new. What legacy do you wish to leave behind after you graduate? I hope St Mary’s continues to support girls in sport. _________________________________________________

Kasota Clayton, Prefect for Academia What has been the highlight of your year at St Mary’s College? The relationships I have formed with my fellow Prefects, school staff and students as we have organised events together within the school community.

Lara Schultz, Prefect for Identity and Mission What has been the highlight of your year at St Mary’s College? A highlight of mine this year was being able to attend the Cathedral reopening mass and meeting new people through our Inservio team.

What is one lesson you’ve learned in 2023 that you are grateful for?

This year has taught me to push myself outside my comfort zone and not to be afraid to embarrass myself. This has allowed me to gain self-confidence and take advantage of experiences I would have otherwise passed over.

This year I have learnt that it’s important to break out and try new things even when you are highly uncomfortable as that’s how you develop new skills and have fun!

What legacy do you wish to leave behind after you graduate? I hope to inspire other people to achieve their goals and pursue their passions at school and show that growth and adaptation are part of the journey.

What legacy do you wish to leave behind after you graduate? I hope the College community and my Inservio team remembers me as someone who they could approach and get guidance from, while sharing our religion and having some fun along the way!

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Ellie Atkins, Prefect for Junior School What has been the highlight of your year at St Mary’s College? The bonds I’ve made with the younger years. Before Year 12, I didn’t have many interactions with the students in the years below me, but now, after spending more time with them, I have a new perspective on the joys of life. What is one lesson you’ve learned in 2023 that you are grateful for? Persistence is key. When I’m struggling to understand a concept, rather than give up, I try and persevere to do the best that I can. What legacy do you wish to leave behind after you graduate? That St Mary’s is filled with numerous support systems, and it is important that people are aware that they can access these whenever they need. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

Top to bottom: Graduation Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral; Year 12 students with Andrew Clarke (Director of Senior School), Damian Messer (Principal) and Caroline Wilson-Haffenden (Deputy Principal) hamming it up for the camera. 7

College News

Life skills for real life A new ‘life-skills’-based education program is giving St Mary’s College students the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the classroom and in the world beyond.

“As adults, we are expected to know how to change a lightbulb, how to act in a job interview and how to navigate all kinds of social situations, but these skills are not explicitly taught at school.” Focusing on teaching students the basics, the Life Skills workshops are practical, interactive, and hands-on, enabling participants to learn through experience.

Changing a car tyre, checking oil and coolant levels, creating a budget, and learning about superannuation and saving are just some of the real-world topics Year 10 students are gaining exposure to through the College’s Life Skills workshops.

“Although these lessons are handy for everyone to know, we hope that by teaching our students these basics, they will be empowered to advocate for their learning in areas not traditionally offered or available to women,” Ms Conway adds.

Developed by the College, the workshops were facilitated and delivered in 2023 by a dedicated team of St Mary’s College Senior School teachers as part of the school’s Pillars program—an evidence-based, practical wellbeing program designed to engage Year 7 to 10 students in opportunities for experiential learning that extend beyond the traditional classroom environment.

The St Mary’s College Pillars program is underpinned by Positive Education principles and the PERMAH framework—a wellbeing theory developed by positive psychologist Martin Seligman.

All Year 10 students at the College participated in a rotating schedule of workshops in 2023, which were held weekly during class time throughout the school year. St Mary’s College Learning Support Officer for Wellbeing, Kate Conway says the workshops provide an opportunity for students to build a toolkit of transferable skills that will prove useful, no matter what future career path they choose.

“Having life skills is an essential part of being able to meet the challenges of everyday life, but as fundamental as these skills are, they are often taken for granted.”

St Mary’s College Deputy Principal, Caroline WilsonHaffenden says the College aspires for students to become articulate problem-solvers who think outside the square, who pursue excellence and who are comfortable with change. “In a climate of unprecedented levels of anxiety and mental health challenges amongst young people, our goal is to develop effective programs that support the growth of social and emotional skills by promoting resilience, building self-esteem and a positive attitude,” she says. “Most importantly, the idea for the Year 10 workshops started with the students, and ultimately our program is responding to their needs. “The College’s Pillars program will always be an evolving one as the needs of our young people change.” Left to right: Secondary Teacher, Felicity Lovett with Pillars students, Jorgia Jamieson and Charlotte Beach (Year 10), (photo credit: Nikki Davis Jones, News Corp Australia.); Jessica Smith (Year 10) checking car basics under the bonnet. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

College News

The sky’s the limit Time flies when you’re having fun … but it’s even more fun when you’re flying! The College’s Year 10 students would agree – especially after their Pillars aeronautical experience which saw them make off-site visits to the Cambridge Aerodrome (Tasmania's general aviation hub) and Rotor-Lift Aviation at Cambridge.

The fully immersive activity, which took place at the end of Term 3, culminated in the students making and flying their own fixed wing electric radio-controlled aeroplanes (which they could take home) at the Cornelian Bay Oval. The students also experienced the power of a 1.5-metrelong RC spitfire, observed the science of flight and practised RC flying on two flight simulators, with a few bumps along the way! A big thank you to the friendly and knowledgeable aerodrome and aviation staff for accommodating our visit.

“Wellbeing is important for a lot of reasons. It has a direct relationship to academic achievement. We know that when wellbeing is high and good, we are more likely to achieve academically.” Courtney Hartog, SMC Wellbeing Coach

“Pillars classes are great because they make me think about a lot of things: growth mindset, the power of yes, positive friendships and that it is OK to get things wrong.” Year 7 student

“Gratitude helps me to see what is in my life rather than what isn’t.” Year 8 student

"Hearing people’s stories, the challenges they have faced and how they have overcome them is inspiring." Year 9 student

Positive feedback Experiential learning opportunities are central to the Pillars program, with students undertaking day trips and year level experiences exploring the wonderful bush, alpine and coastal environments across our beautiful island state. It is exciting to see how the program has continued to evolve this year as we continually explore and develop opportunities that support the growth of students’ social and emotional skills so that they embrace challenges with a growth mindset and are comfortable with change. "Opportunities to work with the younger students by providing teamwork challenges has been a highlight of the Pillars program. It was far more challenging that I expected it to be." Year 10 student Top to bottom: Year 10 students touring the Cambridge Aerodrome and Rotor-Lift Aviation sites for their Pillars experience. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

College News

Sustainability Fair success This year’s Sustainability Fair, held on Wednesday 13 September, was a resounding success, with families and students flocking to the College Green to discover how St Mary’s College is doing its bit to support a healthy and vibrant community. Guests were inspired to learn about and embrace everyday sustainability practices, with an array of colourful stalls, workshops and demonstrations highlighting topics such as permaculture, natural ecosystems, upcycling, circular economy, sustainable food, electric vehicles, First Nations culture – and much more. A worm farm run by the Kinder and Prep classes and a baby chicks exhibit linking to the Year 4 unit on lifecycles were popular attractions, while succulents propagated and replanted by the College’s Future Entrepreneurs students drew in steady crowds. Other event highlights included stalls selling beeswax wraps, baths salts, coffee sugar scrubs, handmade jewellery, aprons, tea towels and tote bags; a book giveaway, a uniform swap and fast fashion display – featuring a walking installation, and a variety of delicious food to tempt tastebuds, from a hearty spit roast and tempura vegetables to stir fry vegetable noodles, cupcakes and hot chocolates. As they browsed the displays, spoke with students and staff, and took part in hands-on activities, members of our community were encouraged to consider innovative ways to go green by reducing, reusing and recycling in the home, at work and on the go. Thank you to the staff and students who spent countless hours preparing for the Sustainability Fair. We eagerly look forward to seeing how this event will evolve in the coming years.

Top to bottom: Feeding hungry crowds at the Sustainability Fair; a variety of wares on display; baby chicks; Holly Teale (Year 11) and College Sustainability Officer, Phil Shanny modelling their fast fashion designs; Piper Bell, Madeleine Marr and Charlotte Hordern (Year 8) selling bees wax wraps. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

College News

An evening of musical delights On Thursday 14 September St Mary’s College hosted its annual Music Gala Evening – the premier event on the Music calendar. An outstanding celebration of music and choir at SMC, the Music Gala gives Junior and Senior School students the opportunity to present a curated program of instrumental and vocal works that showcase the breadth and depth of their talents and accomplishments. From solo instrumental and vocal performances to items from the College concert and rock bands, string ensemble and student choirs, our audience was treated to a stellar showcase, and our students should be proud of their outstanding achievements. Congratulations to all performers and instrumental music staff on presenting and preparing a spectacular Gala.

Exceptional art on show Friday 10 November saw the official opening of the St Mary’s College Art and Design Exhibition. Attended by students, parents, families and the wider College community, guests marvelled at the brilliant visual works on display in the gallery-inspired setting, admiring the efforts and technical skills of students from Years 7 to 12. The annual exhibition marks the culmination of 12 months of hard work, with featured artworks representing a wide array of mediums and styles, from traditional painting and drawing to photography, digital art, sculpture, woodwork and textiles. The evening also included the presentation of the prestigious 2023 Visual Art Awards and Art Acquisition, recognising our students’ outstanding commitment to the visual arts and dedication to growing their creative practice. Congratulations to all students who had works on display, and a special congratulations to those selected for Visual Art and Art Acquisition Awards in 2023. Top to bottom: The Junior School Choir lends their voices to the Music Gala Evening; the Senior School rock band; outstanding visual art on display at the Art and Design Exhibition. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

College News

Honouring the past, inspiring the future In August, St Mary’s College hosted the biennial Nagle Education Alliance of Australia Staff Conference, welcoming 80 delegates from Presentation schools around Australia.

The following day, the conference reconvened at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart where the participants heard from keynote speaker Amy Green, founder of the Wellness Strategy, who challenged those listening to build a shared understanding of what wellbeing is, in particular, the wellbeing of staff in schools. Later that day, a variety of workshops were on offer, including several presented by St Mary’s College staff including Mr Andrew Clarke, Mrs Caroline Wilson-Haffenden and Mrs Dee Spaulding. That evening, conference delegates returned to the Grand Chancellor for a wonderful conference dinner with the St Mary’s College Senior Rock Band providing background music.

After only being able to gather virtually in 2021, this year’s event was a welcome opportunity which many people had been longing for; a chance to come together as Presentation People to explore the charism which binds us together. This year’s conference theme was Honouring the Past: Inspiring the Future, with the first session held in St Peter’s Hall at the College, starting with a Liturgy led by our students which examined what is at the heart of Nano Nagle’s lantern. This analogy was then further explored in a drama performance by Mrs Olivia Stephen’s Year 7 students who explored the life and influence of Nano Nagle and the first Presentation Sisters in Australia, those who founded St Mary’s College in 1868. The keynote speaker, Irish Professor Deirdre Raftery, then shared her research and reflections on Nano’s life and legacy. The day concluded with a beautiful Mass in the Cathedral, followed by the welcome reception in the St Mary’s College Student Resource Centre, both which included musical accompaniment by Mr Scott Weston and our Senior Music students. 12

Top to bottom: Damian Messer and Sister Gabrielle Morgan with delegates at the NEAA staff conference welcome reception hosted by SMC; students performing a liturgical drama in St Peter’s Hall to mark the conference opening. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

College News The final day of the Conference focused on the theme of Faith in Action as explored by keynote speaker Dr Chris Rayner. His presentation challenged those present to explore ways of teaching and learning that are informed by the Christian faith which underpins each school. There was then an opportunity to participate in more workshops and finally the closing ceremony of the conference. Led by St Mary’s students, the closing liturgy included a ritual of passing on Nano’s lantern – from Sister Gabrielle Morgan pbvm – to staff and then to students who represent the future of the Presentation charism. Candles were presented to a representative of each organisation or school present as the participants watched a video of students from Presentation Schools around Australia as they too passed on Nano’s lantern. Overall, the conference was an enriching, inspirational and informative experiencing for all participants, which included a number of staff from St Mary’s. Together, we grew in our understanding of Nano Nagle and what it means to be Presentation People in the world today. We look forward to the next conference in 2025.

Sharon Lawler Director of Identity and Mission Top to bottom: Mass in St Mary’s Cathedral; Senior School students at the closing ceremony; Andrew Clarke (Director of Senior School), second from left, with visiting guests from NEAA schools; Iona Presentation College staff delegates posing with Nano Nagle at the College.

Image taken by Iona Presentation College staff delegates. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

Staff Spotlight Emily Jenkins, Prep teacher What do you most enjoy about teaching Prep? Teaching Prep children is such a joy. The unique and heartfelt way in which they view the world is infectiously beautiful. They are thirsty to learn and engage with the world around them. But they are also very young and need that loving support and guidance as they navigate relationships and the discovery of who they are as a unique individual. What does a typical day in the classroom look like for you? I have the privilege of spending a day with our gorgeous Prep Bilbies and a day with the divine Prep Possums. The girls always bound through the door eager to learn. Our typical days are consistent with structure and routine – with specific blocks dedicated to literacy and numeracy. But they also allow for the development of oral language, curiosity and creative play—and a lot of hugs. What has your year level taught you? Prep has taught me that there is joy in everything, we just need to seek it out. Life is a tapestry of experiences. Some challenge us, pushing us to our limit, and some are pure light and laughter. I certainly don’t take for granted the privilege of being a part of these precious little people’s lives.

Can you share something that your class might not know about you? My darling girls know a great deal about me, as I am prone to a chat! But if I had to think of something, perhaps it might be that I have seen the pyramids of Giza, climbed to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, and had a pet goat as a child. Who do you admire? Admiration is something I consistently feel day to day, for a great many people. But if I were to pick one it would be my grandfather Archie. He was a school principal and a father of six. He was also a soldier who fought and was taken to prison during the Second World War. Archie endured unimaginable terror but survived the war and came home to marry my dear grandmother, Helen, a St Mary’s old girl. His experiences, although too hard to ever comprehend truly, partly shaped the lives of his children and grandchildren. He taught us the true gift of forgiveness and gratitude. He lived a life defined by love and an inexhaustible kindness. I carry him and his invaluable lessons with me always.

Who or what motivated you to pursue a career in education? My mother was a teacher for over 30 years, and she was incredibly good at it. She dedicated most of her career to the education and support of children with specific physical and developmental needs. She was an advocate for those precious kids and their families. I certainly can only hope to leave a mark like that. What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job? The most rewarding parts are the moments of impact you don’t realise you have made. I taught Grade 3 at Dominic College before the birth of my third child and had a particular little boy in my class who I remember very well. He had extremely low self-esteem and school and friendships were often overwhelming and challenging. I used to tell him that he was, and always will be, enough. That I ‘saw’ him for the talented and loving boy that he was. Several years later as I sat in the Principal’s office, waiting for an interview at Dominic after the birth of my fourth child, I began flipping through a yearbook. There he was, now a secondary student, and all grown up. He had been asked, ‘who was your favourite teacher in primary school and why?’ He had answered, “Mrs Jenkins, because she always taught me to be myself’. Every challenging day in my career was worth that moment.

Emily with her Prep students.

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Staff Spotlight Wendy Forsyth, departed SMC in 2023 When did you begin teaching at St Mary’s College? My first day at SMC was Tuesday 25 June 2001. I finished teaching on the Friday of the previous week at a school outside Brisbane (the last day of Term 2 in Queensland), jumped on a plane on Saturday and flew to Hobart. Lance Coad (whose role was basically that of Deputy Principal) kindly allowed me to start on Tuesday of what was then the second week of Term 2 here in Hobart (we had three terms back then), so I taught a 22-week ‘term’. By the time the next holidays arrived I had taught from Easter to early September without a break, and I really felt that I had earned a holiday. Do you remember your first day on the job and, if so, what stands out? Yes, I remember arriving at the school and asking a student to direct me to Lance’s office. I had been interviewed over the phone so hadn’t visited the school until this time. I was interviewed by Ann Stanfield, who was Principal at the time; Lance, and Kerry Hennessy, who was Head of Science. There was a jack hammer working on the roof of the convent and, as you can imagine, conversation was challenging. My teaching load in that first year was a range of Year 7 – 10 classes. I remember a Year 9 Maths class, a Year 8 Science class, and I think a Year 8 Maths class, and the rooms that I was in. It was interesting that shortly after I arrived a new student joined my Year 9 Maths class, and it turned out that she had come from Cairns and had attended the same school that I went to as a student in Cairns. What inspired you to start a teaching career? In almost everything that I have done through my life, I have taken on a teaching role. Teaching just seemed to be the most natural career to choose. In a previous life I trained dogs (mine were border collies) in obedience and tracking, and I became an instructor in the club, teaching others how to train their dogs. I also competed in equestrian sports, mostly in dressage, and was an accredited instructor with Equestrian Australia, teaching other riders how to get more from their horses. It seems that I was destined to be a teacher, and I have been lucky enough to have taught many amazing students at wonderful schools which has meant that I have not lost the love of teaching.

What have been the biggest changes to teaching and learning that you’ve witnessed during your time at the College? The biggest change is probably in the students. I feel that some (not all luckily) are less involved with their education today and less inclined to put in extra work to their studies in their own time. Having said that, I have been fortunate to have taught many wonderful and dedicated students in my time here at SMC. Many stand out but I don’t want to mention names as I would definitely miss someone who deserved to be mentioned. But in the words of Ann Stanfield, “You know who you are!” Life for students today is much more complex than it was when I started here at SMC with the impact of social media, many students working long hours in part time jobs, and the mental health issues that are facing many young people in today’s world. What are your fondest memories of St Mary’s College? The wonderful Arts Festivals organised in a large part by the amazing Sue Hall; the fabulous staff that I have worked with over the years, not to mention the students. One of my enduring memories has to be of being woken up in the middle of the night by a student (pretty sure it was Sophie Hansson?) “knocking” on my tent (can you even knock on a tent?) during the Year 8 Maria Island camp, November 2001. One of the girls, in her tent, had thrown up all over her sleeping bag and that of at least one another student. I had to get up and clean up their tent and then go and wake one of the rangers to beg for dry sleeping bags so that the girls could go back to sleep. The other teacher sharing my tent kindly decided I could deal with it because “You are a mother!” What has been the highlight of your teaching career thus far? This question should be ‘highlights’ of my teaching career! The biggest highlight just keeps happening. It is the thrill that I get when a student realises that they ‘get’ something that they had previously had trouble understanding. A student who suddenly realises that they get how to work with percentages! Another, creating an error free computer program which actually does what it is meant to do. Those fabulous maths students who just loved using the glass windows to solve complex maths problems, and then leaving it there for the world to see.

Opposite page: Former Secondary Teacher, Wendy Forsyth. This page, left to right: Wendy congratulating and farewelling students at the Year 12 Belling Out, and receiving a bouquet of flowers at the Senior School assembly. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

Alumni Association report This year the Committee spent time reviewing and reframing the new Constitution which brought our Association under the umbrella of St Mary’s College.

As in previous years, one of our Committee members attended the annual Senior School Prize Giving to award prizes on behalf of the Alumni Association.

We owe Cecily Verrier a great debt of thanks in this, as she brought her sharp mind and eye to the writing and reframing involved.

At last year’s meeting, we persuaded Sandra Halliwell and Margaret Peters to join our Committee for 2023, and I thank them for this. Thanks as well to Rebecca Godfrey, our young Secretary, and to our other regular Committee members, Cecily, Jane, Anne and Mary.

The Principal, Mr Damian Messer signed off on the changes, after which we had the documents checked by a solicitor. After several more small changes, the documents were passed by the membership at the Annual General Meeting in November. We also closed our financial accounts and deposited our finances in an account in our name, embedded within the College finances, as voted on at last year’s AGM. In February, we sent a cheque to Lily Ransley (class of 2022) to acknowledge her achievement as one of the top 100 ATAR scorers in the state.

During the 2023 Annual General Meeting, the members finalised the decisions to place our Association and our finances under the umbrella of the College. Thank you. Margaret Rootes Outgoing President of the Alumni Association

In late September, the Committee hosted a luncheon for the Year 12 leavers, which was well received. Thank you especially to Jane Short, Sandra Halliwell, Anne Morrison, Mary Noonan, Bridget Shea and Cecily Verrier for their support and help with this. Committee members also attended the Graduation Mass at the end of October to wish the leavers well, and to present each one with an engraved keyring.

Pictured clockwise from top right: Committee members Jane Short, Margaret Rootes (Outgoing President), Sandra Halliwell, Anne Morrison; alumni at the AGM and the alumni gifting tree at the Year 12 Graduation.

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Presentation plaque

Legacy set in stone

Top to bottom: Presentation Sisters, back row L-R, Elizabeth Vagg, Majella Kelly, Barbara Amott,

A plaque in honour of the Presentation Sisters, who founded St Mary’s College in 1868, was unveiled and blessed in a special ceremony held at the College in October.

Monica Shelverton and Marilyn

The Founding Sisters’ Plaque acknowledges and commemorates the work and contribution of the pioneer sisters who, led by Mother Xavier Murphy, set sail from Fermoy, Ireland in 1866 to pursue Catholic educational endeavours in Tasmania.

Founding Sisters’ Plaque; Principal,

Fryett. Front row, L-R, Gabrielle Morgan, Pat Kingsley, Norah Donnelly and Marie Connolly; the Damian Messer addressing the gathering at the plaque’s unveiling and blessing; the plaque’s dedication to the founding sisters.

Since then, 141 women have followed in Mother Murphy’s footsteps to carry the lantern to 22 sites across Tasmania, the Bass Strait Islands and Papua New Guinea, working in schools, universities, parishes, retreat centres, Catholic Education offices and nursing homes, as well as country areas and in mission support. The plaque, which is fixed in stone outside the wall adjacent to St Mary’s Cathedral, serves as a tangible reminder of our own rich Presentation heritage and traditions, providing students and staff with the opportunity to maintain a connection to our roots and the mission of the Presentation people today. The dedication of the plaque marks a significant chapter in the history of our Presentation journey and is timely as we begin preparations for the 250th anniversary celebrations of the Presentation congregation’s founding in 2025. We were honoured to be joined by a wonderful gathering of College staff, past principals and alumni for the unveiling, along with the Presentation Sisters from our Tasmanian congregation who have all played an important role in our Presentation story here at St Mary’s College.

S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

From the Archives

Revisiting the story of the St Mary’s College crest Readers of the last edition of the Alma Mater will recall my report about the history of the St Mary’s College crest and motto. After doing my fair share of sleuthing on the matter, I conjectured that the crest was probably created by Sister Dominic Mills, who certainly carved the ornate frame in which the original illuminated crest is displayed. Not long after the Alma Mater went out, to my delight I was contacted by Margaret Roper (1968), who was able to pinpoint the exact author of the crest, and it was, in fact, not Sister Dominic Mills after all! Margaret wrote as follows: In 1963, when I was in first year high school and my sister Rosemary in second year high school, Sister Canice called us both out of our classes. Sister Canice asked my sister how our grandfather’s name was spelt, to which Rosemary responded ‘Osmund’. Sister Canice then told us that our grandfather had designed the College crest and we were taken to see it. We saw the crest within the wooden frame which we were given to understand was carved some time after the crest was designed.

Many thanks to Margaret for providing this missing link in the history of the crest, as well as her family ties to the College so early in its history. As a further point of interest, Osmund’s father, Joseph was a great friend of Bishop Willson (the predecessor of Archbishop Daniel Murphy), as they had known each other well in their home city of Nottingham. The Bishop charged Margaret’s great grandfather with the job of helping with the establishment of St Joseph’s School in Hobart in 1851. The Roper family has obviously very strong links with the Catholic Church in Hobart. Margaret Rootes

Heritage Officer

It seemed that Sister Canice knew our grandfather well, because she was aware of the unusual spelling of his name ‘Osmund’, and she was very definite that he designed the crest. Sister Canice would have been well and truly in her eighties in 1963. [Sister Canice Fleming was professed in 1905 and died in 1965.] Osmund Roper (pictured to the right) was born in 1861 in Hobart. After leaving school, he became a survey draftsman engaged in mapping various parts of Tasmania. He also did illuminated addresses for visiting dignitaries. Therefore, he was skilled in design and art. He had six younger sisters born between 1863 and 1876, and the younger ones of these attended St Mary’s College in the late 1800s. Hence, the connection with the school.

S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

Above: Osmund Roper (1861-1932), the mastermind behind the St Mary’s College crest. S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

From the Archives

Nano and the three ‘urchins’ Letter from Sally Cattell dated 23 July 2023 Over the years since I have retired, some kind friend has sent me the Alma Mater and may I say how original and striking the 2023 magazine is. It revived old memories for me. Some 30 years ago, when Sister Barbara was Principal, and Mrs Anne Stanfield was her Deputy, the Sisters I knew were Sister Joseph, Sister Marilyn (school counsellor), Sister Julianne and Sister Mary Morgan (retired and living at Maryknoll). The rest of the staff were from various denominations, including myself, and I was the Speech and Drama teacher for the Senior School. Sister Barbara asked me to prepare a re-enactment of the arrival of the first Sisters when they travelled to Richmond [in November 1866]. Also, a performance suitable for the Cathedral. Invitations were sent to all the Presentation Sisters throughout Australia and beyond for this special anniversary. {For the event] I ‘convinced’ some of the staff to dress as the first Sisters and I played the part of Sister Ignatius. The habits were authentically made under the eagle eye of Sister Mary. [On the day] we sat in a horsedrawn cart loaded with trunks as it wound its way to the small church on the hill (St John’s Church Richmond). On arrival we were met by clergy and other staff, as well as locals in period dress.

The drama in the Cathedral was re-enacted by students. It began with a student dressed as Nano Nagle reading quietly to three ‘urchins’ on the chancel steps. Barbara Robinson (Home Economics teacher) read the story of Nano Nagle from the lectern. A handful of senior students dressed as Sisters processed up the nave to the music of Pachelbel’s Canon, with a space of five steps between each of them. As they approached the chancel steps, they split into groups going left and right down the outer aisles, joined by various children sitting in the pews, dressed in school uniforms from across the years. More children entered the Cathedral from another door, and they all followed the ‘Sisters’ out of the Cathedral. The service was, I believe, photographed by History teacher, Mr Tim Chapman. I have in my study, a framed photo of Nano and the urchins from that day. One thing I should have mentioned is that Sister Julianne taught me the correct protocol with regards to the stance and calmness of the Sisters. It was quite something to teach this to the students who as Sisters processed up the aisle! Sally Cattell Past St Mary's College teacher

A brief ceremony took place followed by the placing of a time capsule underneath the Celtic cross outside. The whole re-enactment was filmed and should be somewhere in the school archives.

S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

From the Archives

Some notes to explain the event described by Sally. When questioned about this event which occurred in November 1996, Sister Barbara Amott tells me that at a national meeting of the Australian Presentation Congregation Heads, it was decided that they should mark the 110th anniversary of the arrival of the original Sisters in Richmond. This event took place on 2 November 1866. As most people are aware, the convent building in Harrington Street was not ready for the Sisters upon their arrival in Hobart on 31 October 1866, so they responded to an invitation to reside and work in Richmond until the completion of their Hobart school. Sister Barbara recalls that Presentation Sisters from all over Australia travelled to Tasmania to mark the Richmond anniversary in November 1996. Sally takes up the story in her letter, for which we thank her. It was a lovely reminder of this happy occasion in Presentation history in Hobart. Margaret Rootes Heritage Officer

To the left and above: Students and staff, pictured in 1996, staging a re-enactment of the first Presentation Sisters’ arrival at Richmond, Tasmania.

S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

Gems from the AGM

Saturday 4 November 2023

Staying in touch with our alumni

Taylah Pickett (class of 2018) What is your current occupation and how does your passion for art play a role in this? I am currently the Indigenous Service Officer for Services Australia. I cover all of southern Tasmania. My role is to travel across southern Tasmania to assist communities and third-party organisations and provide our most vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customers with the knowledge and skills to access our payments and services. I often go to family learning centres that showcase a lot of local art which provides our future generations with a creative way to learn, grow and share our stories. Art has always been my passion, and I take any opportunity to grow as an artist. I have recently designed an ocean-themed mural that spans over four walls in a children’s centre. It gives me great pleasure to create a colourful and creative space for children to use their imaginations. As a First Nations woman, what influence does your culture have on your work and art? I am a proud Palawa woman and have a deep connection to culture through my family and their storytelling. Our elders hold onto our language, stories and practices, and I try to cherish and share this through my art. I have recently commissioned a series of artworks that represents our ancestors and how we feel their connection through Country. What led you to pursue this pathway? What inspired/ motivated you along the way? I was inspired to follow this pathway as I see every day the challenges some of our mob face and I knew I wanted to help in any way I could. As a result of history and past traumas, the Australian Government has struggled to build a foundation of trust with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the country. My role is to work on this and build engagement with the community. By doing so, our most vulnerable demographic is able to feel supported, become more self-sufficient and gain confidence in themselves, which is what motivates me to keep going! It is so rewarding being able to not only support our mob but also build on respect and rapport between government and customers. What are your aspirations for the future? I am so happy with what I have already achieved so far with the government and our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. My biggest aspiration at the moment is to make a name for myself through my artwork and one day be able to do it for a living!

Pictured from top to bottom: Taylah Pickett with her mural; the First Nations artist shares her personal connection to Country and Culture through her vibrant and colourful artwork.

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Staying in touch with our alumni Taylah Pickett profile continued. Thinking back to your years as a school student – what is your strongest memory of your time at St Mary’s College? What did you enjoy most about your time here? Years 11 and 12 were definitely the highlight of my time at St Mary’s College. Having the independence to choose my own subjects allowed me to grow and learn new skills. I challenged myself in different areas which helped me improve and gain confidence in myself. These skills have been so vital to both my career progression in the government and as an artist. What advice would you give to current students? Take every opportunity! I had no idea what I wanted to do after Year 12, but I saw an opportunity to work with the government and took it! This has allowed me to move around in different roles and progress upwards. In the background, I have been working on my art and taking on commissioned opportunities, which has allowed me to grow my digital art, photography and painting skills. By taking on all of these different opportunities, I have been able to grow both as a public servant and as an artist. Don’t ever say no to something because you think you can’t do it or you are not good enough; have confidence in your abilities and don’t ever stop growing.

S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

Staying in touch with our alumni

Cathy Thornton (nee Jones) (class of 1984) Where did you grow up and where do you now live? Dad was in the Royal Australian Navy, so we moved around quite a bit when I was young. I was born in Melbourne, and we moved around between Victoria, NSW and ACT before settling in Tasmania in 1982 when I started at St Mary’s. I stayed in Tasmania for a few years after finishing school before heading to the mainland – Adelaide – and then eventually the UK and have now been in Wales 20 years. You are Professor of Human Immunology and Head of the Medical School at Swansea University in Wales, UK. Can you tell us a bit about what these roles entail? My role is varied between research, teaching, and management/administration. Research is focused on immunology, especially studying the immune response in pregnancy: how it changes in pregnant women, how pregnant women respond to infections and noninfections such as air pollution, how this affects the immune system of the baby and what this means for the baby’s susceptibility to disease in childhood. I also teach immunology to Bachelor of Science students and medical students at Swansea University, and supervise PhD students doing research in my specialty area. I am currently Head of the Medical School at Swansea University which means much of my time at the moment is the day-to-day oversight of that – around 400 staff and over 2000 students across a variety of degrees including Medicine, Pharmacy, BSc, MSc and PhD. What has been your journey since graduating from St Mary’s? On graduating from St Mary’s, I undertook a BSc (Hons) at the University of Tasmania. After a couple of years working as a research assistant in Hobart I moved to Adelaide and eventually undertook at PhD at Flinders University. On completing my PhD, I was awarded a fellowship from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH&MRC) that took me to the University of Southampton in the UK and to the University of Western Australia for a little while as well. In 2003, I took up a Senior Lecturer position at Swansea University that enabled me to continue research and do more teaching. I was then promoted to Reader in 2009 and then Professor in 2014. After time as Deputy Head of the Medical School, I became Head of School in 2021. I also had a couple of children along the way – my first son was born while I was a Senior Lecturer (2005) and the second just before I got promoted to Reader (2009). In fact, the community midwife was on her routine visit to me in the few weeks after the birth of my second son when I got the phone call to say I had been promoted.

Professor Cathy Thornton.

Why are you so passionate about the field you’ve chosen? It helps to satisfy my interest in science, my curiosity and my creativity while also trying to benefit society more widely by having a better understanding of how health and disease can underpin interventions and new treatments. Planning and delivering experiments that provide you with insights and answer your research questions – even if the answer is negative – is a real thrill. Over the years, I also find myself enjoying the teaching element of my role more and more – watching students come to be fascinated by science and the immune system especially. I have always enjoyed watching my PhD students develop into fabulous researchers and build their own careers. What has been the highlight of your career so far? I have a few – getting my PhD, being awarded the NH&MRC fellowship that really set my career on its way and becoming a professor. Who or what is your main source of inspiration? Also a few, including my mum and dad. Like a typical teenager, I didn’t appreciate until much later the important role my mum played in making me who I am today, not least of all encouraging me through school and university to pursue a career, and it was my dad who really instilled a love of science in me through rock pooling and beach exploring when I was young. Today it is my own family – including my ‘work family’ – kind, generous, dedicated, insightful people who inspire me every day.

S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

Staying in touch with our alumni

Cathy Thornton profile continued. What advice would you give to students considering a career in your chosen field? If you are interested in science, especially biology – think beyond medicine, investigate the various other opportunities that might be available to you. I felt very strongly that I didn’t want to do medicine and my BSc (Hons) has led me on a very typical academic trajectory, but there are so many other options based on your interests, the work experience that you get along the way, the postgraduate study that you choose to do and the things you encounter on your personal journey. What are some of your fondest memories of your time as a student at the College? •

Cooking and sewing lessons – I still love to sew (and cook) and now make most of my own clothes.

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Computer lessons – they were just being introduced! We were lucky that dad was also interested in these new-fangled home computers, so I was able to do ‘homework’.

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Playing netball and softball for the school.

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I was Head Prefect and Dux in Year 12, 1984.

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Traipsing up the hill to St Virgil’s for Biology, Chemistry and Physics in Year 11 –of course, it was a usually a pain at the time.

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Australia winning the America’s Cup in 1983 and Bob Hawke’s reaction – I recollect listening to it at school as it was played over the speakers (but I could be wrong, and it might have been a replay/just the general celebration).

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Mum working in the tuckshop.

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Liturgical dance.

St Mary’s College Prefects of 1984.

Keep in touch with us! Let us know what you've been up to and we'd be happy to share your story. Stay up to date on our social channels by joining our Alumni Facebook group and following us on Instagram. If your details need updating, please contact us so we know where to reach you via post and email. Be sure to connect with our team if you are organising a reunion in 2024 and we can support your event!

Your sisters, Elizabeth Jones (class of 1987), Claire Jones (class of 1995) and Bernadette Jones (class of 1992) also attended St Mary’s College. Do you have any recollections of this time together?

Facebook: St Mary's College Alumni, Hobart, Tasmania

There is 11 years' difference between me and Claire, so when I was in Year 12, she was in Year 1 and used to come into the classroom before school to visit us all; I never had to wear hand-me-downs, and Mum worked in the tuckshop a lot and was involved in other aspects of the school community, so she was also a big part of my recollection of attending school together.

Email any contact details, updates or reunion info to communications@smc.tas.edu.au.

Instagram: smc_alumni

Today, Elizabeth is an Emergency Medicine specialist working in Warrnambool, Bernadette is a librarian working at University of Technology Sydney and Claire is a Commander in the Royal Australian Navy.

S T M A RY ’ S C O L L E G E A L M A M AT E R D E C E M B E R 2023

ST MARY'S COLLEGE

164 Harrington Street, Hobart, TAS 7000 (03) 6108 2560 stmarys@smc.tas.edu.au www.smc.tas.edu.au ABN 70 118 296 643