the Link - 2020 Edition

ISSUE NO. 67 JUNE 2020

Ringwood, Victoria A CO-EDUCATIONAL SCHOOL IN THE ANGLICAN TRADITION - EARLY LEARNING TO YEAR 12

Contents 01

From the Principal

22

Other Yarra Community Groups

02

2020 Student Leaders

24

From the Archives

03

Class of 2019 Dux Assembly

25

Yarra Old Grammarian Profiles

04

Online Learning

27

Yarra Old Grammarians Football Club

05

Yarra’s Brush with Joy

28

Reunions

06

Yarra Foundation News

32

Celebrations

10

Yarra Old Grammarian News

23

Vale

20

Yarra Parents & Friends News

34

Help us Reconnect

Front Cover

Photography by Red Book Photography

Editor

Kimberley Radovanovich YVG Development Office development@yvg.vic.edu.au

If you see an image with this button, please click on it to play a video

Board Members Mr Andrew Hirst, Chairman Reverend Denise Nicholls, Vice Chairman Ms Carrie Edwards-Britt Mr Michael Fung Mr Greg Hicks Mr Hamish King Dr Larissa McLean-Davies Mrs Nicole Stevens-Warton Dr Mark Merry, CEO/Principal Ms Jane Macneil, Company Secretary

YARRA VALLEY GRAMMAR 1

From the Principal Welcome to the August 2020 edition of The Link which gives you a sense of life at Yarra in this; one of the most disrupted years in living memory.

In challenging times, we often concentrate upon those very challenges which introduce uncertainty and anxiety into our lives. In doing so we might miss noticing the many opportunities, the skills and the growth that can occur in response to these challenges. The demands placed upon our students and their teachers can accurately be described by that often overused word as “unprecedented”. In this case the word is entirely appropriate.

events, orchestras, bands and choirs performing in shared virtual spaces, community connections being maintained online and the word ‘Zoom’ taking on a whole new meaning.

Events here at home and overseas have reminded us anew that the world is not always a safe and certain place. It is up to us with long memories to reassure our students by placing these in some context and in their right perspective.

In times of crisis, we are often drawn to the negative without considering the positives which can arise from any situation. The positives as far as I can see are the magnificent ways in which our community has collectively met the challenges of this year and responded so brilliantly. The embrace of online learning, willingness to be flexible and enthusiasm to step in and contribute have all shown a strength of character and love of school.

That’s why school remains so important. In a time of uncertainty and disruption it’s the communities to which we belong that we look for reassurance and a welcome dose of normalcy. Meeting with one’s teachers every day, even if it is on a computer screen, getting involved in the Virtual House Cross Country and the various resilience events have helped to keep us all connected.

A number of things have certainly been different. We have had Open Mornings replaced by online ‘Meet the Principal’

No one wants a year like this one but there have been some welcome developments. For the first time, parents

have been able to sit in on classes (just off camera, of course) and see the great work of our teachers as they instruct, encourage and cajole our students to learn new things. Importantly too; they have seen the genuine warmth in the relationship between teacher and student and between the students themselves which characterise our school.

Our students and teachers have ‘turbo charged’ their embrace of; and proficiency in, the virtual world of learning. Skills which might usually take years to acquire have, through necessity, been learnt in a matter of weeks.

Finally, it was a sight to behold to see the level of enthusiasm with which our students bounded out of cars and buses as they returned to school after weeks of absence learning from home. I am reminded of that line from a song: “You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone…”

As a school it is always important to ask ourselves, what have we learnt? We have

learnt that students, their teachers and our school families will all ‘step up’ when we need to. We have also learnt, as we come out of social isolation, how important we all are to each other.

No one wants a year like this one, but I am reminded of that old truism: we Australians seem to be at our best when we have to be.

Dr Mark Merry Principal

YARRA VALLEY GRAMMAR

2020 Student Leaders The Commencement Service for the Secondary School was held in the first week of term in the George Wood Performing Arts Centre.

This was an opportunity to welcome our students and staff back, commission our student leaders for 2020.

Dr Merry spoke to the students about the importance of finding inspiration because an inspired person achieves more, enjoys more and contributes more by seeing life as a series of possibilities and opportunities. The success of the school year is determined by the willingness of students to participate, contribute and lead by example and inspire others.

2020 Student Leaders 2020 Student LeadersSCHOOL CAPTAINS

Congratulations to the following students on their appointment:

The Commencement Service for the Secondary School was held in the first week of Term 1 in the George Wood Performing Arts Centre.

Ben Kyval The Commencement Service forStark theour Secondary This was an opportunity to welcome students and staff back and commission our student leaders for Catriona

School was held in the first week of term in the 2020.

George Wood Performing Arts Centre.

SCHOOL CAPTAINS Dr Merry spoke to the MIDDLE students about the importance of finding inspiration because an inspired This was an opportunity to welcome our students and staff back, person achieves more,Jack enjoysCurtis more and contributes more by seeing life as a series of possibilities and commission our student leaders for 2020. opportunities. The success of the school year is determined by the willingness of students to participate, Davey Webber Dr Merry spoke the students about the importance of finding contribute andtolead by example and inspire others. inspiration because an inspired person achieves more, enjoys more and contributes more by seeing life as a series of Congratulations to theJUNIOR following students on their appointment: SCHOOL CAPTAINS possibilities and opportunities. The success of the school year is determined by the willingness of students to participate, Harrison Brown School Captains Middle contribute and lead by example and inspire School others. Captains

Junior School Captains Isabel Stoney Ben Kyval Jack Curtis Harrison Brown Congratulations to the following students on their appointment: Catriona Stark Davey Webber Isabel Stoney SCHOOL CAPTAINS

Congratulations also to our 2020 prefects, office bearers

Congratulations also toand our House 2020 prefects, office bearers House captains who all contribute invaluably captains who all willand contribute invaluably Ben Kyval to the School Catriona Stark community.

to the School community.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CAPTAINS 2

Jack Curtis Davey Webber

friends of thewere School to congratulate commitment to musical of prizes presented by the Chair of excellence, whose contributions to theor School these remarkable young adults on their activities, cultural events and Yarra Valley Grammar, Mr Andrew Hirst. sportivecommunity have been outstanding. achievements in their academic year.

We were joined by students, parents and leadership.

Class of 2019 Dux Assembly

YARRA VALLEY GRAMMAR

Class of 2019 Dux Assembly

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The criteria include superior academic friends of the School to congratulate The General Excellence awards for excellence, commitment to 2019 musical or PRESENTATION OF DUX these remarkable young adults on their were presented to Taylor Dykstra and The annual Duxand Assembly was held in February to acknowledge and sportive activities, cultural events The term Dux refers to the most congratulate those students who had achieved ATARs over 90 in the Hannahleadership.

Manning. achievements in their academic year. academically successful student in 2019 VCE year and to award the major academic prizes for the year.

The annual Dux Assembly was held in February to acknowledge and congratulate a school or division of a school. Our Duces The Excellence 2019 GREULICH those students whoOF hadDUX achieved ATARsOSSY over 90 inGeneral the 2019 VCE Presentations yearawards and to for award PRESENTATION were made to students who achieved individual study for the academic year 2019 achieved were presented AWARD to Taylor the major academic prizes for the year. MEMORIAL scoresDykstra of 40 orand above and the Dux of each subject was acknowledged.

The term Duxtop refers to theinmost amongst the very students the state.

Hannah Manning. academically successful student in who achieved They both obtained Subject awards Our of award wereand honoured with PRIZES GENERAL This Languages dedicated towinners Presentations were madeDux to students individualaward studyisscores 40 or above ACADEMIC 2019 EXCELLENCE AWARDS a certificate from the School and a number and prizes andofwith ATARs of Ducesa student of excellence who achieves aAcademic school division awas school.

Our Every year, we consider the students the Dux ofor each subject acknowledged.

OSSY GREULICHof prizes were presented•byArt (Atelier): the and Chair Design of whose contributions to the School 99.75 the Duces at Yarra Valley Grammar for the academic year 2019 achieved highly in Languages other than English in MEMORIAL AWARD Yarra Valley Grammar, Mr Andrew Hirst.

Georgia Bromell community have been outstanding. for amongst the academic were Madison 2019 the year very 2019 top students in the state.their final academic year. TheWe were Ossy joined by students, parents and The criteria include superior academic CERTIFICATES OF EXCEPTIONAL GENERAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS MARGARET DENNISTON Our award winners were honoured with a Greulich Phuah and Max Sammann.

• Business Studies (Ernst and Young): Memorial Awardaward was presented friends of the School to to congratulate They both obtained Subject Dux awards excellence, commitment to musical or This Languages is dedicated ACADEMIC PRIZES 2019 PERFORMANCE WITH STUDY Every year, we consider the students CLARKE AWARD certificate from the School and a number these remarkable young adults onSammann their Max to Eric Liu. sportive activities, cultural events and Academic prizes and ATARs student of excellence who achieves SCORES OF 50: whose contributions to the School Thisaaward is presented each year to ofand prizes were presented by with the Chair of of MARGARET DENNISTON achievements in their academic year. • Art and leadership.

Design (Atelier): • Digital Technology (Ernst and Young): 99.75 the Duces at Yarra Valley Grammar instudent Languages than the English in community have been outstanding.

YEAR 11 the highly Year 12 who other best fulfils Yarra Valley Grammar, Mr Andrew Hirst.

CLARKE AWARD CERTIFICATES OF EXCEPTIONAL Georgia TheBromell General Excellence awards for 2019 PRESENTATION OF DUX Adyn Young forwere the academic year 2019 were Madison Further Mathematics – Sean Farrar The criteria include superior academic conditions of the Rhodes Scholarship.

We joined by students, parents and their final academic year. The 2019 Ossy PERFORMANCE WITH STUDY were presented to Taylor Dykstra and This award is presented each year to The term Dux refers to the most Phuahofand Sammann.

• Madison Business Studies (Ernst or and Young):Mathematical Methods – Aditya Gandhi excellence, commitment to musical Scholastic are judged by friends theMax School to congratulate Greulich Memorial Award was presented Hannah Manning.

• English: Phuah SCORES OFachievements 50: the Year 12 student who best fulfils the academically successful student in Mathematical Methods – Benjamin Kyval sportive activities, cultural events and performance in school work as shown by these remarkable young adults on their Max Sammann to Eric Liu. a school or division of a school.

Our Duces conditions of the Rhodes Scholarship.

• Health, Outdoor, FoodGREULICH & PE: OSSY YEAR 11 achieved and by results MARGARETin DENNISTON YEAR 12 leadership.

The General Excellence awards grades on the achievements their academic year. for the academic year 2019 achieved Scholastic achievements are judged by MEMORIAL AWARD • Digital Technology (Ernst and Young): Xavier Magree Business Management, English and 2019 external VCE examinations, as reflected CLARKE AWARD amongst the very top studentsfor in the state.were presented to Taylor Dykstra CERTIFICATES OF EXCEPTIONAL Further Mathematics – Sean Farrar performance in school work as shown Adyn Young They both obtainedin Subject Dux awards – Madison and Hannah Manning. by the ATAR score.

Other contributions PRESENTATION OF DUX Phuah award is dedicated to Psychology This Languages ACADEMIC PRIZES Phuah 2019 PERFORMANCE WITH STUDY • Humanities: Madison Mathematical Methods – Aditya Gandhi This award is presented eachon year by grades achieved and by results theto and Academic prizes and with ATARs of a student of excellence who achieves Mathematical Methods – Chun (Jerry) cultural pursuits, sport and leadership are The term Dux refers to the most • English: Madison Phuah • Art and Design (Atelier): Methods Benjamin SCORES OF –50: Mathematics (Ernst and Young): the Year student who fulfils the Mathematical external VCE12 examinations, as best reflected 99.75 theKyval Duces at Yarra• Valley Grammar highly in Languages other than English in Yang Georgia Bromell OSSY GREULICH judged after consultation with teaching academically successful student in a for the academic year 2019Chun were Madison (Jerry) YangtheirOutdoor, final academic year.& The 2019 Ossy byschool the ATAR score.

Other contributions conditions of the Scholarship.

• Health, Food PE: MEMORIAL AWARD staff that are well placed to make such or division ofRhodes a school.

Our Duces YEAR 12 YEAR 11 Phuah and Max Sammann.

• Business Studies (Ernst and Young): Greulich Memorial Award was presented in for cultural pursuits, sport leadership Scholastic achievements are judged by Xavier • Performing Arts:toMagree Zachary ACADEMIC PRIZES 2019 This Languages award isLegge, dedicated to judgements. The Margaret Denniston the academic year and 2019 achieved Max Sammann Eric Liu. Business Management, English Further Mathematics – and Sean Farrar areamongst judged after consultation with as teaching MARGARET DENNISTON performance in school work shown • Art and Design (Atelier): a student of excellence who achieves Clarke Award for 2019 was presented to the very top students in the state.

Liam Bambery and Amelie Kirk • Digital Technology (Ernst and Young): • Humanities: Madison Phuah Psychology – MadisonMethods PhuahCLARKE AWARD staff that are well placed to make such Mathematical – Aditya Gandhi CERTIFICATES OF EXCEPTIONAL by grades achieved and byDux results on the Georgia Bromell highly in Languages other than English in Hannah Manning.

They both obtained Subject awards Adyn Young • Science (Ernst and Young): Mathematical MethodsMethods – Chun (Jerry) Yang PERFORMANCE WITH STUDY This award is presented each year to judgements.

The Margaret Denniston Mathematical – Benjamin Kyval • Business Studies (Ernst and Young): their final academic year.(Ernst The 2019 Ossy and Academic and with as ATARs of • Mathematics and Young): external VCEprizes examinations, reflected • English: Madison Phuah Kishan Gupta SCORES OF 50: the Year 12 student who best fulfils the Clarke Award for 2019 was presented Max Sammann Greulich Memorial Award was presented 99.75 the Duces at Yarra Valley Grammar by the ATAR score. Other contributions conditions of the Rhodes Scholarship. Chun (Jerry) Yang • Health, Outdoor, Food & PE: YEAR 12 YEAR 11 to for Hannah Manning.year 2019 were Madison • Digital Technology (Ernst and Young): to EricbyLiu. the academic Scholastic achievements are judged in cultural pursuits, sport and leadership Xavier Magree • Performing Arts: Zachary Legge, Further Mathematics – Sean Farrar Adyn Young Phuah and Max Sammann. performance in school Business Management, English and work as shown are judged after consultation with teaching • Humanities: Madison Phuah Mathematicaland Methods – Aditya Amelie KirkGandhi • English: by grades achieved and by results on theLiam Bambery Psychology – Madison Phuah staff that are well placed to make such Mathematical Methods – Benjamin Kyval • Mathematics external VCE examinations, as reflected Madison Phuah(Ernst and Young): • Science (Ernst and Young): Mathematical Methods – Chun (Jerry) Yang Chun (Jerry) Yang by the ATAR score. Other contributions judgements. The Margaret Denniston YEAR 12 • Health, Outdoor, Food & PE: in cultural pursuits, sport and leadership Kishan Gupta • Performing Arts: Zachary Legge, Clarke Award for 2019 was presented Xavier Magree Business Management, English and are judged after consultation with teaching Liam Bambery and Amelie Kirk to Hannah Manning.

Psychology – Madison Phuah • Humanities: staff that are well placed to make such • SciencePhuah (Ernst and Young): Mathematical Methods – Chun (Jerry) Yang judgements. The Margaret Denniston Madison Kishan Gupta Clarke Award for 2019 was presented • Mathematics (Ernst and Young): to Hannah Manning.

Chun (Jerry) Yang • Performing Arts: Zachary Legge, Liam Bambery and Amelie Kirk • Science (Ernst and Young): Kishan Gupta

YARRA VALLEY GRAMMAR

Click here to play the video: Year 7 and 8 Choir singing Shine, Jesus, Shine

Online Learning In March, Yarra Valley Grammar made the decision to move from an on-campus curriculum delivery to an off-site model, in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We believe this was the correct decision and were very proud to be able to deliver an excellent online tuition for all of our students.

We are very grateful to all of our students for working so hard from home under these difficult circumstances, and to all our YVG staff who made the transitions between learning models so efficient and positive.

As part of this, throughout the month of May the whole School community took part in our inaugural Virtual House Cross Country competition. The event platform enabled us to remain connected as a community whilst encouraging all of our students, staff, Yarra Old Grammarians (YOGs) and parents to get active in what was a very challenging time for all during lock down.

The event was fully emraced by our families and staff. Over the cours of the four week series we had over 950 participants take part, and together we completed over 10,000kms!

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Click here to play the video: Year 8 Colour Wheels

YARRA VALLEY GRAMMAR

Click here to play the video: Introduction to Yarra’s Brush with Joy

As our students moved to the temporary off-site, online learning model Reverend Paul Joy began releasing daily videos, Yarra’s Brush with Joy, for the students to help keep the Yarra Spirit alive.

Rev Joy films these epsiodes from various spots around the School to help our Yarra families stay connected. Each video includes ideas of positivity and encouragement across these difficult times and regularly showcases some of the creative offsite learning our students achieved.

The aim of these videos is to keep our community connected and looking after one another. It provides an opportunity for the community to interact, engage and enjoy a little burst of encouragement.

We also regularly released ‘Truth or Trick’ videos of various students and staff so we could all continue to get to know one another. We were also able to commemorate important events such as Good Friday and ANZAC Day.

Click here to play the video: Episode Year 8 Colour 35 Wheels

Click here to play the video: Episode 15, ANZAC Day 5

Click here to play the video: Episode 35

As our students have returned onsite, the videos remain in high demand and so have continued on as weekly releases.

We will also be releasing a fortnightly episode to our wider community so all of our Yarra community, past and present, can stay connected together.

We encourage you to subscribe via our website HERE to receive the fortnightly update.

Click here to play the video: Episode 19

YARRA FOUNDATION

President’s Report The last few months have been very challenging for everyone and it makes us appreciate many of the things we take for granted.

It also makes us realise the importance of the pillars in our lives such as our health, family, work and school.

This is the principle driver of the Yarra Foundation, as we endeavour to future proof our great school. All of our volunteer Board and committee members have been working hard over the last six months to help achieve this goal.

COVID-19 has highlighted to us the importance of building and securing those pillars in good times so that we can navigate more easily through the difficult times.

I know many of our current parents are doing it tough, but for many there has been little change. I would like to think that those parents who are benefiting from the School’s reduced

school fees, or those in the community who are less affected, could donate to our new YVG Education Support Fund which will help those that are really struggling.

I wish you and your families good health and look forward to getting back to normal school life in the near future.

Gary Pratt President Yarra Foundation

The aim of membership with the Yarra Foundation is to give everyone the opportunity to support the School at a level they are comfortable with. Donations at all levels are most welcome. Associate membership begins at $100.

Foundation levels of membership ASSOCIATE Member Gift totals between $100 and $999 BRONZE Member Gift totals between $1,000 and $4,999 SILVER Member Gift totals between $5,000 and $14,999

Click here to play the video: A Letter to Yarra

This is Our Story, This is Your Story, Yarra

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Join the Yarra Foundation

A letter to Yarra... is the Yarra Foundation’s new video. It tells the story of our Founders who dedicated themselves to create a vision for the School. It talks of our enduring Yarra Spirit and the place that we have for everyone to be part of the Yarra story. Watch it above.

GOLD Member Gift totals between $15,000 and $29,999 PLATINUM Member Gift totals of $30,000 or more

A way to contribute without it impacting you financially now

YARRA FOUNDATION

Yarra Valley Grammar, founded in 1966, is one of Victoria’s great co-educational schools. Yarra is wellrespected for its academic excellence, dedicated teaching staff, welcoming environment and strong Yarra Spirit. Our students are well rounded and highly aspirational; we cultivate the confidence to achieve.

Every family starting at Yarra inherits all the good work from the generosity and support of the School’s founders, past parents and supporters.

We ask that you consider making a bequest to the Yarra Valley Grammar Foundation. In doing so, you give a gift that outlives your own life and makes a difference for generations to come. It will enable initiatives and opportunities to be embraced by our students of tomorrow. It won’t impact you financially now, however, it is a way for you to contribute to the

future development of the School. Yarra would not be what it is today without the involvement of passionate and committed supporters who have donated either in their lifetime or through a bequest.

The Baldwin Circle provides an opportunity for those who wish to make a gift to Yarra in their Will to be acknowledged and honoured in their lifetime. Some gifts are large, others are small, but together they are all important to us.

This is your invitation to join the Baldwin Circle and help us to secure the financial future of Yarra Valley Grammar. We would be honoured to welcome you as a member of the Baldwin Circle. For further information, please visit www.yvg.vic.edu.au/bequests.

Showing your Yarra Spirit Giving back to Yarra in time and financial gifts is the tradition that our School was built on and a tradition we are custodians of today. It is who we have always been and will continue to be; putting our community first and foremost.

The past few months have been particularly challenging for us all - the world has certainly changed as we know it. We are delighted to have welcomed all our students back to on-site learning at Yarra. The students and staff have shown great flexibility and determination during their time of online learning/teaching and we are very proud of the adaptability and resilience that has shone through.

allow us to assist School families in need due to these challenging economic times.

In this way, you can show your Yarra Spirit and continue the tradition of putting your community first. To donate please click visit yvg.vic.edu.au/donate. We thank you for your ongoing support.

Please note that donations over $2 to the YVG Education Support Fund are tax deductible.

However, some Yarra families have been financially impacted by COVID-19. For some, there is uncertainty as to their future and the future of their child’s education. We know that times are tough for a lot of our community.

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If you are in a stronger position than many and can donate to our newly created YVG Education Support Fund, it would be greatly appreciated. This would

Click here to play the video: YVG Education Support Fund

YARRA FOUNDATION

Yarra’s Ukrainian Boys Give Back Walk into the George Wood Performing Arts Centre and there’s a beautiful little story quietly hidden amongst the seats - born of tragedy, but today a part of the Take Your Seat Giving Back campaign.

communist society to a community with great educational opportunities based on high standards and values. My life changed forever, the biggest personal transformation happened in this school.

In 1990, UNESCO and the World Scout Bureau joined forces to provide thousands of the poorest children of the Chernobyl radiation affected areas the chance of clean holiday breaks with scouting families around Europe. Australia put their hand up to join the program and in 1991, 50 Ukrainian children flew into Melbourne.

Upon returning to Ukraine, Fedor was granted early entry to University and studied International Relations but his favourite subject was “the Business”! As free market forces took over, Fedor went on to set up multiple business projects and finally found his life’s work - taking care of, and educating, children. He currently owns and runs the largest Ukrainian independent chain of Child Care and private Primary Schools under the banner “Mandarinka”!

One of those children was 13 year old Fedor Korniienko. He was hosted for six weeks by Steve Simpson’s (YOG 1972) family. Fedor was an exceptional young man. Steve and his brother Richard (Past Yarra Foundation Chair) looked for a way to offer him a year in Australia.

Fedor writes in his own words: I am one of the most grateful past students for Yarra’s attitude towards those who are in need of a better life perspective as a Yarra Year 10 graduate! That fantastic year of 1992 was possible thanks to my host families, the Simpsons, and Yarra Valley Principal at that time Mr George Wood, who granted the scholarship for this Ukrainian student coming to Australia from a very, very different world.

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I came from a bankrupt and broken

highlight of the trip to Yarra was a morning tea hosted by one of his 1992 teachers, Andrew Hocking. It was a great thrill that George and Elizabeth Wood were also able to be part of the day. Fedor particularly enjoyed his time with Junior School Principal, Chris Lawson, looking around the ELC and Junior School. Never one to miss an opportunity!

It was also at this time that an idea was born.

When Fedor and Sasha heard of the Yarra Foundation’s Take Your Seat opportunity last year, Fedor immediately decided that he wanted to give a little back for the blessings he and Sasha gained as a result of their time in the Yarra community.

Obviously I took a lot from my year at Yarra when setting up schools in Ukraine. There hasn’t been a day when I didn’t consider if we managed or not to meet standards en par with Yarra in our work.

Fedor is married to Irina and they have three children – Alexander, Lisa and Phillip. With the ongoing war in eastern Ukraine, Fedor has been able to send his family to live and study in other European countries such as Cyprus and Spain. As a result, all his children are multi-lingual.

Fedor and Ira made a trip to visit their Aussie family and Yarra in 2014. A

In 2017 this idea saw Fedor’s oldest son, 14 year old Alexander (Sasha), join Yarra for a wonderful six months. Again this was thanks to his Simpson family hosts and Yarra Valley Grammar’s wider vision. After his Australian experience, Sasha returned to Europe and followed in his father’s footsteps, concentrating his elective studies towards Business Management at the Higher National Diploma Program (HND) of Cambridge House, Valencia, Spain. Sasha reflects, “My school years were in five different countries - but the greatest impact came from my time in Australia at Yarra”.

And so now, such a little plaque on the back of the seat contains two past students’ names – and such a huge personal story.

The impact of giving, demonstrated both ways.

Richard Simpson Former Yarra Foundation President #YarraProud

Contributions The Yarra Foundation would like to thank all Yarra Community members who have contributed towards the 20 in 20 vision, to raise $20m in 20 years for Yarra’s future. This includes donations made to the Yarra Foundation’s Building Fund, YVG Hearing Unit Scholarship Fund and YVG Education Support Fund. Please note that the following list of donors is not complete as several anonymous donations were also made.

Mr Marshal and Mrs Paula Adam

Mr Stuart and Mrs Susan Dorrington

Mr Steven Kepper

Mr Josh and Mrs Leha Nemeth

Mr Frank Sun and Mrs Jean Xu

Mr Robert and Mrs Brooke Adshead

Mr Wayne and Mrs Jill Douglas

Mr Frank Koot and Mrs Esther Schouten

Mr Desmond and Mrs Shirley Ng

Mr Bin Sun and Mrs JinTao Ma

Ms Rochelle and Mss Damien Nicks

Mr Vi Tang and Mrs Thao Le

Mr Martyn and Mrs Cindy Norman

Ms Dina Tanphanich

Mrs Kylie and Mr Ben Lannan

Mr Peter Nutting and Mrs Patricia Metlika-Nutting

Mr Kai Tao and Mrs Qiyang Li

Mr Jerry Lao and Ms Portia Shu

Mr Scott and Mrs Anne Palmer

Mrs Olivia and Mr Jon Leary

Mr Rajeev Patel and Mrs Akanksha Choubey

YARRA FOUNDATION

Mr Ritchie and Mrs Samantha Appleby Ms Laurice Temple and Mr Tony Duff Mr Jules and Mrs Sarah Arifovic

Mr Mark and Mrs Wendy Duncan

Mr Sumit and Mrs Gonika Arora

Mr Jochen Ehret and Ms Jutta Heider

Mr Christopher Ashe and Dr Emma Fisher

Mr Jeremy and Mrs Olga Elia

Mr Rohan Atherton and Ms Meghan Butterfield

Mr Peter and Mrs Chris Elsworth Mr Haozhong Fan and Mrs Yulei Tang

Mr Brad Baker and Ms Susan Dalton

Mr Peter and Mrs Diana Fayle

Mr Les and Mrs Bronwyn Barnes

Mr Chris and Mrs Kylie Fenelon

Mr Paul and Mrs Naomi Baulch

Mr Brett Ferris

Mr Matthew and Mrs Heidi Bell

Mr Tony and Mrs Andrea Filardo

Mr Nick and Mrs Tanja Bird

Mr Jorg and Mrs Weiyan Flammiger

Mrs Louise and Mrss Graham Bradtke Mr Angelo and Mrs Nancy Frisina Mrs Jacqui and Mr Ian Garbett Mr Andrew and Mrs Davia Brown Ms Rosie and Mr Richard Brown

Mr Jinshan Ge and Ms Yumei Zhang

Mr David Bryant

Mr John and Mrs Desi Georgiou

Mr Manar Bushnaq and Mrs Wissam Al Azzeh

Mrs Aditi and Mrss Shankar Ghosh

Mr Craig and Mrs Lauren Butcher

Mr Taskin and Mrs Niyal Goktepe

Ms Karen Cai

Mr Mark Gooi and Ms Sui Hoon Khor

Mr Steven and Mrs Sandra Gilbert

Mr Peter Cain and Mrs Ruth Villanueva Mr Dominic and Mrs Sandra Gregory - Cain Mr Peter and Mrs Jodi Grundy Mr John and Mrs Janet Calvert-Jones Mr Ben Gu and Dr Yunxia Yang Mr Malcolm and Mrs Marcia Carter Mr Jin Guo and Mrs Maggie He Mr Robert Cacicchia and Mrs Jodi Mr Rhys and Mrs Simone Haag Quigg-Cavicchia Mrs Shaner Cen and Mr Eric Lai Mrs Gina and Mrss Fernando Cerritelli

Mrs Martina and Mrss Jason Hammerstein

Mr Jonathan Lang

Mr Xuesong Li and Ms Jue Zhang Mr Chuan Li and Mrs Yvonne Yu Mr Zhi Jun Li and Mrs Zhi Min Tan Mr Bao qiong Li and Mrs Sitara Shu Mr Honggu Li and Mrs Xia Long Mr Feng and Dr Jinchun Li Dr Shenpeng and Mrs Michelle Guo Mr Yan Lin and Ms Huairong Zhang Mr Deyong Liu and Ms Li Zhang Mr Chao and Mrs Hongwen Liu Mrs Meilan Liu Mr Jian Liu and Mrs Jian Li Mr Swee hoe and Mrs Theresa Loke Mr David and Mrs Debra Lowden Mr James and Mrs Kim Lucas Mr William and Mrs Suzette Lyall Mr Neville Lyngcoln Mrs Jo Mackenzie-King Mr John and Mrs Karen Magree Mr Sean and Mrs Johanna Maguire

Mr Darren and Mrs Dianne Haycraft

Mr Alick Mak and Ms Carrie Wan

Mr Gerry Hobday and Ms Amy Zhou

Mr Bob Mao and Mrs Lily Sun

Mr Ken Cheng and Mrs Kelly Ding

Mr Anthony Holah and Mrs Monique Du Chateau

Mr Meng Mao and Mrs Jessie Juan

Mr Ricky Cheung and Miss Linda Huang

Mr Anthony and Mrs Stephanie Holman

Mr Kun Chen and Mrs Qingying Shen Mr Wenjian Chen and Mrs Meiyong Li

Mr Hamid Markazi Omidvar and Mrs Saeedeh Kheirkhah Kheirabadi

Ms Wing Sze Cheung

Mr Stephen Marlow and Ms Cathy Mr Mark Hong and Ms Veronica Zheng Hainslin

Mrs Wai Yee Chow and Mrs Weng Leong

Mr Zhen Hui Hua and Mrs Ping Li

Ms Simone Cote Mr Peter Cui and Mrs Jing Chen Mr Gideon Culican and Mrs Alison Greenway

Mr Todd and Mrs Sam Ireland Mr John and Mrs Helen Jacobe Mr Tony Jiang and Mrs Cathy Liu Mr Jim Jin and Mrs Amy Huang

Mr Dezheng Dang and Mrs Ying Zeng Mr Jingkai Jin Mr Lee and Mrs Yvette Jones Mr Mark and Mrs Sarah Dare

Mr Michael and Mrs Kylie Withers Mr Stephen Wong and Ms Caroline Lim

Mr Gao Zhan and Mrs Cecilia Jingyan Mr Qiao Zhang and Mrs Huaping Shi Mr Andrew Zhang and Mrs Tracey Luo Mr Zesheng Zhang and Mrs Lee Li

Miss Charlotte Peak

Mr Neville and Mrs Holly Tivendale

Mr Yin Wu and Mrs Zhi Ying Tan

Mr George Zhang and Ms Cathy Chen

Mrs Katrina and Mr Antonio Pellegrino

Dr Ranil Uduwela and Dr Charitha Ranasinghe

Mr Sean Xu and Mrs Cathy Tong

Mr Xinmin Zhao and Ms Maozhen Gong

Mr David and Mrs Jennet Ure

Mr David Yang and Ms Qing Li

Mr David and Mrs Cherry Peng

Mr Benjamin and Mrs Bridget Vallence

Mr Haixia Yin and Ms Lili Lu

Mr Jonathan and Mrs Sharon Perry

Mr Neil and Mrs Lauren Venter

Mr Rob and Mrs Kerrie Philipps

Mr Rory and Mrs Jane Wainer

Mr David and Mrs Diana Pica

Mr Jeffrey Wang and Mrs Adele Li

Ms Amy Pitt

Mr Xuan Wang and Mrs Xiaoyun Li

Mrs Marianne Pelz Mr Rod and Mrs Suzie Penaluna

Mr Jianguang Yang and Mrs Ting Liu

Ms Carol Ying

Mr Sam Zhang and Mrs Linda Gan

Mr George Zhook and Ms Li Zhou Mrs Kelly Zhou Mr Fan Zhu and Mrs Laiyan Zeng

Mr Martyn and Mrs Kelly Young

Mr Shihong Zhu and Mrs Jie Zhao Wang

Mr James Yu and Mrs Jiang Wu

Mr Jinxi Zhu and Ms Elva Du

Mr Ting Yu and Mrs Haiying Luan

Ms Minhua Zhu

Mr George and Mrs Roberta Polites Mr Gary and Mrs Trisha Pratt Mrs Melissa and Mrss Lou Primavera Mr Justin and Mrs Natalie Pryor Mr Paul Rath Mr Matthew and Mrs Blaire Redgrove

What would you like to see in Yarra’s Future?

Ms Tanya Reid and Mr Alex Dunn Ms Jenny Rolleston Mr Darren and Mrs Vanessa Rowse Dr Arthur Sakellariou and Ms Leanna Tedesco

We asked some of our current students what they would like to see in Yarra’s Future. Watch their responses below.

Mr Kon Samulis and Mrs Filomena Ciavarella Mrs Helen and Mrss Anthony Sapardanis Mr James Saretta and Mrs Samantha Delaney-Saretta Mr Andrew and Mrs Jennifer Schiller

Mr Andrew and Mrs Suzanne Marshall Mr Eddy and Mrs Nicole Schipper Mr Mel Martin and Mrs Karyn Simes- Dr Jean-Guy Schneider Martin Mr Matthew and Mrs Lea Scholes Mr Jason and Mrs Catherine McClintock

Mr Peter and Mrs Joan Selby Smith

Mr Patrick and Mrs Sutasinee McGuigan

Mrs Colette Shaw

Mr John and Mrs Pam Sharwood Mr Sicheng Shuai and Mrs Ying Qian

Mr Ian and Mrs Anne McLeod

Dr Neil and Dr Aileen Shuey

Mr Lianhui Deng and Ms Qingning Zhang

Mr Peter Kapoglis

Mrs Julia and Mrs Rodney Minett

Mr Michael and Mrs Simone Simpson Mr Harry Singh and Mrs Harleen Kaur

Mr Kun Ding and Mrs Jing Li

Mr Xiaohui KE and Ms Juhong Song

Mrs Cindy and Mrss Quoc Nguyen

Mrs Yini Ke

Dr Clifford and Mrs Frederica Morrison Mr Christopher and Mrs Fiona Spring

Mr Andrew Keleher

Mr Nick and Mrs Tasma Murdoch

Mr Andrew and Mrs Sue Stark

Dr Darren and Mrs Robyn Kelly

Mr Andy and Mrs Anita Mutton

Mr Christopher Stoney

Mr Craig Doreian and Mrs Tina Barrington

Mrs Jenny Taylor

Mr Paul and Mrs Rachel Willson

Mr Hui Zeng and Ms Ping Zhang

Mrs Kylie and Mrss Guy Thomas

Mr Ralph and Mrs Jennifer McKnight

Mr Graydon and Mrs Danielle Dobson

Mr Wayne and Mrs Bronwyn Taylor

Mr Justin and Dr Anna Williams

Mr Jin Yu and Mrs Joyce Jin

Mr Deng Nian Wu and Ms Linying Zhang

Mr Bo Ju and Mrs Xin Gong

Mr Bryon and Mrs Ramona David

9

Mr Yung Kwan and Mrs Sau Cheung

Mr Peter Warton and Mrs Nicole Stevens-Warton

Click here to play the video: Yarra Foundation Student Responses

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

President’s Report

10

It’s certainly been a different period for most of us since the last Yarra Old Grammarian (YOG) update.

The restrictions placed on social events has resulted in our efforts being more online focused. The YOG Facebook and LinkedIn pages continue to be excellent ways in which YOGs can stay connected: not just with other YOGs, but also with what’s been happening at the School.

Events such as reunions and the YOG Annual Golf Day have either been rescheduled (e.g. the YOG Annual Golf Day will now be held on 23 November) or are in the process of being rescheduled. Once dates are confirmed, we’ll make sure they are communicated to everyone.

Possibly one of the more significant YOG events, that occurred last November, was the YOG Rooftop Garden opening.

The idea of having an area or ‘something’ that represented YOGs at Yarra, and served as an awareness for current students, had been discussed for a while. The building of the new Research Centre presented us with the ideal space. The YOG Rooftop Garden is a really wonderful area and a mural has been designed and erected that signifies the YOG presence at the School. It has already been used by staff, students and YOGs for various events.

Coming up, we have our Speed Careering event in July, in which YOGs donate their time to talk with students about their career paths. This is now in its fourth year, and grows in popularity each time. Now that restrictions have eased, we are planning to have everyone on site, with appropriate distancing! It’s a really great example of how current and past students can connect.

Some very exciting news came in from Austria, involving Mark Garrett (YOG 1980). Mark was bestowed with the Grand Silver Medal of Honour with Star for services to the Republic. Mark was recognised for his efforts to help transform what is now the country’s most profitable business. In Mark’s words: “I still have moments when I wonder how a boy from Donvale, kicking a football in the car park of Yarra and breaking a car window, got here!” Check out Mark’s podcast (episode 46) on Inspired by Yarra!

The Virtual House Cross Country Competition during May was one of the few occasions where YOGs, staff, parents and current students all had a chance to participate in the same event.

Apart from being a good excuse to escape isolation and exercise, it’s been another avenue in which we can all stay connected.

Congratulations to Arnott on

the overall victory, and Plummer for taking out the YOG leg of the competition. I encourage you to check out the Facebook page for some great pics!

This could prove to become a popular regular event in the YOG Calendar.

Moving into the second half of the year, we will be sitting down to review the YOG Strategy. We want to understand any learnings we may have gleaned from the last few months, incorporate the feedback from surveys, and continue to position YOG as a community in which we can all benefit from, contribute to, and enjoy. YOG is such a large group of people, and the strength of its relationships and ties to the School make it a powerful one that we can all enjoy.

Until next time, stay safe.

Andrew Gaythorpe (YOG 1982) President, Yarra Old Grammarians

YOG Facebook YOG LinkedIn YOG Instagram

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

YOG Rooftop Garden Opening

11

Click here to play the video: YOG Rooftop Garden Opening

We had a sensational evening on Tuesday 19 November 2019 at the YOG Rooftop Garden Opening, part of the new Resource Centre. It was lovely to be surrounded by so many past students and staff to celebrate this area.

The YOG Rooftop Garden is used regularly for events and students. It is a constant reminder to the current community of the YOG association.

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

From the Frontline

12

The COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented in our lifetimes.

Global deaths from COVID-19 tally 444,111 and counting. This invisible enemy is rather sly. The virus hides in our upper respiratory tracts, readily dispersible with a sneeze or a cough. It is very contagious and while often produces mild symptoms in some, in others, particularly older people with other health conditions, the illness can become quickly lifethreatening with little warning.

Working on the frontline does increase my risk of exposure to coronavirus and I do worry about this, particularly the effect it could have on my family if I got sick.

General Practice has had to adapt quickly to the threat of COVID-19 to minimize risk to patients and also to ourselves and staff. This has been challenging, especially as our clinic is smaller than most, with only four consulting rooms and one treatment room. Patients are screened on the phone when booking appointments for flu-like symptoms and if this applies, they are asked to wait in their car in the carpark, before being taken to a makeshift dedicated respiratory clinic, which has been set up under cover outside of the practice.

The configuration of chairs in consulting rooms and the waiting room has been altered to reflect the 1.5m physical distancing requirements and doctors are wearing scrubs (that can be washed/dried at high temperatures) and masks and full personal protective equipment (PPE) when seeing and swabbing our patients in the dedicated respiratory clinic area.

We have reviewed and upgraded our cleaning protocol and have sourced additional PPE supplies.

A sneeze screen has been installed at the reception desk and hand sanitiser is readily available for patients when they walk in. Telehealth has also been utilized where possible to reduce vulnerable patients having to wait in the waiting room.

The pandemic lockdown has had a significant adverse impact on mental health, through isolation, uncertainty and unemployment.

The pause on elective surgery and some dental services has left some patients suffering in limbo.

General Practice has always been there to support these patients, as best we can. However, on a positive note, the lockdown has resulted in a noticeable drop in presentations of other infectious diseases that are usually common this time of year, particularly croup and ear infections in young children. The pandemic has also resulted in improved connectivity and knowledge sharing of doctors through webinars and IT platforms.

We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity and care from our local community. Individuals, schools, community groups and businesses have embraced supporting and thanking our frontline medical teams and ensured we were able to quickly purchase lifesaving medical equipment. This equipment will be well utilised beyond COVID-19 by our Emergency and Intensive Care teams.

a bin immediately (& wash your hands again), download the COVIDsafe app to assist the health department with contact tracing and stay home if ANY cold and flu-like symptoms and get tested if you do have any symptoms: see dhhs.vic.gov.au for your nearest COVID-19 testing clinic or contact your GP.

On a personal note, my Foundation colleagues and I have adapted well to working from home, and, in some case, schooling our children from home at the same time (shout out to the real Most Valuable Players (MVPs) - teachers!).

There are a lot of challenges and uncertainty in my profession and the COVID-19 pandemic has added another layer of complexity to providing care. It has also highlighted the importance of our profession in providing wholeperson, patient-centred, continuity of care to our communities and I feel proud and privileged to be able to do so.

Dr Deborah Niproski (YOG 1993) General Practitioner, Diamond Valley Clinic

There is also a heightened sense of enlightenment of what is really important and a growing of perspective that our health is our most important asset and we should do all we can to enhance it, such as daily exercise, good nutrition and staying connected with family, friends and the community.

I think Australia overall has done an excellent job, so far, of limiting community spread of COVID-19 but we need to remain vigilant. I’d like to highlight the important message of continuing to; maintain physical distance from others and avoid crowds, wash hands regularly (especially before eating), avoid touching your face, if you do have to cough or sneeze, do so into your elbow or into a tissue & discard it into

From the Hospital

As we start to emerge from the COVID-19 response, our Hospitals are easing restrictions and resuming normal activities again (like elective surgery). The Foundation is now able to look beyond the Agility Response Fund and resume fundraising for other vital areas of health care.

The last few months have seen rapid change and adaptation in my workplace - Eastern Health. As the largest public health networkin the east, our major hospitals (Angliss, Box Hill and Maroondah Hospitals) have been on the frontlines of COVID-19.

As part of the Foundation team, I usually work with our local community to fundraise for a range of equipment, programs and services across our sites.

When COVID-19 began to impact Victorians, it was clear that our hospital system would need extra resources to respond rapidly and efficiently to the potential increase in patients needing emergency or intensive care.

Working quickly, the Foundation launched the ‘Eastern Health Agility Response Fund’ to support our frontline doctors, nurses and allied health teams. My daily work for the past three months has been primarily focused on this Fund.

References: coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-dailyupdate

It’s been a great opportunity to showcase our frontline medical teams and explain how donations to the hospital make a difference.

One of these areas is mental health.

Maroondah Hospital was honoured to receive support from the Yarra Giving Circle in 2018/19. Donations from the Giving Circle continue to support children whose parents have a mental illness, through peer support programs and the creation of welcoming spaces for families in the Psychiatric Inpatient Units.

Having been on the Community Links committee at Yarra in 1996, this project brought that passion for supporting the local community full circle for me.

The last few months have been challenging for all of us. But as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s reassuring to know that, as a community, we can be counted on to support each other, as well as the local charities and health services that take care of our most vulnerable community members.

Claire Harrison (nee Nikakis) (YOG 1996) Associate Director Eastern Health Foundation

More from our Healthcare Sector

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

good job you create goodwill. Each place wished me to stay longer or become permanent. This augers well for return contracts. Darwin is a big possibility next. Each contract was a new experience, with lots to learn, and also opportunity to share my knowledge.

13

Back when it was HSC, I missed the University cut-off for Medicine by a mere three points (out of 400 points in those days). I repeated HSC to obtain essentially the same result. So I did a Nursing Course.

I entered the College of Nursing in the last decade of hospital training. In those days, male nurses composed only 5-10% of the nurse population, much as it still is today.

Fast forward through jobs at the Alfred Hospital, Bendigo Hospital, back to Melbourne, orthopaedics, spinal nursing, chronic pain management, then into addiction medicine (drug and alcohol). During this time there was a marriage, two children and a divorce. So many untold stories for another time.

For the last almost 20 years I have worked in the Drug and Alcohol sector. In the last five years my offspring became more and more independent, apart from the dependence on Dad’s wallet. When the kids started really having their own life, and talking about moving out, I reconsidered my future. I was not looking forward to the next 20 years until retirement working to pay the bills and staring at the telly in an empty house or one-bedsit.

I had experimentally purchased a campervan, and had never really seen Australia. The writing was on the wall.

in the Western world (increased with the COVID-19 isolation) is symptomatic of the lack of faith and foundation in people’s lives.

to direct-to-consumer vitamins subscriptions, we’ve been able to apply our unique hyperpersonalisation platform to help businesses replace the face-toface customisation they’ve relied upon until now.

So now I am back working in Community Nursing at ADSCA (Alcohol and Drug Services Central Australia) in Alice Springs as a Clinical Nurse Specialist.

We do phone appointments, but interaction is best done faceto-face. The pubs closed, but home drinking and take-away alcohol sales increased. Cannabis became scarce, but amphetamines continued. Essentially demand for our service was unchanged.

I have left each place richer from my contribution, and wiser from my learning. Especially in gaining a greater understanding of the indigenous peoples. Driving all the way means thousands of miles on the road, and seeing how big and beautiful this wonderful country is. But I also want to cross the Nullabor, see the Kimberleys, Pilbara, Broome, and go up the East So I have taken the road less travelled. Two years of HSC/ Coast of Australia.

VCE, male nurse, working in Drug What’s past is prologue. So where is & Alcohol, a hobo on the road to remote and outback Australia, and the COVID-19 relevance? soon to be having my second bout After Tennant Creek, I planned a of 14 days Isolation. I am building nice long break near some water a list of interesting stories for for a change. Instead, after one my retirement. I think I might be week resting, in March, the world turning into one of those outback turned on its COVID-19 ear. I had characters. Still lacking a travelling planned returning to Alice Springs companion and drinking buddy! I to complete some unfinished am not sure I am a typical health activities in May. Instead, I raced care worker. And I am sure I do not back early. I crossed into South fit the usual profiles I read in the Australia before the border closed. Link. But it is an ongoing adventure.

By the time I reached the Northern Territory border, I was forced into 14 days mandatory isolation. 14 days in one room, unable to venture past the veranda. Everybody copes differently to such situations. I arrived expecting it, and prepared.

I broke my day into hourly blocks.

Bible study, prayer & mediation; Yoga exercise; Jigsaw puzzle; Reading a book for pleasure; catching up on my backlog of comics. Then repeat.

My faith and spirituality certainly helped. isolation and solitude forces people to look back at themselves and their own resources. It helps to be comfortable with your own The kids did not leave, so I ran away self. You need to love yourself. David Dwyer (YOG 1981) from home! In the last two years I Otherwise, you live a long time Clinical Nurse Specialist have had a 12 months contract in with someone you don’t like or Alcohol and Drug Services Australia Alice Springs. Then three months in love, and you cannot get away from Mount Isa, followed by six months yourself. I know who I am through in Tennant Creek. Luckily for me, my Christian faith. I wonder if the if you know your work, and do a level of anxiety and depression

But where we’ve seen the biggest growth has been from within the health sector itself – leveraging our experience and analysis to help hospitals, pathology networks and pharmacies improve their services.

I head up Brand & Marketing for Melbourne-based personalised wellness start-up, myDNA. We use genomic (DNA) analysis to help people implement preventative health measures by better understanding the genes they’ve inherited. This isn’t about predisposition to diseases, rather how the genes you’ve inherited impact the way your body processes medications, stores fat, your risk of soft tissue injury, your appetite control and more. We deliver this information in the form of recommendations and plans that our members can follow and refer to, even down to specific workouts and recipes that are also personalised to age, gender, height, weight etc.

have been some challenges brought on by COVID-19.

I had been in the business for only 12 months when news of Coronavirus first started ramping up in Australia. But even with the highs and lows of the last few months, it’s a truly fascinating space to work. I love that we’re genuinely helping people live healthier and happier lives, but more importantly I also love that we’re on the cusp of a future of personalised wellness – something that consumers are only just starting to realise the benefits of.

Being on the cusp of the future though doesn’t necessarily bode well during a global pandemic.

While myDNA’s products have never been more relevant, there

Global and local analysis by McKinsey has confirmed this showing an increase in wellness activities by consumers, but a sharp decline in consumer spending.

• Disruptions to logistics and mail services have slowed the sending of DNA collection kits and receiving of DNA samples, particularly from the UK and US. • Many of our competitors were able to offer their generic services for free, something we’re unable to do given our promise of personalisation and the cost of the DNA analysis.

• There’s been no shortage of this ‘free’ content which, despite the closure of gyms, has been responsible for keeping consumers engaged and healthy.

We quickly learned that we weren’t the only business feeling this pinch. Many, if not all, of our fitness and nutrition B2B partners had seen their business models completely disrupted overnight, forcing them to think differently about engaging their customers, and opening the opportunity for us to collaborate in ways we’d never previously considered.

From at-home gym memberships,

One such initiative is our submission to the Australian Department of Health urging for the use of precision prescribing (pharmacogenomics) to improve the treatment of mental health patients, of which half are yet to find the right dose of the right medication. New modelling has shown the COVID-19 pandemic may see more deaths by suicide in Australia than the virus itself, so anything that can be done to speed up health outcomes needs to be explored.

I can’t speak for the broader health sector but from secondhand accounts it seems we had prepared for the worst this pandemic could deliver, a reality that we’ve so far been able to avoid. This is great news for our cases of COVID-19 but it will be some time before we know the long term impacts of the societal and individual sacrifices we’ve all made, particularly in relation to chronic diseases such as Mental Health, Cardiovascular, Cancer and Respiratory Tract infections.

So as restrictions start to ease and the stream of free generic advice slows down, we’re strongly urging consumers to invest in their health and wellness again and to ensure they consider all data points at their disposal, including their DNA. Anthony Russell (YOG 2002) Brand & Marketing MyDNA

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

YOG v First XI Cricket Match

14

This year the YOG v First XI Cricket match was held on Wednesday 12 February in great conditions with a light breeze.

The Yarra First XI won the toss and elected to bowl against the YOGs. The outfield was still under maintenance with lots of sand pits everywhere which wasn’t ideal, however, the wicket was in great nick to get things underway.

Once the first wicket fell for the YOGs there were a couple of quick wickets but without the expense of Tom Oberg (YOG 2018) who clearly just had one plan: go big. Thankfully Oberg was dismissed shortly after, with a confusion between both batters resulting in a run out. After that wicket, the YOGs went back in their shell, just fighting it out looking for one’s and two’s.

Youngster Mitch Duncan (Year 10) came on to bowl some leg spin to create something and rip right through the middle order. Duncan was the pick of the bowlers finishing his five over spell with three wickets. The YOGs finished their innings on 9/121.

Next it was time for the Yarra First XI to put the pads on and have a bat. The coach mixed the order around, so Cullen and Duncan opened. Cullen got off to a good start pulling his second ball for four.

Aiden Begg (Year 12) opened the bowling with a dramatic start to the game. There were two drop catches in the first over, kicking the Yarra First XI off to a shaky start. The YOGs started off strong, looking to setup a big total. Out of nowhere a ball smashed straight to Jack Cullen (Year 12) who took a great catch in the covers.

Nicholas Bell (Year 11) joined Hudson, who was just starting to look good, but again the Yarra First XI lost a wicket at the wrong time. This saw Hudson going out LBW in the teens. Rhonan Appleby (Year 10) got his chance with the bat with the Yarra First XI boys at 3/50.

Duncan, didn’t get the ideal start after receiving a good, short ball at his chest, making him play at it and resulting in him running off to the keeper.

Max Hudson (Year 11) joined Cullen at the crease: it was a good partnership until Cullen went for one too many pull shots, bringing his innings to an end by top edging to the keeper.

a risky single with some good fielding from mid-wicket to get a direct hit, seeing the end of Bell who was looking strong. First XI skipper Simon Reynolds (Year 12) joined Appleby and the runs began to flow.

Both boys batted well together with Appleby finishing on 21 retired and Reynolds on 44 not out. The First XI passed the YOG’s score with two overs to spare and five wickets in hand. In the end it was a great opportunity to play against a number of YOGs. Rhonan Appleby Year 10 Student #FutureYOG

Again, a nice little partnership, Bell and Appleby allowed the First XI to begin a steady chase towards the moderate target. Just as the two were set, Appleby called

YOG Team List: Randal McDonnell (YOG 1979) Stephen Le Get (YOG 1986) Haydn Murdoch (YOG 1988) Michael Letson (YOG 2006) Jordan Goldsmith (YOG 2013) James Holman (YOG 2018) Daniel Keane (YOG 2018) Tom Oberg (YOG 2018) Ben Thompson (YOG 2018) Kane Church (YOG 2020) Student Team List: Aiden Begg (Year 12) Jack Cullen (Year 12) Darcy Ireland (Year 12) Jordan Milne (Year 12) Callan Murphy (Year 12) Simon Reynolds (Year 12) Will Vagg (Year 12) Nicholas Bell (Year 11) Max Hudson (Year 11) Blake Matheson (Year 11) Rhonan Appleby (Year 10) Mitch Duncan (Year 10) Armaan Sandhu (Year 10)

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS 15

Photography: Darren Tindale The Police Association Victoria

Over $400,000 raised for fallen Police Members On the 22 April 2020, Victoria Police tragically lost four Police members in a crash on the Eastern Freeway in Kew. I was deeply moved and troubled by what happened, despite not knowing Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King, Constable Joshua Prestney or Constable Glen Humphris personally.

A friend and I had a conversation and decided that we would add up their badge numbers and run 159.485 kilometers as part of the existing ‘Run4Blue’ event throughout May in their memory. We also started fundraising for Victoria Police Legacy - we had over 300 people join us.

Victoria Police Legacy provides ongoing support to families who have lost a loved one who was a serving member of Victoria Police. This particular fundraising was

arranged to be directed to the families of Lynette, Kevin, Josh and Glen.

As the month went on, we had the idea to use the last day to run a relay. We had batons engraved with the names and numbers of the four and ran from the Police Academy in Glen Waverley to the Police Memorial in the CBD. We did this via the four stations the members were from and also via the crash site, where we held a minutes silence.

I ran the last leg from the Road Policing Drug and Alcohol section in Brunswick to the memorial. At that point, it was my privilege to present Victoria Police Legacy CEO Lex De Man with a cheque for over $370,000 raised by those running the 159.485km in memory of the four.

Also present was the Secretary of the Police Association, Wayne Gatt; Deputy Commissioner Rick Nugent as well as the families of the four members.

It became clear to me throughout May that both the Police and public alike were looking to do something to honour their memory and also make a difference to their families. I gave people the opportunity to do both - run in their memory and fundraise for their families. Our group was made up of Police, retired members, relatives of the four and members of the general public.

Leading the group was an absolute honour.

My initial goal was to raise $4,000, so we could achieve $1,000 to each family. In the end we raised over $100,000 for each family (donations continued to come in after I presented the cheque). The generosity

of everyone and the willingness for others to get involved was incredible. I’m very proud of what we achieved, despite the circumstances that made it happen in the first place.

Moving forward I’m going to be doing more work with Police Legacy in the space of fundraising and running.

Charlotte Peak (McDonald) (YOG 2013)

To view more YOG Connected Charities, visit the School website HERE.

INDIVIDUAL WINNERS Individual Winners

Virtual House Cross Country

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

When Yarra launched their Virtual House Cross Country in May, we had 128 of our YOGs also sign up to earn points for their old house in this virtual competition. Together they ran almost 10,000kms towards Arnott, Annells, Hughes and Plummer!

2km

We loved being able to include YOGs from far and wide, due to the online nature of the event, with our most ‘socially distanced’ being Stuart Borland (YOG 2000) who competed all the way from the Highlands of Scotland!

Congratulations to Plummer, the winning YOG team! The overall winning team was Arnott. We look forward to continuing to offer this virtual event annually.

Kane Church (YOG 2020) 8.33 HUGHES

Carrie Edwards-Britt (YOG 1999) 11.31 HUGHES

3km Jonathon Peake (YOG 1999) 13.51 PLUMMER

Hilary Donelan (YOG 2015) 16.48 ARNOTT

4km Rob Drew (YOG 2000) 17.20 PLUMMER

Pricilla Gall (YOG 2005) 19.44 PLUMMER

5km Nicholas Buttner (YOG 2001) 19.21 HUGHES

Tess Lawrence (YOG 2017) 25.49 ARNOTT

6km 16

Zachary Newman (YOG 1999) 19.17 ARNOTT

Connor Gist (YOG 2012) 26.08 HUGHES

Virtual House Cross Country YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

Yarra Old Grammarians Annual Golf Day 2020 This year we return to the Metropolitan Golf Club for another fabulous day on the green. Tickets include green fees, light lunch and post-match drinks and dinner.

Click here to play the video: Virtual House Cross Country #GoYarra

Special thanks to Ross Cameron (YOG 1984) for providing our Cross Country Running chant back in the 1980 Levavi magazine!

Date:

Monday 23 November 2020

Time:

11:30am Registration 1:00pm tee off

Cost:

$160 Early Bird $180 from 18 October

Bookings:

www.trybooking.com/BILSO

$50 special discounted price for female YOGs and YOGs with a peer year 2008 till 2019

Click here to play the video: Keeley Marx Trick Shot

Year 10 student Keeley Marx has been busy preparing to take on our YOGs at the Golf Day in November!

Keeley has been selected in the Victorian Women’s High Performance Golf Squad. Playing off a +3 handicap, Keeley is one of five female members in the squad. Part of Keeley’s involvement in the squad grants her access to various high performance coaches, squad sessions and the Titleist golf brand’s high performance testing facility.

17

#FutureYOG

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

Yarra in Government House personnel (Matt from the Army, Lisa from the Air Force) to sit with us so they could detail their experience of ADFA and their life in the Defence Force.

Something they all agreed upon, ADFA was the best three years of their life and the Defence Force, an excellent career choice.

When Paul Singer (YOG 1995) was in Year 11, he watched the film “Crimson Tide” at the Croydon Cinemas and decided he wanted to join the Navy.

Upon finishing school, he moved to Canberra to study at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA). After a long and distinguished career in the Navy, Paul is now the Official Secretary to the Governor General of Australia. I learnt this by listening to his episode on the Inspired by Yarra Podcast, yvg.vic.edu.au/podcast.

Last year, through the Development Office, my mother sent Paul an email asking if we could meet with him in Canberra, during the September school holidays. Only returning late from the Pilbara the night before, Paul graciously agreed to meet with me.

Yarra Old Grammarian (YOG) pins are given out to all Senior School students with their graduating year marked on them.

As part of this initiative, YOG are particularly proud to be recognising the groups within our community who have their children attending Yarra, with our special new Second Generation YOG Pins. For this group, their year group and ‘Second Generation’ are clearly marked.

We believe it is important that all of the school community appreciate the value of becoming a YOG. As our organisation matures and develops the tangible benefits of YOG will become even more meaningful for Career and Connection advantages.

We are pleased to report that the YOG pins, and particularly the Second Generation pins, are being received enthusiastically.

We look forward to issuing the balance of this year’s YOG Pins to Year 10 students at YOG Speed Careering in July, so that all senior students can wear their pins with pride on their School Blazer.

Peter Sanbrook (YOG 1974) Secretary Yarra Old Grammarians

It particularly captured my attention as studying at ADFA is what I hope to do when I finish school.

What a great opportunity it was! I sat back on the couch, enjoying a hot chocolate, while Paul remembered his days at Yarra, spoke about ADFA, his Navy experience and patiently answered all my questions. He also organised for two military 18

We met Paul in his office and he declared that we couldn’t visit Government House without a tour so he showed us the room where the Executive Council meet every week, the office where Gough Whitlam was dismissed by the Governor General at the time, Sir John Kerr, the grand dining room that can seat fifty-two and the room where Commander Steven McCracken (YOG 1994) received a Conspicuous Service Medal from the Governor General, only the week before.

Second Generation YOG Pins

The experience was hugely beneficial, and I really appreciate Paul giving up his valuable time to meet with me. Thanks so much Paul!

Seth Cameron Year 11 Student #FutureYOG

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

Working Together

My story highlights the importance of the friendships, connections and business networks that I’ve built over the years being part of the Yarra Valley Grammar community.

Jellis Craig during 2012, to our current expanded ‘Jellis Craig Whitehorse’ Agency employing approximately 40 team members across Sales and Property Management.

I attended throughout the 1980s and post school during the 1990s was heavily involved in establishing Yarra Valley Old Boys Football Club as a player then Secretary/President.

Another Yarra connection is our company accountant, HTA Advisory is run by Tim Hale (YOG 1995). Being in the people business, as part of my extended network I have had the pleasure of liaising with an array of clients over the years including many fellow YOGs and Yarra teachers.

Beginning my real estate career during the early 2000s with local Ringwood Agency Carter Real Estate run at the time by Richard Carter, whose father Alan Carter was an original Founder of Yarra Valley Grammar during the 1960s.

Richard’s other partner at the time was William (Bill) Lyall (YOG 1985) and I owe them both a huge gratitude for giving me my start and mentoring me during those early real estate sales years.

Subsequently I have taken my career from Carter’s, to Philip Webb and then establishing my own Agency under

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Now times have turned full circle, I’ve been fortunate to be part of the school YOG Speed Careering events and last year I employed Lachlan Walker (2017) as my full-time Sales Associate. He’s coming up to his first year anniversary within our business, excelling and ‘learning the trade’. Lachlan’s father first approached me at a Blackburn Football Club function; I was there as a long standing major sponsor. He indicated Lachlan (Under 19 player at Blackburn)

was keen to pursue a career in real estate and had had a frustrating time applying for roles, trying to get a start in the industry. We ended up meeting and he did a period of work experience and this developed into a full-time sales role.

Showing again shared mutual connections mean a lot and how two Yarra Old Grammarians from completely different eras can form a successful business partnership.

Stephen Le Get (YOG 1986) jelliscraig.com.au/landing/whitehorse

If you are a business owner, we acknoledge that these are particularly trying times. Please make use of our free Yarra Community Business Directory and advertise to our community that you are still open for business.

As consumers, we ask all of our community to keep the Yarra Spirit alive and well and use this directory to help support local businesses. yvg.vic.edu.au/directory

YARRA PARENTS & FRIENDS 20

Well, it has been an unusual start to the Year when things get difficult and that is another to say the very least! reason we have truly come to appreciate what a great school Yarra is. Since our last Personally having a daughter in Year 12, I report for the Link we have been fortunate can remember thinking on one of the days to have completed a number of Initiatives. in the first week of Term 1, ‘I hope this year goes slowly and that I treasure every family The Comedy Night was held on the 6 moment as next year my eldest baby will be September in 2019, hosted by Josh leaving the nest and life as I know it will be Earl with a team of Comedians from the changing’. Well I was not expecting what International Comedy Festival. Unfortunately, was on the horizon, be careful for what we the event clashed with the only AFL final wish for! that was played in Victoria (Collingwood vs Geelong at The MCG), which lowered Whilst we were entering an uncertain time attendance. However, we adjusted the PAC with many fears and worries the level of care setup for reverse stage and managed to and support that has been shown by the create a more intimate atmosphere. An School has been fantastic. extremely entertaining night was had by all (and a win to Collingwood) what could be The staff at Yarra have shown our children better? that it is possible to be resilient and adaptive

Yarra P&F had decided to make the Comedy Night in 2020 our main fundraiser and had locked in some high profile comedians, which we were very excited about. However, this had to be cancelled, so please stay tuned as we would love to pick up where we left off and arrange an awesome night out when we can.

We have a number of regular initiatives throughout the year that not only raise money, but also provide an important service to all our parents. This includes the Second-Hand Uniform Shop which raised $4,332 last year. Our sincerest thanks to Cathy Hainslin and her team – Natasha Poppenbeek, Rachel Davis and Esther Schouten. Another is the Pavilion Café, which was run by Fay Kirk and supported by numerous volunteers on our cold winter

sport Saturday mornings, and raised a tidy profit of $5,138.

All money raised for Yarra P&F is fed directly back into the School. This is done via our regular initiatives such as Middle and Senior School badges, Grade 6 plaques, Junior School Disco, the Year 12 BBQ and Lolly Pots for seriously ill students. We were also able to donate some sanitation products to a cause set up by a Year 12 student ‘Share the Dignity’. This year we have also donated a small hand sanitiser bottle for every student, which can be easily clipped onto School bags. Unfortunately, delivery has been delayed due to the cargo ship having to make an emergency stop in New South Wales! All students will be able to collect their gift at the beginning of Term 3...

YARRA PARENTS & FRIENDS 21

...When possible we also purchase items from the School’s ‘wish list’. In 2019 we spent $15,981.81 on YVG Projects. We committed funds for two standing desks for the Resource Centre, two zoo keeper for a day sponsorships for Year 7 students and a scoreboard for the soccer pitch...

successful as more people become aware of it.

Yarra P&F cancelled the Second-Hand Book Sale for 2019. We find volunteers are extremely difficult to get for this event... and the number of books available for sale constantly reduces as digital products become more available.

Towards the end of last year it became apparent that P&F needed an amended Constitution to make it more relevant to our requirements. With the help of the Development Office and the Corporate Services Manager, an amended version was approved by our association. This was passed at our Annual General Meeting earlier this year.

Another Parents and Friends initiative is 2020 Class Contact Lists. This is an important initiative as it provides a platform for parents to communicate easily.

Instead, we decide to provide a Facebook page where parents and students can list their books to sell them to other YVG members. This was done last minute and The first social function for P&F this year was not advertised as well as we would was our Welcome Back to Yarra Family have liked. We believe this will become more Picnic which was a huge success. We

sold almost 550 tickets and with the great weather, yummy smelling sausages, fun activities and of course wine, a great evening was had by all.

Just before the school went into offsite learning, Yarra P&F had a Hot Cross Bun drive planned and had purchased Easter Egg Hampers for the Junior School raffle to raise money for The Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal. Whilst we cancelled the Hot Cross Buns, the Junior School will still raffle off the Easter Hampers (it’s never too late to eat chocolate), with all funds still being passed on to The Royal Children’s Hospital.

While Yarra was experiencing off-campus learning, Yarra P&F was able to provide the opportunity to help the school community by providing a live webcast by world renowned

pshychologist, Lea Waters. Lea helped explain the stages and effects that lockdown situations have on us as parents and our children. This proved to be a very popular and useful event, with 271 confirming their attendance. We also had numerous families view the recording of the event, which was available online for one month afterwards.

Lastly, my sincerest thanks to all the Year Level Representatives that have organised coffee mornings, lunches, dinners and activities, and to the amazing parents that have been contacting new families to welcome them to Yarra and share the Yarra Spirit.

Robyn McKinnell President Yarra Parents & Friends

OTHER YARRA COMMUNITY GROUPS 22

The Yarra Valley Grammar Canoe & Kayak Team finished their 2019/2020 season at the Victorian School Championships at the State Regatta Centre. Thirteen students from Years 8 to 11 headed to Nagambie to represent the school on both the Sprint and Marathon courses.

three gold, one silver and four bronze in the Sprints.

In the world of school paddling, we are not the biggest of teams (Camberwell and MLC had 30+ students each), but our kayakers worked hard all day to make sure YVG was represented in multiple events with great success, taking home two golds, two silvers and two bronze in the Marathon and

The Kayaking Team trains two times a week during Term 4 and Term 1 and we have up to 25 students from Years 7 - 12 who train with us regularly. Getting that many students on to the water relies on the availability of our boats. Through the fundraising of our parent-supporters, we were able to add two

Congratulations to all the students involved, thanks to their coach, Emily Harrison and thanks to all the parents who made the trip north to support them.

new kayaks to our fleet in Term 4 2019 and thanks to a kind donation from David Bonfield (YOG 2003), we will have another kayak available at the start of Term 4 2020.

Our thanks go to Chrissy Wasley, our Parent Coordinator for all her fundraising coordination efforts and ongoing support.

Kayak training will start again in Term 4.

If you are interested in helping out with coaching, fundraising or would like to make a donation, please contact canoekayak@yvg.vic.edu.au.

Students can look out for more information on how to join in the Daily Bulletin at the end of Term 3.

Benjamin Ratcliffe & Brendan Hodges Co-ordinating Teachers 2019/2020 YVG Canoe Kayaking Team

OTHER YARRA COMMUNITY GROUPS

Towards the end of every school year, Yarra Music enthusiastically host an event known as the Music Awards, providing an opportunity for all music teachers, music students and their parents to come together and celebrate the conclusion of the year.

Scheduled for the end of November, Foundation Hall is transformed into a warm dinner venue, with a fully catered spit roast meal (including salads and dessert!) provided, and some local wine options.

As per the event’s name, many awards are handed to students by our music staff on the night, with categories covering different year levels and instruments all included.

Along with sponsoring these awards, Yarra Music take delight in creating a memorable photo book that is presented to every Year 12 student. A volunteer from Yarra Music gathers, sorts and arranges photos of Year 12 students from all of the music events through that year (or past years), and these are all merged together in a hard backed bound book that is a fantastic keepsake that will provide a lifetime of memories.

Presenting the books to the Year 12s is

capped off with a group photo, and some sort of exploding display of confetti or streamers, a fun part that gets bigger and better each year.

Through the 2019 year we had a great turn out of over 40 volunteers across Jazz in the Café, Food Wine and Music and the Junior School Concert. This large amount of people volunteering at Yarra Music events has been fantastic and is one of our combined strengths that will carry forward to future years.

What a year 2020 has turned out to be! Our signature event, the Food, Wine and Music festival was in full flight in March, with arrangements made, caterers booked, volunteers ready, silent auction donations lined up, a big sign on the school entrance and then the big announcement that everything was postponed due to COVID-19. This postponement has unfortunately spread to other events that Yarra Music normally host, but the emphasis is on the word ‘postpone’.

Click here to play the video: Food, Wine and Music

After an incredibly successful event last year, we had set the date for our Second-Hand Deb Dress Sale for May this year. Of course, considering current circumstances we have had to hold off but look forward to hosting this event once we have confirmed dates for the Year 10 Debutante Ball.

We continued to make fabulous cushions for the drama rooms and have begun lots of work for the upcoming production of Matilda.

Our Yarra Music members are eager to get back into the full swing of events, with a potential for Food Wine and Music, Jazz in the Café, Junior School Concerts all hopefully happening sometime later this year, along with the Music Awards night to cap it all off.

Benjamin Vella President Yarra Music

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Yarra Drama had begun working on many events for this year as our group continues to grow.

It was decided that Matilda wil be postponed until May 2021. So as not to disappoint, the Drama Department has decided to keep the current cast, and so our current Year 12s will return to Yarra and perform in the production as new YOGs! During offsite learning the students were able to participate in a ‘ZooM’tilda’ trivia night.

We look forward to supporting the Drama with further events such as our popular VIP nights and kiosks once conditions permit.

Natasha Hopkins and Stephanie Holman Co-Presidents Yarra Drama

FROM THE ARCHIVES

A Yarra Family: Thirty Years On

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David Beech joined the staff of Yarra Valley Grammar in 1977 to establish a Graphic Communication course. He was to work alongside Art department colleagues Max Lovell, Neil Loveless, Norman Maggs, Frank Cooksey and Sue Chambers – all well established figures at the time. With David in 1977 came sons Nicholas and Lewis who joined our Prep School in that year. With him also came his wife, Wendy, who joined the School’s support staff in 1979.

David was instantly successful, introducing the subject Graphic Communication not only at Yarra but helping to introduce it to the wider Victorian Curriculum. In 1979 computers were still seen as new and wonderful and when David proceeded to develop computer graphics here many teachers from other schools came to visit Yarra to seek guidance and inspiration. He played a significant part in establishing the use of computers in Graphic

Communication Victoria wide. He played a significant role at Yarra in other areas also.

celebrated their Golden Wedding at Hamilton Island-one of their favourite destinations.

In 1979, he created, and for many years curated, Oculos Gallery; a Works on Paper exhibition which was a fundraising effort supporting the Yarra Valley Fete (now the Yarra Festival), and then, with the generous support of the Yarra Valley staff fund, he established the Yarra Valley Art Collection. He also supported the Rev Stewart Taplin in the creation of the original chapel, designing both the furniture and the altar tapestry.

After commencing in the Preparatory School in 1977, Nicholas and Lewis both went right though the School to Year 12. Both were active participants in music groups, dramatic productions and sporting teams.

They have happy memories of their time, involvement and contribution to life at Yarra.

After leaving Yarra in 1986, David joined the lecturing staff of Hawthorn Institute of Technology, where he continued to coordinate computer graphics into curriculums across the state of Victoria. When Hawthorn Institute became part of Melbourne University he continued his teaching career in computer graphics, lecturing in the Faculty of Fine Arts until his retirement. In

retirement he became a Volunteer Guide at the National Gallery of Victoria where he became the unofficial photographer and archivist for the guiding cohort.

Nicholas (YOG 1987) graduated and went on to Monash University graduating with B.Ec and LL.B degrees. He settled in Perth and now practises law as Special Counsel at a major law firm. He is happily married with three children.

Wendy remained at Yarra until 1990 working in the Social Science, Business Studies, and Computer Science departments as well as giving assistance in extracurricular areas. She was a very efficient and obliging member of staff well remembered by those who worked with her.

Wendy went on to pursue other interests, firstly at Monash University’s Faculty of Engineering and then at Melbourne University’s Law School where she concluded her career working in alumni, public relations and event management. Following Wendy’s retirement in 2004, David and Wendy spent the following years travelling within Australia, having previously travelled overseas on many occasions. In 2016 they

Licence (ATPL). He is now Captain Lewis Beech flying internationally. When he is not flying he manages to fit in a round of golf and still sees several friends from Yarra days.

Lewis (YOG 1989) is also happily married with two children. After graduating he went on to pursue a career in aviation. He graduated from Swinburne University of Technology with a B.Tech (Aviation) degree, concurrently gaining his Air Transport Pilots

The year 1993 saw the Beech family leave Ringwood and relocate to the Southbank Arts Village where Wendy remains to this day. David passed away on 10 November 2017 after a long battle with the dreaded C. He was fondly farewelled on 17 November 2017 at St Luke’s Anglican Church, South Melbourne, where friends and associates from all the stages of his 79 years honoured him with their presence. David did indeed contribute greatly to the world he lived in and he will be remembered as a gifted educator and artist.

Many former staff and students from Yarra have particularly fond memories of him.

John Close Archivist

Abbie Roodenburg (nee Underwood) YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

YOG 1996, Barrister Over the past 50 years Yarra has inspired students to pursue their passions and interests. Yarra Old Grammarian, Abbie Roodenburg (nee Underwood), remembers the Yarra Spirit, cricket matches on the oval, making lifelong friends and discovering her confidence.

“One of my earliest memories of Yarra was my first day in Maths class. The teacher asked a question and several children put up their hand to answer,” says Abbie.

“In my old school, nobody did that.

If you did well at something, you hid that. But achievement was celebrated at Yarra.”

Abbie joined the School in Year 10 - one of the first girls to join that year level. “The boys in my home group didn’t speak to us for about a week, until one of my friends said, ‘are you guys ever going to speak to us?’ and then we started chatting and became good mates.”

Abbie focused on Maths and Science subjects during her final year. She then went to Monash University to do Science and Law. Today she is a barrister specialising in Criminal Law.

the people I meet,” she says.

“Every day is different. I might be in court, standing up before a judge making legal submissions, arguing a case in a trial or taking evidence from witnesses. I may be in the city or sometimes I am in country court. I like the diversity of the work and the diversity of

“To me the motto means not focusing on mistakes and what has gone before, but to move forward with a positive frame of mind. Your state of mind is powerful and makes a difference to how your life pans out.”

Abbie’s years at Yarra were important in helping her achieve a career that she enjoys, and the School motto still resonates.

Inspired by Yarra Podcast One of the great ways to learn about history is to hear the stories of those who lived it. Inspired by Yarra is a podcast series of conversations with our YOGs who recall funny, compelling, informative and inspiring stories. Hosted by our School Chaplain, Paul Joy, guests share some of their fondest memories of their time at Yarra and how that helped establish their lives their families and their careers to this day.

Episode 37 (of over 50 published to date) features Abbie Roodenburg (nee Underwood) (YOG 1996).

Each of us has been inspired by Yarra in some way. We now have a way to listen

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‘‘The Yarra Spirit brings to mind how everyone bonded and encouraged one another.’’

to these uplifting stories first hand on the Inspired by Yarra podcast HERE. Don’t miss it!

If you have any suggestions for someone you think would be a great guest on an upcoming episode, please drop us a line at yog@yvg.vic.edu.au.

Mark Garrett

YOG Gallery Nominations

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

YOG 1980, CEO and Chairman

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Following his 1980 Year 12 at Yarra Valley, Mark completed a Bachelor of Economics at the University of Melbourne and a Graduate Diploma of Applied Information Systems at RMIT. Employment with CIBA-Geigy soon meant a move to Switzerland.

There he met his wife and they had three sons together.

Mark rose to head one of CIBA’s divisions before moving to the United States to work with Dupont in 1999. It was then back to Switzerland and CIBA before he was headhunted in 2007 to Borealis AG in Vienna.

As CEO of Borealis AG, he took the company’s value from €2.5 billion to €30 billion during his

eleven years in the position. In 2007 it employed some 5,000 people and today it employs around 10,000 people.

It was for his work in this new position that the Austrian President awarded him the “Grand Silver Medal with Star” for services to the Republic of Austria. This is the highest Austrian award an ordinary civilian can be granted as the Gold Medal is reserved for Heads of State.

In his commendation, the Austrian President mentions, that in 2009 Borealis built a world class Innovation Centre in Linz and recruited 400 researchers.

Over the years they developed a very close relationship with key

research universities in Austria.

This resulted in Borealis becoming an innovation leader in the country, being consistently the number one registerer of patents in Austria.

Borealis established a social fund and paid up to €5 million per year into the fund.

The fund became a leading philanthropic organisation in Austria investing in the focused areas of education, water and sanitation, and the environment via specific targeted investments with partners.

We are currently looking for new female nominees for the YOG Gallery. This gallery showcases a selection of YOGs who have achieved exceptional things in their life since graduating.

Their achievements reflect the values that are central to an education from Yarra; confidence, intelligence and a sense of community.

If you, or a YOG you know fits the criteria, please email yog@yvg.vic.edu.au.

Criteria for Inclusion Business: YOG must be in a senior position at an ASX/NYSE listed equivalent company Academia: Professors Sport: Professional level Other: • Highly acclaimed in media industry • Internationally acclaimed artist • Exceptional achievement and/or recognition in their field, at the discretion of the Principal

The company became Austria´s most profitable company and largest tax payer. In addition, he then mentioned the building of

two mega projects in the UAE (Borouge 2 and Borouge 3). The award was presented in Austria’s Marble Hall by the Minister for Economics and Digitalisation.

his achievements and wish him a long and rewarding retirement. We are also grateful to Geoff Emmett (YOG 1979) for bringing Mark’s award to our attention.

Mark retired in June 2018 and took up a role in August 2018 running a holding company in Hamburg called Marquard and Bahls. We congratulate him on

John Close Archivist

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

Yarra Old Grammarians Football Club News This article was meant to be informing the Yarra Community about the Bushranger’s sensational 2020 season. We were meant to be celebrating the fact that both our men’s and women’s teams are sitting unbeaten on top of their respective ladders with premierships surely just over the horizon.

However, despite a great preseason and some suburb practice match results, the VAFA season is yet to begin for 2020. Like the rest of the country, our charges are cooling their jets until they get the green light to resume hostilities. Hopefully, in the not too distant future.

Veteran defender Dean Letson (YOG 2002) has seen plenty of pre-seasons but few have buzzed like this one. The men’s side alone had 18, yes 18, new players come down to rejuvenate the team.

According to Dean, “Numbers have

been great at training and the influx of young players gives the club a real buzz, they push you harder in time trials and ensure competition for spots in the seniors is red hot.”

“Our practice match form was really good, we played with flair and excitement and I was really looking forward to seeing what they would produce as the season progressed.”

The lockdown couldn’t have come at a worse time for our premiership winning women’s teams. The club had hoped to field a third women’s team in 2020 which would make the women’s program one of the largest women’s programs in the Eastern Suburbs.

There was no sign of a premiership hangover for the girls, now in the second highest grade of the county’s biggest women’s football league. Small forward, Elyse Westwood (YOG 2018), described preseason as: “

An exciting time for all of the girls. We jumped back into training quite quickly, determined to continue our winning streak. I definitely missed seeing everyone’s faces, training always has such a fun and enjoyable atmosphere, which is a credit to the girls and coaching staff.”

The club has just resumed “social distance” training. With an extended football season to continue to right through to the end of October, the club still has high hopes for 2020.

According to Elyse they will be ready to roll when the green light is given.

“We have been training hard over the past few weeks, we are all very ready and eager to play! Fitness is at an all time high across our teams, we will be coming out strong, aiming to get a few wins.”

The club was also very proud to have many members compete in the YVG Virtual House Cross Country.

As always the club welcomes players and supporters from across the Yarra Community and can provide a temporary club for anyone whose existing club has cancelled their season already. You can contact the club by emailing secretary@yogfc. com.au Luke Gillies (YOG 1999) Yarra Old Grammarians Football Club

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Class of 1979 40 Year Out Reunion

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

Saturday 12 October, Yarra Valley Grammar

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YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS 29

Class of 1979 - 40 Year Out Reunion

Class of 1989 30 Year Out Reunion

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

Saturday 12 October, Yarra Valley Grammar

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YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS 31

Class of 1989 - 30 Year Out Reunion

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

Celebrations

Nick Chamberlain (YOG 2005) and Kate Nick and his partner Kate welcomed Henry Andrew Chamberlain on 26 March 2020.

Henry is an energetic boy and already loves Scott Pendlebury!

Grant Nel (YOG 2006) and Amanda Grant and his wife Amanda welcomed Elise Michel Nel in December 2019. Elise has settled in well at home.

Sam Harper (YOG 2015) and Georgia Rogers (YOG 2015) After meeting at Yarra and graduating together in 2015, Sam and Georgia were very excited to announce their engagement earlier this year.

Ben Piggott (YOG 2002) and Caitlin Ben Seeger (YOG 2002) and Melissa

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Ben and his partner Melissa welcomed Willow Jean Seeger on 18 June 2020.

Willow will shortly begin her training for the YOGFC women’s team.

Ben and his partner Caitlin welcomed Aston David Piggott on 16 January 2020. Ben and Caitlin couldn’t be happier with their little man.

YARRA VALLEY GRAMMAR

Vale

Fred Carstens Fred Carstens, former Head of Senior School at YVG, passed away from cancer on 1 April at the age of 76. Fred was a most personable and energetic man.

He coached our YVG swimming team and ran in the cross country events. He was also a first class English teacher and did much to establish debating as one of the School’s strengths.

Due to restrictions, there was only immediate family at his funeral. It is hoped that a memorial service will be held later in the year to celebrate Fred’s life. We send our sincere condolences to Jan and the Carstens family.

John King John King passed away on 9 April this year. John taught Grade 5 in our Junior School from 1973 to 1979 after which he joined the newly instituted Billanook and from there went on to work with ACER. In retirement he and his wife ran a large and very successful B&B at Camperdown, named ‘Timboon House’, where he was active in the community.

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During his more than 20 years’ service he was Head of English, Director of Educational Services and Head of Senior School.

Later on the couple moved to Ballarat.

John went through Melbourne Teachers’ College with Leigh Murray and they both played football for the College team.

At YVG he coached junior football teams and taught Year 5 for some years in an open classroom with Jim Billings and Martin Burnell. We remember him as a friendly and industrious fellow teacher.

Help us Reconnect

YARRA OLD GRAMMARIANS

Thank you to everyone who has already assisted us with our Help us Reconnect campaign. As a result, we have successfully reconnected with many of our Yarra Old Grammarians. We would particularly love to reconnect with those who have reunions next year so we can invite them to important events. If you are able to assist in contacting any of the below YOGs, please contact the Development Office on 03 9262 7717 or email development@yvg.vic.edu.au.

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Class of 1971

Class of 1981

Class of 1991

Class of 2001

Class of 2011

Class of 2016

P Bates Rogan Bayard Andrew Baylor Chris Elliot Robert Gunter Andrew Hoffman Shane McDonald Robert McEwan Robin Metcalfe Philip Noyes Ian Page Mark Petch Stephen Roberts Jeffrey Seymour Richard Spencer Andrew Staples Chris Teubert Lindsay Wilkins Peter Williams David Williamson Andrew Wong Yen

Lisa Abbott Kristine Angus Gordon Blake Simon Caples Christopher Catterall Jeremy Couper Christopher Darvall David Fowler Craig Fuller Wayne Funston Ian Garbepgo Neil Gilbert Kim Gordon Craig Griffett Timothy Ham Timothy Hampwood Robert Harvey Deborah Hersey Carol Jamson Wesley Jones Andrew Leggatt Stephen Lumb Lachlan McPherson John Mitchell Nicholas Mitchell Timothy Moran Catherine Nicol Stuart Nicolson Stuart Patrick Tracie Pile Ian Pomeroy Sarah Presland Richard Probert Gary Robinson John Taylor Grahame White Philip Wilson Andrew Young

Paul Adelerhof Sarah Allen Jason Andrews Lydia Armour Adrian Atherton Ross Bathie Ashley Bird Toby Bridson Robert Brown Sara Brown Christopher Callow Richard Carnell Adam Carr Michelle Clayton Angus Curry Jonathon Dexter Nicholas Donaldson G Fitzmaurice Duncan Freemantle Richard Gordon Simone Hancock Belinda Harris Kym Harrison Nicole Harvey Nerida Leggatt Callum Macleod Jarrod Martin Kellee O’Hare Grit Opperman Joanne Parry Melanie Ritter Trent Rowe Matthew Scully Todd Shattock Dawn Smithson Lisa Tatai Baden U’Ren Melissa White

James Aiton Jeanne Bardin Eleise Britt Kate Burt Timothy Carter Adam Cooper Peter Crosthwaite Robert Davis Kate Donchi Regina Einschenk Phillip Etherington Hayley Gillin Che Hickey Felix Higgs Brianna Ho Andrew Horvat Andrew Howson Tim Jacobs Ryan Kemp Nikolas Lamshed Luke Lennox Ian Marler Graham McCormick Daniella Napoleone Yann-Cedric Pauchon Andrew Pearson Robert Petchell Jonathan Reeve Alan Sanders Josh Stilwell Scott Tenberge Wesley Thomas Richard Wallington Jennifer Watson Tamara Whittington Sheldon Wynne Renee Xenophontos Janelle Yunghanns

Brinton Bray Matthew Burns Kirby Chenhall Clare Cipa Thomas Clapham Sebastien Collier Sapphire Daly Michael France Taylor Hinton Nicholas Keogh Matthew Lelliott Jessica Lyon Ashlyn Lyons Sarah McKendry Xavier Mignot Brittany Parsons Blair Robertson Christian Russell Octavian Simu Anita Strauks Owen Vickery Carsten von Arnim Tasha Watkins

Stevie Bailey Paul Butler Lauren Cesa William Daw Sophie Dewey Heather Dickie Natalie Egan Nikki Hobman Craig Hughes Kane McMaster Liam Mitsis Kyle Morgan Ryan Paterson Jaymie Richardson -

Stevens Edward Saunders Olivia Shakes Aly Smead Indiana Taylor Luke Tehan Tyrone Van Niekerk Lilly Wilkinson

To view more photos of YOG events featured in this magazine please visit yvg.vic.edu.au/our-community/gallery.

To view more photos of events at Yarra please visit yvg.vic.edu.au/news-and-events/photo-gallery

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Ringwood, Victoria