Vol 33 No 3 October 2018
FROM THE SCHOOL COUNCIL With Term 4 underway, the end of the year is now in sight. Making 2018 a success for every boy has been the core thought guiding our actions. For our Year 12 boys, this term brings down the curtain on their school days and a date with VCE exams. Every Old Boy, parent and teacher has memories of this unique time in their own lives. Our sincere wish is that our Year 12s exceed their own expectations. Term 3 was a very busy one for School Council. Extensive engagement activities have been conducted via parent forums, events, Conversations with Council, and other activities. Several key themes were consistent: the importance of Trinity’s staff and our need to support, retain and attract staff of the highest quality; the value of an holistic education and the desire for an approach that supports academic excellence and helps develop a well-balanced, resilient young man; taking time to reflect on the pros and cons of existing plans to increase the school size; and, providing the best support to our Year 12s. The process of recruiting the 12th Head of Trinity has commenced and there will be more news on this in the coming months. We are seeking a high-quality educational leader with strong character alignment to Trinity’s values and a proven track record across all the necessary competencies and capabilities within relevant modern educational institutions. Work to address identified flaws in the School’s constitution is now well underway. There will be opportunities for interested members of our community to involve themselves in this work in Term 4.
In August, we announced our intention to enlist Trinity as a participating institution in the National Redress Scheme (NRS), which will provide support to people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse. The NRS is a government-led response to the recent Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, and Trinity’s participation in the NRS will be coordinated through the Anglican Church. As we noted at that time, the decision to join the NRS is a clear statement about where Trinity stands on the issue of child sexual abuse. It is abhorrent, and we acknowledge the catastrophic impact it has on the lives of those abused, and their friends and families. There is no place for it at Trinity nor, indeed, anywhere in our society. We appreciate the statement of support from the Old Trinity Grammarians’ Association surrounding this decision. Past events remain a constant reminder to all members of the Trinity community that we must be ever vigilant in protecting those in our care. Anyone who has grievances or concerns is encouraged to contact our Headmaster, Phil De Young. We are extremely grateful for the continued support of everyone in the Trinity community and we welcome your feedback and ideas. Please contact us at schoolcouncil@trinity.vic.edu.au
JOHN GILLAM Chairman of School Council
In September we were delighted to welcome Simon Gipson onto the School Council. Simon was the Head of St Michael’s Grammar School, St Kilda, for 18 years and he is currently the CEO of The Song Room, a national not-for-profit organisation. He is a highly respected educator and a valuable addition to Council.
Trinity’s Bulleen Playing Fields
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FROM THE HEADMASTER
Phil De Young and Genevieve Read with Year 12 students who started at the ELC and also some of this year’s ELC students
We all know about the ‘Three Rs’ of education: Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. In today’s educational jargon it goes by many other names, the most common being Literacy and Numeracy. Essentially, that’s what schools are about: providing young people with the requisite technical skills to enable them to lead fulfilling lives, particularly their working lives.
and cleaning up, and to spend long periods of time with a diverse range of people. This provides each student with opportunities to reflect on how they interact with others and how to modify their behaviour for the betterment not only of themselves, but of those around them. That is, it requires them to be respectful of others in often uncomfortable and stressful circumstances.
At Trinity, we pride ourselves on delivering these three Rs. However, our focus is on the all-round development of our students: their academic growth, their pastoral care and their co-curricular extension.
It is also quite amazing to see close relationships forged on school camps. Faced with adversity, boys bond in a way that is different from friendships made in the classroom. When I attend reunions, I rarely hear mates talk about the day they discovered the wonders of quadratic equations, but I hear endless tales of days and nights in the bush and of fanciful and obviously grossly exaggerated accomplishments in the great outdoors. In addition, senior students acting as leaders on Year 7 and 8 programs, not only mentor and support the junior boys, but model constructive relationship development and establish cross generational friendships. These relationships then extend across the entire School, helping to bring all our boys together as a connected and cohesive community.
It is in this context that I want to talk about three other vitally important Rs: Resilience, Respect, and Relationships. And in doing so, to emphasise the role Outdoor Education plays in developing these attributes in Trinity boys. We have a responsibility to encourage our boys to step outside their comfort zones and confront personal challenges. It is through these challenges that they learn about themselves and others and become emboldened to implement positive change in their lives. The School’s Outdoor Education program certainly sets challenges, thereby enhancing resilience; building respect for self, others and the environment; and facilitating relationship building. I recently visited a group of Year 9s at our Licola property. It was a cold and windy day and the boys were preparing for their ‘solo’ experience: a night on their own under a bivvy sheet. They were in fine spirit, but a little nervous about the ordeal ahead. I am pleased to advise that, to a boy, they survived, and I am confident that for all of them, their resilience grew, as did their self-confidence. And that will assist them in the years ahead, when undoubtedly, they will face tough times. Similarly, the Trinity Outdoor Education experiences in the secondary years (compulsory in Years 7 to 10) place our boys in situations whereby they are required to complete the domestic tasks of meal preparation
Following the completion of the recent Year 9 camps at Licola, our Director of Outdoor Education, Bill Cleary, asked the boys to reflect on their experiences. Amongst others, the following were consistently expressed as highlights: the mateship and relationship development between peers; the satisfaction of facing challenges and the reward for perseverance; and the opportunity to be self-reliant and independent. In conclusion, let’s recognise the importance of all six Rs and the vital role played by the Trinity Outdoor Education program.
PHIL DE YOUNG Headmaster
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A BROADER PERSPECTIVE ‘The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes, but in having new eyes.’ - Marcel Proust, French novelist
Some of the Year 9s in Shanghai
‘New eyes’ can be developed in many ways. You do not always need to travel abroad to discover other ways of seeing the world. It is possible to gain a broader perspective by keeping your eyes and ears open to opportunities right here at Trinity. The School constantly seeks to stimulate and inspire students and to encourage them to embrace knowledge, innovation and experience. Our students are exposed to new ways of looking through the comprehensive range of curriculum offerings, and also via the myriad events held at the School. These latter showcase people in the community with inquiring minds and expertise in their fields. Recently, Trinity was fortunate to host both a Science and a Commerce Colloquium. At the Commerce Colloquium, held in Arnold Hall, Masters of Ceremony and Year 12 students, Leo Contos and Jack Lear, introduced a panel of distinguished guests to an audience of students, parents and staff. Refugee educator, Lizzy Kuoth; the Hon Kevin Andrews MP; magistrate Julian Ayres; and John Pesutto MP, Shadow Attorney General for Victoria, addressed topical issues as diverse as dual citizenship, and whether Australia becoming a republic would solve the Australia Day dispute. Following the presentations, the boys posed thought-provoking questions to each presenter as part of an interactive Q and A session. Head of Commerce, Darren Sellers, hopes this event will develop the boys’ perspectives on a range of contemporary issues and illuminate potential career paths in social justice, politics and the law.
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Later in Term 2, attendees at the Science Colloquium were captivated by the presentations of two eminent research scientists. Professor Peter Barlis, interventional cardiologist at St Vincent’s Hospital and Professor of Medicine at Melbourne University, addressed STEM innovations to tackle heart disease, and Emeritus Professor Alan Trounson, of the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, discussed his research in the area of IVF, stem cells and cancer. Trinity’s Head of Science, Neil Van Herk, believes the popularity of this event with the Trinity community and the thoughtful questions posed to the presenters, demonstrate the boys’ strong interest in and engagement with science. In August, Trinity was fortunate to host Australian Children’s Laureate, author Morris Gleitzman, who came to the School to speak about his life, his career as an author and his passion for reading. Students and parents were delighted to listen to Morris extolling the importance of stories for developing resilience and optimism in our young people. At the Harambee Dinner, boys from the Junior and Senior Schools welcomed parents, staff, and visitors from the outreach ministries supported by the School. Everyone combined to enjoy delicious food and some wonderful harmonies from the musicians and singers of the Good Grub Choir. Tom Purcell, Trinity’s Director of Outreach, is a believer in the concept of ‘walking together’ with the less advantaged in our society and he lives this philosophy every day. The Harambee Dinner is a forum where everyone in the Trinity community can follow Tom’s lead and interact meaningfully, while raising funds to benefit those in need.
At the Commerce Colloquium
Alex Colussa, Neil Van Herk, Max Alder and Keegan Vickers with Professor Peter Barlis and Emeritus Professor Alan Trounson
English teacher, Mitch Furi, interviews Morris Gleitzman
During Terms 2 and 3, Trinity’s numbers swell slightly with an influx of exchange students from countries as diverse as France and South Africa. It always seems rather cruel that the structure of the school year determines they must visit Melbourne in the midst of winter, but they never seem to mind very much. They bring new eyes to our School; everything we do is measured against what happens ‘back home’.
French exchange students Noé Perrin, Matteo Boyer, Noé Norman, Mathis Foret, Benjamin Vandame and Edgar Fougerousse
French exchange student, Benjamin, was an active participant in Year 10 History classes. He provided invaluable assistance to the teacher, who invited him to pronounce, in his perfect accent, all the French words, as the class studied the causes, nature and impact of the French Revolution. Benjamin felt that he learned more about this period of French history in Australia than he had in France! When our boys travel abroad to expand their own cultural horizons, we hope they are as open-minded as Benjamin and eager to soak up all they can from the people and regions they visit. Year 11 student, Stanley Chen, took up this challenge when he travelled to England at the end of Year 10 to spend time at Oakham School. Stanley admits that he had polite British stereotypes in mind, but he found the English friendlier and warmer (the people, not the weather, he quipped!) than expected. While Stanley enjoyed himself enormously in the UK, he found hosting his English exchange equally rewarding. He believes he developed greater maturity and empathy as he had to be ‘responsible for someone else and see my world through their eyes. It was like having another family member and it was great having someone my age to discuss things with as they happened.’
Boys from the Junior School, wearing ties made by women in east Africa, were involved in organising the Harambee Dinner
In addition to trying to bring the world to Trinity, our staff also create countless opportunities for students to travel outside the comfort of School. As well as cultural and language tours and exchanges, there are sporting tours, the Kokoda trip, the China Experience, outreach immersions, and in September this year, for the first time, a European Music Tour, which we will no doubt hear all about in the next edition of this magazine!
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FROM THE EARLY LEARNING CENTRE
Ashton Koon, Kelly Koon and William Tobias
Nicholas Kokkinos and William Tomietto
Byron Wong and Alex Bosco
Brayden Lu
Learning about fresh fish
Miles Cerny, Marcus Chan, Bruce Sun and Kevin Sun
‘Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.’ - Benjamin Franklin At the Early Learning Centre, becoming part of our community entails many new and exciting experiences, challenges and discoveries. As the children develop in confidence and curiosity, their world broadens in terms of their awareness and understanding of the contributions they can make, and how much they can learn from those around them and their environment. Throughout Term 3, all children in the Three Year Old and Four Year Old Groups were involved in a wide range of hands-on experiences which enhanced their learning and personal growth. The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program continues to have a positive impact on our community. Maintaining a healthy and productive vegetable garden can be a challenge; however, we have many pairs of hands eager to invest ongoing care and attention into all aspects of ‘growing, harvesting, preparing and sharing’ – the underlying foundations of this philosophy. The Four Year Old Group’s Discovery Tour to a local supermarket and greengrocer introduced them to an array of rainbow-coloured fruit and vegetables. Through sight, sound, touch and smell, they discovered some unfamiliar produce and also many well-known items. They learnt where and how different fruit and vegetables grow, and the benefits of eating a wide variety of fresh food every day. Whilst on their walk, the children also observed local landmarks and discussed safety procedures. They very much enjoyed being out with their friends, parents and teachers on a beautiful, sunny Melbourne day. On their return, the ‘fruits’ of their journey were shared amongst all.
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The Three Year Old Group’s drama workshops on ‘Minibeasts’ encouraged them to use their imaginations to investigate bugs and insects living in our gardens, and to explore features, movement, life cycles and survival instincts. Using roleplay (and very clever costumes) they could pretend to be butterflies, ladybirds, slaters, caterpillars, dragonflies and worms – and learn about camouflage, pollination and the interdependence of living things. We were privileged to attend the Junior School Musical Madagascar Jr, which was a very exciting outing for the children. To be included in such an important event on the School calendar acknowledged these youngest members of our community and the children were a very appreciative and enthusiastic audience. They also enjoyed hosting dads, grandparents and friends at the annual Father’s Day Breakfasts and Grandparents’ Mornings; we hope these events provide very positive memories in the future. It is always heart-warming to listen to the children’s recollections of shared times with special family members where relationships and strong connections are nurtured. Another highlight on our calendar is the Morning Tea for Year 12 students who are ‘graduates’ of the Early Learning Centre. This year we welcomed back 15 students who were with us in 2005. The younger children were intrigued as to how they could have possibly been their age and size – and have changed so much over the intervening years! To all Year 12 students, we wish you the very best not only for your exams, but for your future studies and endeavours.
GENEVIEVE READ Director of the ELC
FROM THE JUNIOR SCHOOL House Cross Country
Hutchins Tour
In very challenging weather and ground conditions, all the competitors at the House Cross Country event for boys in Years 3 to 6 managed to navigate themselves around the Bulleen Playing Fields. Congratulations to the following boys who were the overall age group placegetters:
As the announcement of the inaugural ‘Bass Strait Shield’ approached, tensions rose for both the Trinity students and the touring Hutchins team. Prior to the announcement, three games were played between the two teams across three sports: hockey, football and soccer. As Trinity won the football match comfortably and the soccer was won by Hutchins, it was down to the hockey match. And the inaugural Bass Strait Shield went to…Hutchins!
9 Years - 1st Luca Hartnett, 2nd Alby Mahony, 3rd Frank Roodenburg 10 Years - 1st Flynn Callow-Sussex, 2nd Tate Harrison, 3rd Charlie Harris 11 Years - 1st Will Katic, 2nd Patrick Keenan, 3rd Nikki Du Toit
Establishing friendships and the mixed-team friendly match proved the highlights of the weekend. We look forward to visiting The Hutchins School in Hobart next year.
12+ Years - 1st Sam Mazzei, 2nd Ren-Hao Chan, 3rd Allan Liang The Ray Woods Junior School House Cross Country Cup results were: 1st Friend (3389), 2nd Inglis (3310), 3rd Summers (3231) and 4th Henderson (2603). The Spirit Cup was won by Friend House
Sam Geldard House Cross Country
Congratulations To William Katic - SSV State Cross Country Champion Recently, the State Schools Victoria Cross Country Championship was run at Bundoora, giving qualifying children from Metropolitan and Country Victorian state schools an opportunity to compete at this elite level of competition. Year 5 student, William Katic, who competed at the 2017 championship, once again qualified for this event. This year William won the Boys’ 11 Years race - a truly remarkable achievement.
Listening to the coach
William Katic – 11 Years SSV State Cross Country Champion
Playing for the Bass Strait Shield
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FROM THE JUNIOR SCHOOL Gala Concert The Junior School Gala Concert this year was held in the Hawthorn Arts Centre. It proved to be a wonderful space for performing: the environment was acoustically and aesthetically appropriate and provided the boys with the experience of performing in a real concert venue. All of the major Junior School ensembles performed and the excellent grand piano meant that we could include our Piano Trio, featuring Tom McMillan, Alexander Chieng and Noah Hodge. Other highlights included our youngest musicians, the Suzuki string players from the ELC; the newly-formed Year 3 and 4 Choir; and the wonderful Marles Orchestra. The variety and standard of music performed made the evening a delight for all involved.
IPSHA Choral Festival The boys in the Year 5 and 6 Choir thoroughly enjoyed their rehearsal and performance at the Independent Primary School Heads’ Association (IPSHA) Choral Festival at the Melbourne Town Hall. The boys had the pleasure of hearing many other primary school choirs and were exposed to a range of different repertoire and styles throughout the festival. Our choir worked hard to perform at a high standard and represented Trinity very well. All of the choirs stood together on the stage to finish, forming a massed choir of about 200 students, and creating a most memorable moment for the participants and for the audience.
At the Gala Concert
Performing at the IPSHA Choral Festival
Strings at the Gala Concert
One Arm Point When the boys from One Arm Point, a remote Aboriginal community in Western Australia, arrived at their billets’ houses, they were very shy. They were particularly quiet when they met the parents, but often seemed more confident when interacting with the Trinity students. The activity that the One Arm Point boys were most looking forward to was the AFL game at the MCG; however, on the Friday of their visit, following a long drive, there was a big surprise waiting for them. It was their first trip to the snow! After having their boots fitted and listening to a quick tutorial, they went out on the slopes. While this was a little challenging, overall, it was a great experience. The Trinity boys are very much looking forward to travelling to One Arm Point in the September school holidays.
All kitted out and ready to go!
The boys from One Arm Point hit the snow
Tired and happy after a day on the slopes
Father’s Day Breakfast On Thursday 30 August, the Junior School welcomed over 200 guests to our annual Father’s Day Breakfast. This year we had a very special ‘Minute to Win It’ theme, which created a wonderful interactive and fun experience for all fathers and their sons. Laughter filled the room as everybody challenged themselves with the different activities.
At the Father’s Day Breakfast
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MADAGASCAR JR
In late August, after two terms of rehearsals, the students of the Junior School presented the musical Madagascar Jr. The Prep-Year 2 boys opened the show with their very own performance of Giraffes Can’t Dance. Later, the audience followed the adventures of Marty, Alex, Melman and Gloria as they escaped from the New York Zoo to go to the wild. This marked the first time many boys had performed in a theatre. They greatly enjoyed the opportunity to wear their colourful costumes and to entertain the audience with their singing and dancing. THE TRINITY GRAMMARIAN | Vol 33 No 3 October 2018
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THE MIDDLE SCHOOL PLAY ‘My darling,’ she said at last, ‘Are you sure you don’t mind being a mouse for the rest of your life?’ ‘I don’t mind at all,’ I said. ‘It doesn’t matter who you are or what you look like as long as somebody loves you.’ - Roald Dahl, The Witches
The performance of Roald Dahl’s The Witches by the talented boys in Years 7 and 8 was equal parts hilarious and mesmerising! Director Stewart Lucy, assisted by Cassie Cooper, created an environment for these boys to thrive and release the performer within. Not only did the students in these year levels get up on stage, however, they were also active behind the scenes. (Almost) the entire production was organised by the students themselves. They had a hand in sound and lighting, moving sets, applying make-up, creating the posters and program, and operating front-of-house. Congratulations to the cast and crew on an impressive performance!
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THE WIZ ‘We look forward to being in the audience. Our song is ending, but the show will go on.’ - Jordie Race-Coldrey, Trinity Drama Co-Captain 2018
James Parry, Ally Denovan, Jesse Langfelder and Michael Sakinofsky in The Wiz
The Wiz was a pitch-perfect swan song for the departing Year 12s. These boys have immersed themselves in performing arts opportunities at Trinity, making friends and garnering acclaim along the way. The 2018 Trinity-Ruyton Musical, adapted from Frank L Baum’s original The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, gave the performers the opportunity to showcase their singing, dancing and comedic talents.
But, back to the Year 12s, Jordie Race-Coldrey, Jesse Langfelder, James Parry, Jack Lear and Nick Maher have been stalwarts of Trinity’s drama productions. They brought great energy to each production and are wonderful role models for the younger students. We will look out for them in the audience…
A highlight was the music – the orchestra were clearly enjoying themselves and the singers were able to belt out many familiar tunes. In particular, Ruyton’s Ally Denovan’s strong, soulful voice was scene-stealing – we look forward to hearing a lot more from this talented Year 9 student.
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MUSIC ‘It is the artists of the world, the feelers and the thinkers who will ultimately save us; who can articulate, educate, defy, insist, sing and shout the big dreams.’ - Leonard Bernstein, composer and conductor
Young musical artists from all parts of Australia travelled to Trinity Grammar School in the Term 2 holidays for the Annual Suzuki National Conference. This was an inaugural event for our School, which provided a wonderful opportunity for young musicians to meet, work, perform together, listen to one another and share musical ideas and dreams. Lifelong friendships are formed during occasions of this kind, and many Trinity students and their families took advantage of this stimulating experience. Rehearsals for the annual ‘Sing Off ’ also took place in the holidays. This event, held in Term 3 at Genazzano, saw Trinity and Genazzano students combine in song and dance to win their section of the competition - with all funds donated to Yooralla. The Junior School Gala Concert was held at the Hawthorn Arts Centre. Ten ensembles including Choirs, String Ensembles, Chamber Groups, Bands and Jazz Groups enjoyed performing in the sympathetic acoustic of this iconic local venue. The Chamber Soirée featured 14 small Junior and Senior ensembles in the South Room. This event is set up in the round, to allow for a smooth transition between items and to accommodate the large number of musicians, instruments and audience. In early August, all students in Year 7 travelled to the Princess Theatre to enjoy the musical extravaganza of Mamma Mia! For many students this was their first experience of live musical theatre, and on our return journey, the buses rang with ABBA tunes! August is Recital month at Trinity. All students taking lessons and involved in School ensembles performed a solo item and were encouraged to develop their overall musicianship skills. They were required to introduce their item, perform with an accompanist, demonstrate understanding of the musical style, and then acknowledge their audience and accompanist.
There are a multitude of skills and facets contributing to the art of performance. Junior School boys came to appreciate this fact as they worked tirelessly to present the musical, Madagascar Jr. Every student in the Junior School was involved as a performer in the production, and the spectacular result was enjoyed by the audience at each of the four performances. Trinity Jazz brought August to a swingin’ end in the South Room. Junior Jazz, Augmented 7ths, Trintones, Belling Jazz, Big Band and Stage Band honed their ensemble and improvisatory skills in front of a warm audience who enjoyed the fine food and music. Intensive rehearsals continued for the Concerto Concert, which took place in early September in the South Room. Daniel Gu (flute) performed Mozart, George Mildred-Short (‘cello) performed Elgar, and William Song (clarinet) performed Weber, all with full orchestral accompaniment. Senior Strings opened the concert, and VCE students presented items from their Music Performance Recital programs. The Choral Concert was for the first time held at St Paul’s Cathedral, with the music of Leonard Bernstein as the central theme. 2018 marks the centenary of Bernstein’s birth, and so the challenging and inspiring Chichester Psalms was selected as a vehicle for musical celebration. A Bernstein Choir was formed, comprising the Junior and Senior Choirs, St Paul’s Cathedral Choir and the Community Choir, accompanied by the Trinity Symphony Orchestra. Throughout Term 3, a group of intrepid travellers rehearsed repertoire for the inaugural Trinity Grammar School European Music Tour. The tour took place in the Term 3 holidays, with our itinerary including Germany, Austria, Slovenia and Italy. All tour members formed a Choir and Instrumental Ensemble, with performances in Salzburg, Melk, Vienna, Maribor and Cremona.
MICHELLE STANIC Director of Music
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THE KOKODA TOUR
The group with their guides at the end of the Trail
An Unexpected Outcome For the committed and the devoted, the Kokoda Tour is definitely the best trip Trinity Grammar School has to offer. While tackling the Kokoda Trail may seem intimidating and unsafe, I suggest this challenge is for anyone who is able in body and mind. It is undeniable that, in our group, there were some injuries and many found it physically and mentally hard; however, I was inspired by my peers, the more mature trekkers in our group, and the local guides. The walk was definitely the most fun and challenging experience I have had at Trinity - so far. Due to our perseverance and resilience, we completed the 100 kilometre Trail, lost weight (those who needed to!) and improved our fitness. The determination and grit that got us through was triggered by our initial decision to walk the Trail. We were also very lucky to have a number of Trinity staff and Year 11 fathers accompanying us on the trip. I would particularly like to thank Mark Pilkington who brought out the best out in everyone, especially me.
At the village of Menari, after another day of walking for six or seven hours, resting and being exhausted, Mark introduced an activity where we each delivered a short speech about ourselves. In this way, the group would get to know each other better. Everyone talked about their reasons for participating in the Kokoda Tour. They said they came because they were inspired by others who had completed the trek; they wanted to learn more about its history; they wanted to challenge themselves; or (someone who shall remain anonymous) said he wanted his old man to lose some weight. But I was different. I said, ‘As you all know, I am quiet, shy, and lacking in confidence at school, but when I am at camp, I feel like I am me. I feel brave, loud and happy, and I want to be like that more often.’ After that, I excused myself from the group and retreated to my tent, feeling embarrassed, afraid and sad about what I had revealed. But then, everyone supported me, told me that I was brave, wise and very kind, and helped me to become a better person. I will finish this piece here, promising you that Kokoda is more than just a walk. Due to the trip, I have become more confident and less shy and quiet. RICHARD TON Year 11
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WINTER SPORT IN FOCUS STOP PRESS ! Trinity’s Athletics team has won the AGSV Athletics Championship for the 11th year in a row
The First XI Soccer team - 2018 AGSV Champions
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TRINITY CONGRATULATES... Sport Hamish Jobling (Year 10) achieved gold and bronze medals at the National Karate Championships Year 5 student, Benjamin Silva, represented Australia at the 2018 World Futsal Championships held in Orlando (USA) in July. Benjamin and his U12 Futsal Club team brought home bronze medals. The Australian team with their medals - Hadyn is second from left
Hadyn Tang (Year 9) represented Australia at the International Maths Olympiad (IMO) in Romania. Hadyn was the youngest member of the team, and was awarded a silver medal in the contest – a remarkable achievement!
Year 12 students, Tom Mills and Alexander Smart, were selected for the Victorian U18 Touch Football Squad. In the State Fencing Championships, Robinson Zhang was awarded a gold medal for his performance in the U13 Epee, and Gordon Li won a bronze medal in U13 Foil.
The team of six was selected from an annual program of competitions, training schools and mentoring organised by the Australian Mathematics Trust. In the two-day IMO contest, students attempted to solve three problems per day over four and a half hours. The Australian team’s medal count was two gold, three silver and one bronze, positioning Australia at number 11 in the country rankings at the contest. According to Australian Mathematics Trust CEO, Nathan Ford: ‘Problem solving is and will continue to be one of the most important skills we can develop in our students. It is wonderful to see Australian students demonstrating excellence in this area at such a high level. The team’s performance is a credit to their hard work and perseverance.’
Year 10 students, William Browning, Rishov Doloi and Finn Horan, have been accepted into the Monash Scholars Class of 2018-2020.
Year 11 student, Angus Wicks, travelled to Canada to play in the Australian U20 Ultimate Frisbee team. Liam Henderson (Year 9) will play for the Victorian U16 Hockey team. Each year at House Athletics, the School’s best runners compete in the Open 3000m for the Simon Malaspina Perpetual Trophy. In 2018, Year 12 student, Tom Sellwood, won the race for the second year in a row.
Samuel Li, of Year 11, was recently awarded the AMEB Licentiate Diploma on Violin (with distinction). Music Co-Captain, Rocky Zhou, played tuba in the Bishop Orchestra at the State Music Camp during the holidays, culminating in a final concert featuring works by Glinka and Sibelius. Lachlan Chen, of Year 8, played violin in the Australian Chamber Orchestra Academy Program during the holidays, with a final concert featuring works by Purcell, Tchaikovsky, Bloch, and Respighi.
Headmaster Phil De Young presented Tom Sellwood with the Simon Malaspina Perpetual Trophy
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TRINITY COMMUNITY David Sanguinetti – 50 years of service to Trinity It is hard to believe, but leafy Kew in 1968 was apparently a bit wild on a Saturday night, courtesy of those who frequented the Q Club (a nightclub in the Kew Civic Centre, now the Centre for the Arts). That was the year David Sanguinetti joined the Trinity staff as caretaker and groundsman at the Kew campus. David lived at 64 Wellington Street, next door to the former Arnold Hall. He was responsible for locking the School each night and unlocking it in the morning. He recalls that there was no master key; every lock to every room had its own key, so he needed to carry two huge bunches of keys as he made his rounds.
Congratulations, David!
In 1975, when Bill Vanthoff retired, David became Trinity’s curator. The construction of the Trinity Pool in 1980 necessitated a move to another School property in Stanley Street. Apparently, the Xavier boarders had been holding pool parties after hours… Pre-Bulleen, David spent each Friday travelling around Melbourne marking up various surfaces (including those at Macleay Park and at the Kew Cottages) ready for the boys to play sport on Saturday morning. In 1981, when the School purchased land at Bulleen, David moved there to look after that property. He has lived at Bulleen for almost 40 years now and clearly adores it. David knows every inch of its 62 acres. When he first arrived, the area was just dirt, but in the early 1980s, over 3000 trees were planted – each boy had a tree. Former staff member, John Wootton, had a map containing each boy’s name and the location of his tree. Today, Bulleen is a lush, green oasis.
David Sanguinetti, Don Marles, Gordon Just and Murray Verso in 2003 marking 20 years of Bulleen
In terms of buildings, there was nothing at Bulleen until the mid-1980s when the change rooms and the Cohen Room were constructed. In 2001, a synthetic hockey pitch was laid, but, essentially, the property has remained largely untouched. It is one of five campuses (Kew, Eppalock, Nillahcootie and Licola being the others), and David agrees with Don Marles that Bulleen is ‘the jewel in Trinity’s crown’. Trinity is very fortunate to have such a loyal and steadfast employee as David. His knowledge of Bulleen, and of the School, is vast, built over years of experience. We thank David for his commitment and congratulate him on this amazing achievement.
Bloody Long Walk On the last weekend in August, fortunately on one of those beautiful, crisp, Melbourne mornings, 65 Trinity students and staff set off on the 35km Bloody Long Walk to raise much-needed funds for the Mito Foundation. This is a cause close to the hearts of many boys as, in January this year, fellow Year 12 student, Hugh Blunt, was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disease. On the day, the Trinity boys sang and chatted their way along the course, which ran from Yarra Bend Park to the St Kilda Sea Baths. There was a marvellous sense of camaraderie, and walkers were greeted at different stages by Trinity staff handing out lollies and drinks. We are grateful to organiser, Year 12 student, Hugo Miric; to all the walkers; and to those who supported them with donations – as the Trinity group raised almost $15,000.
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Year 12 students and staff at the start of the Bloody Long Walk
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From the Parents’ Association The PA is working hard to ensure that it meets the needs of the many new members who joined in 2018, as well as the wider School community. We are reviewing our rules and the way we operate within them, in order to function in a transparent, accountable and compliant manner. One of our key aims is to support those sub-committees which represent the PA within the community, but operate in a speciality area of need or interest within the School. We are always interested in hearing feedback about how we can better support these groups, and are working to ensure information and support is provided so that all can benefit. Recent PA grants to sub-committees have included the funding of a new tent for the Cowey Rowing Club, and proposed funding of new computers for the digital arts. We are also looking to cross-promote PA and sub-committee events and to provide a single source of information for all parents regarding meetings and activities.
It is great to see everyone back at School reinvigorated and settling into a new era of Trinity leadership. The Parents’ Association (PA) recently welcomed the new Headmaster, Phil DeYoung, as our latest Member. He has an automatic place on the PA as one of two Ex-Officio (School) Members of the Committee, and we look forward to working with him to continue the close relationship between the PA and the School. This longstanding partnership ensures that any events or fundraising conducted by the PA align closely with the needs and expectations of the School.
For many years, those who operate the Second-hand Uniform Shop have been working away, sorting, itemising, pricing, and selling the uniforms that no longer fit our seemingly ever-growing boys. That work is a huge contributor to the literal fabric of the community, and raises significant funds each year. In fact, over the past ten years, the Uniform Shop has raised more than $200,000! We are enormously grateful to those members of our community who have dedicated their time and expertise to the Uniform Shop, a much-valued resource in our School. These funds will be used to provide many new items and incentives that will directly benefit the boys now and in the coming years. In 2018, a shadecloth for the Junior School sandpit, outdoor seating for the Senior School, new sailboats/canoes for the Eppalock/ Nillahcootie Outdoor Education program, seating at the Marles Playing Fields (Bulleen), new music equipment, digital SLR cameras for the Art Department, and an emergency shelter at Licola, will all be funded due to the great work of the volunteers in the Uniform Shop. We look forward to bringing you pictures of many of these new items over the coming months, as they are purchased and installed. EDWARD GRIFFITHS President of the Parents’ Association
White Ribbon Event - Respectful Relationships In August, the Year 12s hosted Trinity’s inaugural White Ribbon Event to raise funds for this worthwhile cause. Approximately 250 students, from Trinity and neighbouring schools, attended the event, organised by Zac Sumarno and Jake Helder. Jordie Race-Coldrey addressed the attendees and here is a small excerpt from his speech: ‘To the women here today, As a man, I will never be able to experience the fears you face each day, but I will walk with you. As a man, I will never be able to understand what it is like to have to fight to be heard in the way you do, but I will listen. As a man, I will never know just how hard it is for you to be strong when it feels like equality seems so far away, but I will proudly call myself a feminist and find strength with you. The reality is, this community is a long way from equality, but that doesn’t mean we give up.’
At the White Ribbon event organised by the Year 12s
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FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE OLD TRINITY GRAMMARIANS’ ASSOCIATION The Old Trinity Grammarians’ Association (OTGA) enjoys the privilege of being coupled, culturally and financially, with Trinity Grammar School. Once again, we express our thanks for our annual grant and look forward to continuing our support of the School and Old Trinity Grammarians (OTGs) through contribution and participation in events at the School and, of course, through our OTG clubs. It is pleasing to see School Council’s energy and availability, particularly the presence of Council members at the many Trinity and OTGA events. School Council encourages OTGs to introduce themselves and its members are genuinely interested in hearing OTGs’ views and aspirations for the School. The OTGA Committee thanks John Grover (OTG 1979) for his role on School Council as our immediate past-OTGA-nominated representative. He was a tower of strength during the recent unrest and represented the OTGA diligently without fear or favour. Our new nominee, Tom Hudson (OTG 2006), provides a much younger voice on Council, and will work alongside Don Campbell (OTG 1972). Reccently, some members of the OTGA Committee attended a graceful and inclusive event commissioning our eleventh Headmaster, Phil De Young.
OTGA CBD Lunch At the CBD Lunch, we were addressed by School Council Chairman, John Gillam, and Headmaster, Phil De Young, who also graciously took and humorously answered questions from the floor. I was particularly pleased to note the clear focus of both the Headmaster and School Council Chairman on the direction and future of our School, with the unequivocal number one priority being the education of the boys. Our School is clearly in good hands. This was a great opportunity for many of our community members to reconnect with old friends and it was terrific to see so many new faces. Our thanks go to John and Phil and the members of Council who joined us on the day.
Old Trinity Grammarians’ Facebook
Denis Curnow (OTG 2017) and James Brown (OTG 1992) have assumed responsibility for the OTGA Facebook page. They welcome the contribution of content to ensure the page is active and regularly refreshed with new topics.
• The OTGA published a letter supporting the School Council on its decision to join the National Redress Scheme for victims of institutional child abuse. A copy of this letter is included in this issue of the Grammarian (on Page 19). • Peter Lewis organised the inaugural entry of an Old Trinity Rugby team at the Old Schools’ Competition Day, a round robin competition held at Scotch. Forty Old Boys did us proud and the day was considered a great success with a fantastic turnout. Not one injury - can you believe it? Check out the Facebook page for photos and a video of the big day. • If you run a business, consider using the OTGA Facebook page to mention any employment positions in your firm that would suit a young OTGA looking for a new opportunity.
OTGA Bar at the Fair – Sunday 18 November
Even the disastrous weather event at the Fair in 2017 has not deterred us from undertaking the task of running the bar again this year. If you are in the vicinity, please come up, say hello and let us know which year you finished. We are also happy for any OTGs who may wish to contribute an hour or two of their time towards the day’s success to help out behind the OTGA Bar.
Sub-committees to School Council
The OTGA was invited to nominate Old Boys to sit on two very important sub-committees created by School Council that will influence the shape and culture of our School in years to come. For the Engagement Sub-committee, we nominated Eddie Gibbons (OTG 1994) and Denis Curnow (OTG 2017). We are represented on the Governance Sub-committee by Rod DeBoos (OTG 1966) and Tim Kelly (OTG 1999). We are grateful to those four OTGs for the time they will invest in the future of our School. Keeping in Touch – please check the School has your current details by contacting Hudson House on 9854 3668 or by email otg@trinity.vic.edu.au DAVID BAUMGARTNER (OTG 1979) President
Topics of interest posted on Facebook in recent times include:
OLD TRINITY GRAMMARIANS’ ASSOCIATION NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tuesday 13 November 2018 at 8.00pm Hudson House, 53 Wellington Street, Kew All welcome
AGENDA President’s Report • Treasurer’s Report • Election Of Office Bearers • Other Business
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OTG FOUNDERS’ DAY ASSEMBLY Wednesday 14 November 2018 The Headmaster, Phil de Young, invites Old Boys and past members of staff to the Annual OTG Founders’ Day Assembly, which will take place in the McIntyre Gym on Wednesday 14 November from 2.15pm. Afternoon tea and drinks will be served afterwards. To ensure you receive your invitation, please contact Sharon Kendall, Community Liaison Officer:
kendalls@trinity.vic.edu.au 9854 3668
OLD TRINITY GRAMMARIANS’ ASSOCIATION INC.
Dear Members of the Old Trinity Grammarians’ Community The Old Trinity Grammarians’ Association (OTGA) wholeheartedly supports the interim School Council for its decision to join the National Redress Scheme for victims of institutional child sexual abuse. It is a positive first step on a longer journey our community must take to better understand and deal with the heartbreaking accounts of sexual abuse and harassment which have had a devastating impact on the lives of some former students. We join the school in affirming that this behaviour is unacceptable and abhorrent and should never have been allowed to occur. We acknowledge that some Old Trinity Grammarians may be confused by the contradictory nature of statements previously released by the school. Mindful of the sensitivity and respect that must be shown to the individuals and families affected, we hope in due course as part of this healing process, that Trinity Grammar School is able to provide additional clarity around these historical acts of abuse which have devastatingly impacted the lives of the abused, their family and friends. If you would like to report anything of this nature to the school or receive some counselling, please ring Trinity Grammar School and ask to speak to the Headmaster, Phil De Young on 9854 3600. Alternatively, Phil can be reached by email deyoungp@trinity.vic.edu.au. On behalf of the Old Trinity Grammarians’ Association David Baumgartner
Miles Beamish
James Brown
Peter Casey
Denis Curnow
Eddie Gibbons
Leigh Hodges
Jeff Hooper
Thomas Hudson
Jun Kim
Duncan Moore
Alex Paterson
Tim Sharp
Marcus Yip
OLD TRINITY GRAMMARIANS’ ASSOCIATION INC. Registration No: A0027696C
40 Charles Street, Kew, Victoria 3101. Telephone: (03) 9854 3600 Facsimile: (03) 9854 3685 Email: otga@trinity.vic.edu.au
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REUNIONS 2019 OTG Reunions During 2019, we look forward to welcoming back the following year groups for their respective reunions. Invitations will be sent approximately four weeks prior to the event. Please note any dates of interest and let others know about these events. We are continually updating contact details for Old Boys, so if your address has changed recently, please email otg@trinity.vic.edu.au to let us know. Please contact Sharon Kendall, Community Liaison Officer, on 9854 3668 or kendalls@trinity.vic.edu.au if you have any questions. DATE Wednesday 20 March
EVENT 2019 Gold Mitre Lunch
VENUE Peter Crawley Centre for the Arts
We will welcome the 1969 year level to the Gold Mitre Club. Friday 3 May
2009 10-Year Reunion
Peter Crawley Centre for the Arts
Friday 17 May
1999 20-Year Reunion
Peter Crawley Centre for the Arts
Friday 9 August
1989 30-Year Reunion
Peter Crawley Centre for the Arts
Friday 23 August
1979 40-Year Reunion
Peter Crawley Centre for the Arts
Wednesday 13 March
2014 Five-Year Reunion BBQ
Hudson House Garden
Wednesday 9 October
2018 One-Year Reunion BBQ
Hudson House Garden
CBD Lunch On Friday 10 August, just over 80 Old Boys met at the RACV Club for the OTGA CBD Lunch. School Council Chair, John Gillam, and Headmaster, Phil De Young, entertained those present and brought them up-to-date with life at Trinity.
Alister McNab and Toby Hines
Ben Power with Rick Tudor
Glen Ferrarotto, David Baumgartner, Eric Peck and Mark Briffa
Phil De Young, Robin Smead and Shawn Xia
Tom Hudson, Peter McIntyre and Neil Williams
Ross McDonald, Michael Goodwach and Peter Vander Sluys
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1978 - 40 Year Reunion It was great to see so many 1978 Leavers at their 40 Year Reunion Dinner. Thanks all who attended the evening, including past staff member Wal Close (OTG 1955). Some had made the journey from interstate, and Rob Neish, who provided the Toast to the School, had even travelled from overseas to be there!
The attendees at the 1978 Reunion
Enjoying dinner at the Reunion
Bradley Chapman, Bradley Weir, Russell Davis and Robert Neish
1988 - 30 Year Reunion The 30 Year Reunion Dinner was held on 10 August this year, with just over 30 Old Boys in attendance. These included 1988 School Captain, Matthew Roberts, who delivered the Toast to the School. Rohan Brown provided some insights into the Trinity of 30 years ago, while Headmaster, Phil De Young, spoke about Trinity today. Thank you to all who made the effort to come along and reconnect.
At the 1988 Reunion
Ben Davey, Darren Horrobin, Grant Harvey and Rob Phillips at the 1988 Reunion
Shaun DeLay, Andrej Kocis and Justin Wood
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OTG CLUBS Old Boys’ Rugby
OTG Football
It was great to see so many Old Boys and their families at the Kew RSL Drinks on 22 August and then again at the Old Schools’ Rugby Carnival a few days later. Both events were a terrific success and we are very keen to run these annually. Not only did Trinity defeat St Kevin’s College (5-0) and Xavier College (10-7) on the same day, but we had a list of over 40 Old Boys keen to play and strong support from non-playing Old Boys and their families.
Our Senior team had an outstanding season, reaching the preliminary final in Premier A. Congratulations to Coach Bernie Dinneen and the players. Congratulations also to Anthony Scott, who came second in the Premier Grade Best and Fairest, and Gabe Hamilton, who came fourth.
Our thanks go to Trinity’s Peter Lewis for organising the day and the social evening. We are also grateful to the Rugby Supporters’ Group, in particular, the Bland Family who supported the day and assisted with communication; and to Peter Mills and Graeme O’Keefe for the great photos and video footage. To be kept upto-date with future Old Boy Rugby events and game day video highlights, please ‘Like’ the Trinity Rugby Supporters’ facebook page and/or the Old Trinity Grammarians’ facebook page.
The Old Boys’ Rugby squad
OTG Cricket Another season is nearly upon the Old Trinity Grammarians’ Cricket Club. With two teams competing in the MCC Club XI competition (Division 1 and Division 2), season 2018/2019 is shaping up to be one of the biggest in Club history. After two semi-final disappointments last year, the Club is striving to go one step further this time around. The season will commence in midOctober and run through until late February, with a few weeks break over the Christmas and New Year period.
The U19s and the Thirds were knocked out in the first week of their respective finals campaigns, but both teams and their coaches, Dean Peters and Steven Woodward, should be pleased with relatively successful seasons. In 2019, the U19 team will benefit from an influx of Schoolboys whose talent saw the School First XVIII play off in the AGS grand final. It was also pleasing to see young Old Boys like Tom Mason, Anthony Larkey and Charlie Simondson play senior football this year. The Development team was a little inconsistent during the year, but had some very positive results in the last six weeks of the season. We thank Coach Pohl and Assistant Coach Wright, who did a difficult job well. The Women’s team also found consistency elusive, and the addition of a second Women’s team next year will thankfully end the unfortunate situation where a number of players were unable to play each week. Liam Tobin, in his second and final year as coach, worked well with Assistant Coaches Maus and Murphy. The advent of women’s football has definitely had a positive influence at Old Trinity. On behalf of the Committee, thanks to all coaches, team managers, trainers, runners, water carriers, boundary umpires, and supporters. We desperately need more volunteers, however, particularly at U19 level where Coach Peters was left to do too much on his own. It is absolutely imperative that more parents and supporters volunteer for roles in 2019, even on a rotational basis. See you at the footy! MANNY NICOLOSI President
If you are interested in donning the creams for the OTGCC, please don’t hesitate to contact either Seb Nicolosi at nicolosis@ icloud.com or Hugh Krantz at hugh.krantz@gmail.com. SEB NICOLOSI (OTG 2009)
OTG Cricket Jack Hunt
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OTG Otters (Water Polo) Now in its third year, the OTG Otters Water Polo Club has experienced continued success and growth. The Club has teams in State Leagues 3 and 6 and, with the summer season underway, both teams are expecting to play finals. In September, the Otters will reach another milestone as we send a team to compete in our first interstate tournament – the 2018 Canberra Cup. The Cup is expected to attract a high standard of competition and provide significant opportunities for the team to develop. The Otters have also continued to strengthen their ties with the Trinity community and have successfully conducted a series of six joint training sessions with the Schoolboys. We are excited by the talent and character of the boys and look forward to welcoming many of them into the Club in due course. We would also like to thank Nathan Merzvinskis, as he departs from his role as president, for all he has done to establish this Club. We wish him all the very best in his move to San Francisco. MIKE AZARNIKOW (OTG 2011) President
The Men’s Reserves team progressed in equally impressive fashion, and finished in second place on the league table. Determination, consistency at training and the implementation of a solid playing style has seen the Reserves transform into a formidable team. They are looking to continue their dominance of the league and secure yet another title. After a premiership in 2017 and progression into State League 3 in 2018, the OTGSC Women’s team, affectionately known as the Baes, has been battling fiercely to establish themselves in this much more competitive league. The Baes started the year in fine form, securing a number of convincing wins, with only one loss and one draw to report by the halfway mark. A string of quite serious and unfortunate injuries to key players, however, has hampered their title run, and they are set to finish the season off in a respectable sixth place. The Baes will no doubt come back with a vengeance in 2019! Off the field, OTGSC has celebrated a number of successful social events, most recently our renowned Trivia Night fundraiser, when a sell-out crowd of family and friends packed into the South Room for a memorable night. On the horizon are the end-of-season Presentation Night, as well as our annual Christmas winery tour. OTGSC is proud of its welcoming and friendly community and our door is always open to newcomers, so if you are interested in getting involved in soccer or know someone who is, please ask them to contact Co-Presidents Francesco Carosella (0432 702 681) or Kartik Misra (0426 233 433). Teams train Monday and Wednesday nights from 6.00pm-8.00pm at Trinity’s Bulleen Playing Fields. FRANCESCO CAROSELLA (OTG 2011) Co-President
OTG Otters after training
OTG Soccer Overall, we can reflect that 2018 has been a fantastic season at the OTGSC. The OTGSC Men’s Seniors team has had one of their best seasons, finishing third, in a competition that came down to the wire. A consistent and well-drilled game plan implemented by head coaches, John Kyrgios and Andy Skoullos, has seen the boys develop into one of the best teams OTGSC has fielded in recent history. A number of outstanding performances throughout the season from Old Boys Jack Winter, David Passaro, Lachlan Cho and Josh Del Rio helped power the Seniors to finish at the upper end of the ladder!
OTGSC vs First XI
The Women’s team
Recent recruits from Trinity’s AGSV premiership-winning First XI, Dom Cataldo (Captain) and Lino Salzano, have also helped bolster the squad. The First XI took home more silverware this season after their victory in the annual OTGSC vs First XI Cup match played at Bulleen. The First XI ran out 4-2 victors after extra time (2-2 FT). We hope to see more Old Boys and First XI players joining OTGSC in 2019.
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IN MEMORIAM Andrew Jonathan Challen (OTG 1966-68) The Trinity community was saddened to hear of the death on 16 May 2018 of Andrew Jonathan Challen. Andrew was born on 17 February 1952 and, with his two brothers Phillip and Simon, he became a boarder at Trinity. Their father, Graeme Lenton Challen, was a dental surgeon in Echuca. Andrew had attended Echuca High School before joining Trinity. The boarding house was a small community and in Andrew’s first year, he was allocated to Merritt House and enjoyed playing football for them. After leaving School, Andrew was a member of the Victorian Police Force for 32 years. He retired to Renmark in South Australia and for many years lived in his own houseboat on the Murray River. Andrew passed away at the Royal Adelaide Hospital after a long period of ill health.
Peter Russell Jones (OTG 1953-64) Peter Russell Jones was born on 15 December 1945, the son of Dr George Russell Jones, a surgeon in Nyah West. There were 54 boarders when Peter joined the Junior Dormitory in Roberts House. Peter loved sport; he played in the First XI Cricket team for three years and was awarded full colours. He was fondly remembered for taking a hat trick in both the 1963 and 1964 seasons. He was also a member of the AGSV Cricket team. In the winter months, Peter was a football umpire, collected stamps, enjoyed music and participated in the boarders’ picnic at Hanging Rock! For ten years he ran a store at Tidal River and later became a supermarket manager. Peter died on 14 August 2018 and the Trinity community sends condolences to his brother, Rodney Malcolm Jones (OTG 1956-1965).
Helen Margaret Tutt (Née Young) The Trinity community was saddened to hear of Helen Margaret Tutt’s death on 23 July 2018 at Anglesea. Helen was a parent and a steadfast worker for our School as a long-serving member of Trinity’s School Council. Management of independent schools like Trinity Grammar requires expertise, wisdom, and careful planning. Helen Tutt possessed these qualities in abundance. An only child of a Presbyterian minister and a mother who worked as librarian at Fintona Girls’ School, Helen was imbued with a sense of service.
Helen considered it imperative to strive continually to develop and improve academic programs and school facilities. From 19952009, she served as Vice-President of Council, working on five sub-committees and chairing the School Archives and History Committee. She was pivotal in the building of the Peter Crawley Centre for the Arts (1998) and the Early Learning Centre (1999). Helen was also instrumental in the continued development of Bulleen and, keen to promote hockey, she facilitated the installation of a synthetic hockey pitch there in 2001. Helen’s strong interest in the environment led to Trinity adopting a framework for holistic sustainability, while her passion for native vegetation influenced the landscape designs at the School. In 2006, Helen promoted the Bulleen Stormwater Harvesting Project. To recognise Helen’s most special contribution to the School, the Design Technology room in the Centre for Science, Design and Technology (2002) was named in her honour. In 2003, Helen supported the purchase of land at Licola to establish Trinity outdoor camps, and assisted with two centenary projects: The Peter McIntyre Sports Centre and the Naming Wall. In 2004, Helen participated in the formulation of a Five-Year Strategic Plan and took special care with the details for the new Junior School Owen Library. Until she retired from Council at the 2015 AGM, Helen continued to be actively involved. She planned the details of the layout of the South Room in the Centre for the Arts in 2010 and, during 2013, took a keen interest in the plans for the Richard and Elizabeth Tudor Centre for Contemporary Learning. One of Helen’s major contributions to the School was her leadership of the Building and Grounds Committee, which she chaired until the end of 2014. Helen was a dedicated, forward-thinking member of Council, who also participated in the updating and redrafting of the School’s constitution. Generous with her time and talents, Helen Tutt held Trinity close to her heart. DR JANE MAYO CAROLAN Archivist
After an education at Methodist Ladies’ College, the University of Melbourne, and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Helen worked as a science teacher, and as a librarian at the CSIRO and later at Hammersley Iron Ore. At the time of her appointment to Council, she was the librarian at the Australasian Institute of Mining. In November 1988, when her son Tim began at Trinity, Helen became the first female to serve on the Council of Trinity Grammar School. In the same year, she established an archival centre at the School.
Helen Tutt with other School Council members in 1999
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NEWS OF OLD BOYS HUGH MENZIES (OTG 1946-57) recently made contact with us to say how reading about Trinity in the news made him reflect on ‘a simpler and, in many ways, more primitive time’ when he was at the School. After a life dedicated to writing, first in journalism (for The New York Times, Business Week and Fortune), and then freelance, he now lives in Pinehurst, North Carolina, the self-styled home of American golf. He recalls fondly his days at the School and notes that, when reading through the Grammarian magazine, he is amazed ‘at the huge steps forward the School has made over the six decades since my on-again, off-again attendance (my father was a diplomat and the family spent years abroad in Asia). The breadth and advancement of studies and sport, the diversity of the student body, the obvious quality of the teachers, the expansion of the facilities - all of it breathtaking and a credit to all involved. May the next 60 years be as rewarding and progressive to generations of students.’ Hugh visits Australia to catch up with family and friends, as well as to research his branch of the Menzies clan, whose members include the former prime minister. Congratulations to NICK PEARCE (OTG 2006-11), who was recently announced as the National Retail Association’s Retailer of the Year. Nick, who is a co-founder of the HoMie Store in Brunswick Street, will attend the National Retail Federation Big Show in New York in January 2019. If you would like to know more about how HoMie helps the community, please visit homie.com.au IAIN STUART (OTG 1966-74) has been appointed to the Council of the Royal Australian Historical Society. Since 2017, Iain has also been directing archaeological salvage excavations as part of the Sydney Light Rail and Metro Projects, as well as for some commercial developments in and around Sydney. Iain recalls ironically how he avoided Australian History in his HSC, and ignored Max Allan’s teaching of this area of history in third form. Congratulations to MARK BRIFFA (OTG 1986-98) and his wife, Katie, on the arrival of little Thomas Clifford Briffa, who was born in June.
Thomas Clifford Briffa
ANDREW STARK (former Trinity staff member 1994-06) and TRISTAN MOSS (OTG 1999-04) recently reconnected at The Southport School. Tristan is a military historian, who has spent time working at the Australian War Memorial. He is currently an Honorary Visiting Fellow at the Australian Catholic University’s Brisbane Campus and has recently published Guarding the Periphery; the Australian Army in Papua New Guinea, 1951-75. He presented a copy of his book to Andrew, who was his English teacher at School. Andrew has been working at The Southport School since 2010.
Barrie Armfield and Neil Hudson
BARRIE ARMFIELD (OTG 1956-62) became a 50-year member of the Melbourne Cricket Club and also celebrated the birth of his great grandson, Brayden. Barrie lives in Noosa and recently caught up with fellow Old Boy NEIL HUDSON (OTG 1959-62) at the MCG for the Richmond versus Collingwood match.
Congratulations to BEN COLLINS (OTG 2011-16) who was selected for the Australian Universities’ Rugby Sevens team. With his team, he competed in the World University Games in Namibia in July and came home with a silver medal.
LAURIE FORD (OTG 1950-54) completed his third Melbourne to Osaka Double-Handed Yacht Race on the Spirit of Downunder, a 12m racing yacht - at the age of 80! This was Laurie’s second race with his son, Tim (who attended Yarra Valley Grammar). Tim was coincidentally taught by Old Boys and former Trinity staff members, GEORGE WOOD (OTG 1946-48) and KEL EMMETT (OTG 1939-48) dec. Another Old Boy, GEOFF HABBEN (OTG 1953-56) dec., also a schoolmate of Laurie’s, taught Tim English. After leaving Trinity, Laurie and his brother WAYNE FORD (OTG 1950-59) went into their father’s business, CA Ford Castors, Australia (CA Ford invented the twin wheel castor in 1957). Laurie remembers playing with the Old Trinity Football Club before going to Europe in 1960. He and his wife, Judy, live in Wonga Park and have three sons. For two to three months each year, they relocate to France, where they have a barge on the French canals.
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NEWS OF OLD BOYS
Ian Armstrong
IAN ARMSTRONG (OTG 1949-60) and his wife, Mary, recently returned from a wonderful trip which included Budapest. Ian is pictured outside the Gerlett Hotel and Baths. Congratulations to JACKSON DYER (OTG 2004-09) on his marriage to Hannah in August. Three of Jackson’s OTG friends were groomsmen, ANTHONY AUSTEN WISHART (OTG 2004-09), JOSHUA EZACKIAL (OTG 2002-09) and CHRISTOPHER WEINBERG (OTG 2003-09), along with his brother MITCHELL DYER (OTG 2009-14). STEVE WOODS (OTG 1974-79) has published a 450-page book For the Record – Australian Pop Culture 1964-2017. The book contains the fun facts, figures and music in an exclusive chapter on each year. It is now available at Readings or at fortherecordbook.com.au. On a personal note, Steve has been cancer-free for five years. Steve Woods - For the Record
TIGER LIN, JUN KIM, HAMISH WEBSTER (all OTG 2011-16), LACHLAN COLLINS (OTG 2009-16) and friends have co-founded the Regional Education Support Network (RESN) which aims to provide online VCE support to regional students. The service is in its pilot stage and the group is looking for a business mentor and regional contacts who are interested in this service. You may get in touch with RESN through their website resntutoring.com ROB SMEAD (OTG 1951-59) has been volunteering in the Community Relations Office. He contacted his old school mates, John Sutcliffe, Rowan McClean and Graham Harris, to find out what they have been up to. If you would like to get in contact with Rob, he is generally in the office on Tuesdays, so please call him at Trinity on 9854 3600.
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After leaving Trinity, JOHN SUTCLIFFE (OTG 1956-61) worked in a clerical role looking after shipping accounts until 1975. After that, prior to his retirement in 2007, John joined his brother in a business selling commercial office furniture. During his last year at School, John was a boundary umpire for the Ivanhoe Amateurs, but in 1963 (following in his father’s footsteps), he switched over to the VFL Reserve Grade and worked as a field umpire. He moved up the AFL umpiring ladder with 214 games, including the 1970 grand final and replay. He now enjoys horseracing, breeding from two mares and racing the foals trained by Darren Weir. John and his wife, Jill, have two sons who attended Trinity, TIM (OTG 1982-89) and JEREMY (OTG 1984-91) and five grandchildren. ROWAN MCCLEAN (OTG 1952-62) attended Trinity from Grade 3 to Year 12, represented the School at cricket, football and athletics and was a prefect and Captain of Henty House. He played football with the Old Boys for seven years while studying and working for a chartered accounting firm in Melbourne’s CBD. He was a Business Development Officer in PNG for five years, completed an MBA at Canada’s Rowan McClean Centre for International Business, and was an Australian trade commissioner in Indonesia. Rowan’s management consultancy career included work for PA International in Melbourne, Tokyo and Jakarta; for UNCTAD and the World Trade Organisation in the Philippines, China, Pakistan, Vietnam and Australia; and for other leading consultancies, including Dench McClean Carlson, which he established. Today, Rowan is immediate past president of Rotary North Balwyn, managing trustee of the Overseas Kids Foundation (OKF) and a member of the Kew Golf Club. OKF is active in two Vietnamese communities, helping improve the lives of almost 7,000 people through education support for the poorest children, improving equipment in schools and health centres, expanding libraries, introducing English language training, providing clean drinking water, assisting the development of community centre facilities and helping introduce community development projects such as pig raising and new agricultural activities.
GRAHAM HARRIS (OTG 1949-61) reflected on his time at School. He was involved in football, cricket, tennis (The Ross Racket), softball, boxing, athletics and gymnastics and, of course, there was dancing. Graham recalls the interschool matches against Carey, Ivanhoe, Essendon, Haileybury and Assumption. He loved everything about School: the classes, the sport, the teachers and the mateship. After school, Graham played football with the Old Boys and has very fond memories of that time. He worked in his father’s butcher shop before starting his own. He eventually had a change in direction and went to work at Caltex Oil, which led to him purchasing a distributorship in Benalla. Graham is now retired and lives in Albury. He plays golf and is enjoying retirement with his wife of 30 years, Pauline. They have 17 grandchildren!
SUE FELTON INTERVIEWS In 1981, Suzanne Brimacomb became Director of Music at the School after Ken Mullens. Warwick Sharpin was the School Music Captain in that year. Suzanne offered me employment here at Trinity in 1982, teaching half a dozen piano students. I undertook a Diploma of Education and was fortunate to have lots of students here whilst I completed my studies. I did the first of two teaching rounds in Merritt House and was then offered a part-time music classroom teaching role in 1986, the same year Michelle Stanic started. I continued teaching Years 7 and 8 for around 25 years, then decided to concentrate on instrumental teaching. In many ways, I have never left the School! I was involved in starting music camps at Trinity and I ran the Chapel Choir. Those were great days; John Mackley (School Chaplain) was involved, as was Andrew Strempel (Junior School Music Teacher). I am delighted to see that the Music School is organising a tour overseas (the European Music Tour in the September holidays) and hope that it becomes a regular fixture.
Siegfried Franke (OTG 1981) was the Vice-Captain of Music and is now the School Organist and Head of Keyboard at Trinity. He teaches piano, pipe organ, music theory, and plays at the Senior School Chapel Services. Away from Trinity, Siegfried is the organist at St Paul’s Cathedral, as well at Christ Church, South Yarra.
Describe your early days at Trinity. I began at Trinity in 1974 in Year 5. I was on a St Paul’s Cathedral Scholarship and arrived a little later than everyone else. I remember the School being a lot smaller back then and I’m amazed at how well it has adapted to the limitations of space, compared to other similar schools. Music was in my blood from an early age, although neither of my parents was musical. At age nine, I had already taken up the electronic organ, something my mum had always wanted to do. I learned for two and a half years, then took up pipe organ, and later piano with June Nixon at St Paul’s. The pipe organ has always been my greater love – there is a broader variety of sounds, colours, and combinations of sound, which are evident even on our relatively small Chapel organ. I take pride in having been involved in the choice of that instrument when the Chapel was being built 25 years ago during Don Marles’ time. I recall that, in the very early stages, there was surplus money for an electronic organ. I saw a pipe organ for sale at Ian Steed’s School of Music in Doncaster for $20,000, got some ‘in the know’ people to check it out and verify it, and the School agreed to buy it. The interior plans of the Chapel needed to be slightly modified, but all up, we spent just over $40,000 for the instrument – and stayed in line with our budget. After School, from 1982-1985, I studied Music at the University of Melbourne, when Max Cooke (OTG 1939 and Gallery of Achievement member) was Dean of the Faculty of Music. EDITOR: Siobhan Latham lathams@trinity.vic.edu.au EDITOR: Siobhan Latham 9854 3600 lathams@trinity.vic.edu.au 9854 OTG3600 EDITOR: Sue Felton
FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH: Jordie Race-Coldrey, of Year 12, performs in The Wiz
Who had the greatest influence on you at Trinity? I fondly remember my Junior School teachers and mentors, especially my Year 5 teacher, Ron Ince, and my Year 6 teacher, John Watson Junior. When I was in Form 1 (Year 7), Lewis Plumridge was Head of Music. He and Mardi Spencer were very influential. The Headmaster at the time, Don Marles, was fantastic; he was always very supportive. I was allowed to walk up to Holy Trinity in Kew to practise the organ during school time, so I was really grateful for that ‘freedom’. My main non-musical pursuit when I was at Trinity was table tennis. George Liondas was our wonderful coach. I really enjoyed him as a person.
What have you taken away from your days at the School? Friendship, collegiality, respecting role models, and looking up to people. Making the most of what is on offer - the number of opportunities available to the boys is unbelievable. In my day, there were no BuIleen Playing Fields or overseas trips, for example. Do as much as you can of a variety of things. Try to get involved. Be a member of a team.
What advice would you give to young men leaving Trinity? Never forget the times and friendships that you had at School. Keep applying them to your everyday life. These experiences all shape you. Don’t forget them. I find that these experiences are even more pertinent to me now that I am a parent. My son Sebastian is currently in the ELC and absolutely adores it. There was never any other choice about where my wife and I would send our son.
BACK COVER PHOTOGRAPH: Ben Reynolds and Joshua Simos-Garner in Madagascar Jr
feltons@trinity.vic.edu.au
Many thanks to the staff, students, parents and other members of the Trinity community who provided photographs used in this publication.
THE TRINITY GRAMMARIAN | Vol 33 No 3 October 2018
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