Volume 7: No 3 November 2004 THE THREE WISHES
In my dreams I was visited by the Good Fairy and she told me that she would grant me three wishes for the continued success of the Wagga Wagga Teachers’ College Alumni. What should I wish for?
My first wish must be for the Committee! Perhaps that they enjoy good health, longevity, enthusiasm and inspiration. No, that is a selfish and narrow thought. Our Committee has been a dedicated one but has consisted of ex-students from the first four or five years of the life of the College which was an institution for twenty five years. So my first wish is that the students of the later years will be encouraged to make themselves available to attend the four Committee Meetings we hold each year where their thoughts and inspiration might rejuvenate the Committee. Any ex-student is eligible to attend and to vote on issues and to introduce suggestions by attending these meetings. They are not onerous or long meetings and are held from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 p.m. at the Teachers’ Credit Union Office at Homebush. These meetings are followed by a light luncheon. The dates are advertised in Talkabout. It could be that some may feel like taking an active role in our organisation – believe me, they will be warmly welcomed. Ex-students please think seriously about how you can contribute to our Association.
My second wish is for the continued success of Talkabout, but this can only be achieved by the continued contribution of articles. Again I appeal to those later year ex-students to regale us with some interesting aspects or memories of their teaching careers. Teachers like to compare experiences that they have had during their teaching years.
For my third wish I would like to see, not only more session reunions, but more regular whole College reunions. This can only be organised with greater communication between ex-students. Remember, our next big reunion is in 2005 and then our 60th in 2007. There won’t be many around to celebrate our 75th and none for our Centenary. Lew Morrell
The Scholarship Fund is over $40,000. PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE TEACHING MEMORIES S I DDY anecdote, whom I had managed to get into Yanco; a competitive agricultural On my return to Sydney after my “Diamonds are Forever”, so goes the high school. As the crime was weeks obligatory country service in the mid words of a popular song for a James old before the identity of the thief was 1950’s, I was appointed to Carlingford Bond movie “007” of, I think, the same revealed to me, I knew I had no hope of PS where I was allocated an OB class; a name. getting the pen back. Siddy’s dad was in small group of Years 3 and 4 jail and his mum was of similar ilk to What has this to do with the W.W.T.C. underachievers. her son. Alumni ? However, it was an OB class in name One advantage of Siddy’s limitations 60th anniversaries can be regarded as only as in a true OB class students were was his lack of guile as the following attracting the title of ‘Diamond’ and the supposed to return to the normal stream incident will illustrate. year 2007 is such an occasion for our after making up for their deficiencies. Alumni. Tenuous no doubt, but the In this class, I was stuck with the same While my back was turned to the class, importance of this milestone in 2007 is group for the whole year. The reason for one of the little girls raised her hand and of the greatest importance. labeling the group an OB class was to said, “Sir, Siddy just hit me on the enable the group to be small (around head.” Established in 1947, often overlooked twenty-two, from memory). There was or acknowledged, W.W.T.C. through the I immediately went to the cupboard to also a very good reason for having this activities of its Alumni and the get my useful “teaching aid” (of the small group. The only teaching space faithfulness of its alumnus, has long, slender, yellowish kind) and called available was a semi-converted weather gradually brought to the attention of the Siddy to the front of the class. shed - the type usually favoured for the educational fraternity and the civic game of pussy-in-the-corner. Unwilling to administer the punishment fathers, the fact that this was the without Siddy’s first admitting to his beginning of an unique, valuable and The conversion was achieved by the crime, I asked, “Why did you hit her on successful experiment. removal of the peripheral seating and the head, Siddy?” And so to 2007. Why so far ahead with the nailing of a few old notice boards to our planning? the front of the shed to give some “I didn’t, Sir,” replied Siddy. protection from the wind; at least to “But she said you did. She wouldn’t say This should be a time of reunion that about a metre from the floor. There that unless you did,” I explained. “Nup. surpasses that of 1997 (50th were no windows or door as such, I didn’t,” Siddy insisted. anniversary) and encompasses all areas merely open spaces. influenced by the activities emanating Then I asked, “Did you hit her hard or At least I can claim one success from from W.W.T.C. and the educational soft, Siddy?” institutions that followed. We have the class as one boy, called Philip, later tentatively approached the C.S.U. went on to become both school captain “Soft, Sir,” came the answer. and school dux. However, the same Alumni for their co-operation in this “Out with your hand, Siddy.” venture and how best they can cannot be said of Siddy. I have to admit contribute. that, even after a full year of my tuition, I have no idea what became of Siddy in he was still unable to write his own later life but I hope, for his sake, that he The resources of Wagga Wagga itself name. Despite his lack of literary skills, did not follow his father into a life of must be harnessed and utilised. From all it was he who stole my Parker 51 pen crime as I am sure he would not have who have affiliation with our Alumni which was given to me by a grateful been very good at it. we are going to canvass for ideas as to pupil, mentioned in a previous how to make this 2007 reunion the Michael Austin 1950-51 success it deserves to be. It would be most beneficial if we could form a separate sub committee to control and CONTACTS organise through the W.W.T.C. Management Committee this reunion. President: Bob Collard: 2 Louise Close, Ourimbah 2258 Phone 4362 2764 Secretary: Ann Smith: 24 Whitworth St, Westmead 2145 Phone 9635 0449 Volunteers will be most welcome. E-mail: [email protected] Please think deeply about this project Treasurer: Lindsay Budd: 4 Flemington Close, Casula 2170 Phone 9601 3003 and submit all your ideas in the first E-mail: [email protected] instance to me personally as our Talkabout Editors: Secretary already has a full agenda. Lindsay Budd Later when we form our organising Lew Morrell: 25 Grandview Drive, Newport 2106 committee we will direct all the Phone 9997 1506 E-mail: [email protected] information to them. John Riley: 2 Woorak Cres, Miranda 2228 Many thanks in anticipation. Phone 9525 5304 E-mail: [email protected] Alumni Office: Michelle Fawkes: The Alumni Office, Charles Sturt University, Bob Collard. Bathurst 2795. Phone 6338 4629. E-mail: [email protected]
Page 2 From the him so we can obtain an address and Thank you for contacting and for put him on the mailing list? responding. Secretary’s Desk. Does anyone have the address of Patrick Hugh O’Neal 55-56 still Josette Vera Degetardi nee Yule, 62- teaches most days and enjoys it more 63? and more. He wants to know where you are Ron Lampert. The time has come for some of the early Dennis Norris 1957 would like to students to move to better contact Garry Quinlivin (is 1957 your accommodation which takes their health year?) Judy Schmidt 62-63 would like into consideration. Jim Cleary 54-55 to hear from her friends Noeline and has moved into a retirement village. Carmel. She lives in South Australia Ross Bree, a Pioneer still plays Chess. now. At College he used his musical talents. For some years Esther Simpfendorfer He intends to move into a retirement (“Essie”) a 1948-50 colleague living in village next year. June and Bob Albury, has been suffering severe health Werner, 51-52 have moved from problems that have resulted in major Broken Hill to Valla Beach, Macksville. changes to her life style. Contact was I am writing this after I joined the 1963- They look after a big garden on their made with her recently, during which 64 Alumni for their reunion in block, teach and travel. she expressed her appreciation of September in Canberra. I congratulated Talkabout. On behalf of all who knew them on their organization and I am sure Carmel Dobbie 58-59 exchanged Essie, we send her our love and best that anyone who came to that reunion houses for a holiday in Canada, wishes. enjoyed themselves. Some of the ideas Kathleen Lawton 63-64 is still they used could be used in future teaching in the Northern Territory. Rest in Peace reunions. One such idea was the Hall of Cavel Payne 67-68 teaches Maths at Fame in which Marion Giddy Wooloware High School. Rosemary Lecturer Joyce Wiley died on 6th June nominated John Hargreaves (1963-64), Johnson nee Errington 54-55 lives in 2004 the actor, to be a member. Further details Queensland. She taught for 13 years, The following deaths are confirmed, of her nomination are in another part of has three daughters and enjoys although they happened some time ago. Talkabout. Have you thought of anyone Talkabout. Colin Garner and his wife Pat Leahy, lecturer in P.E. else who might be nominated? Do let us Susan nee Harvey 67-68 both teach in Caroline Ann Carrigy nee Luton know. Hong Kong Their daughter redirects 1952-53. During the past three months the Talkabout to them. Maurice Norman 1952-53. following have helped with addresses: Reginald George Byrnes 1952-53 , Helen Pearce 68-69, Helen Watson Frances Gavel nee McKeough 49-50 from cancer on 19th August 1999. 69-71, Alan Mills 63-64, and Clair has felt the drought in Condobolin. John Michael Rose 1963-64 from Boxwell 59-60. Please don’t rest on Noreen Brown nee Nevin 56-57 lives colon cancer on 5th December 2003. your laurels. That list is small when in the Northern Territory. She enjoys compared with those who are temporary Talkabout. lost and will need to be worked on next Donald Kelly 58-59 and his wife have COMING EVENTS year. been overseas. Dudley John Cowell 1956 finished his From the last issue of Talkabout Don second year of training in Victoria and WWTC ALUMNI LUNCHEON: Talbot 51-52 did admit to being the retired when he was fifty five. “window opener”. Unfortunately the at Masonic Club number given to me to ring back was Enid Monoghan nee Carter 48-50 Castlereigh Street, Sydney not clear so I could not return your call, lives on the Central Coast. She was on Friday, 19th November, Don. aware that Audrey Kirkland and Ruth 2004. Another admission came from Alan Cowled were both deceased, but do we Waters 66-67, who admitted that he did know what happened to them? ALUMNI ASSOCIATION get into some mischievous things while MEETING: at college, but eventually became a In a letter from Tiu Malo 59-60 in Suva Chartered Accountant. Fiji, he wrote that, after receiving The Annual General Meeting Talkabout, many memories of Wagga will be held at 11 am on In the July issue I asked about a student Wagga, the Riverina District and the Tuesday, 1st February, 2005 who is an artist. Greg Buddle 64-65 people of Australia came back He had at the Teachers Credit Union, suggested that it was possibly David come to Australia to do a Junior Homebush, 1st Floor. Garth Rankin (same section).We have Secondary School Training School. All Alumni are invited to found out that he is married, has (Section 597. He stayed in the loving, attend. children and possibly lives in New caring home of Mr and Mrs Wright at Snack lunch available plus tea York. Has anyone kept in touch with 41 Copland Street. Tiu was contacted by and biscuits. Bob Teasdale 59-60 who works in Fiji. Page 3 Ann Smith LETTERS PAGE A Letter to a Forty-niner to the Overseas Missions Department of Reply from Tiu Malo from a Sixty Niner. the Methodist Church of Australia. In 1964 the Fiji Methodist Church became Suva, Fiji Dear Ann, independent and took over the Dear Ann, Please allow me, through Talkabout to responsibility for churches and schools. I have stopped writing letters for quite let Beth McDonald nee Seton know “Mission staff” were fully occupied in some time but I found a pen and started that her life which she describes as the old days. No free periods during the it all over again. Thank you for your “fairly uneventful”, with no grand titles day. Organised sport was held after letter and those copies of Talkabout. or outstanding achievements sounds to school hours. They brought back beautiful memories me like a life well lived. (See Talkabout The boarders had to be supervised. of Wagga Wagga, the Riverina District July 2004). Vegetables, the staple food, had to be and the people of Australia. grown. Work in the garden was required Bob Teasdale was my greatest friend As teachers, we don’t aim to make our from all boarders. Tiu had large primary when I arrived at Wagga Wagga in teaching achievements about us, but classes. He was quiet and well 1959. He remains the greatest to this about making school and learning organised and so were his classes. My day. He is over at USP as Project inspiring for children. Congratulations job was to teach English to High School Director of the Pacific Regional to those teachers who achieve the titles students. The Fiji Junior and the Senior Initiatives for the Delivery of Basic and acclaim which they deserve but for Cambridge were the big exams. The Education (the PRIDE Project). I am so most of us the reality of our teaching work was demanding but the students proud of Bob. To me he is from Wagga experience has been that we teach, we were keen and appreciative, self-reliant Wagga, not Australia. He is the Wagga take part in committees and the running and happy. model for commitment and hard work, of our schools and then we go home. Thank you, Mr Bob Teasdale, for news so I see it that way. of Tiu Malo. I remember Bob as a When I read your story, Beth, I saw a young man. Now we are turning seventy I came to Wagga Wagga to do a Junior woman devoted to her family, friends and are grandparents! I will have to Secondary School Training Course, and and community. You obviously have write and congratulate him on his Section 597 was doing just that. It was a happy memories of your great impressive career. great experience which enabled me to experiences—going to college— Some of your readers will recall make a better contribution to teaching at marriage and family. Nacanieli Rika and Ruth Frank. They the Junior level of the Church were teaching in Fiji in those days. Secondary Schools in Fiji. Perhaps Beth and other readers in her Each came to Wagga College for further area would like to come along to a training, and then returned to Fiji. But the best of Wagga Wagga was at 41 meeting of the Retired Teachers Nacanieli became Principal of Lelean Copland Street, opposite the Southern Association which has now been School in mid 1986. I’m sorry to say Riverina Electricity complex, the home formed in Wagga Wagga. We are that Nacanieli and his Australian wife of Mr and Mrs E Wright. This was the meeting once a month with the idea of Dorothy each died some years ago. And accommodation the Church found for sharing our experiences and enjoying some years ago I heard that Ruth me and it was this loving and caring some social activities as well as Frank’s sister had died and Ruth had home that made it possible for me to do discussing and addressing ongoing married her widower brother-in-law and that Section 597 course at Wagga educational issues. I would be prepared helped him raise the children. Wagga Teachers’ College. to put Beth up for the night if the Thank you again, Best wishes, travelling is too much. Margery Bonsor (Bollen) 1953-54 Tiu Malo. 1959-60 With regards Helen Watson 6 / 54 Adjin Street Wagga Wagga 2650 Activity George 32 Amaroo Street, More about Tiu Malo Kooringal. 2650 Dear Lindsay, Dear John (Riley), Greetings from an old girl of 1953-54. Congratulations on the production of Thank you for Talkabout. It is always ‘Talkabout’. I really enjoy reading it interesting and yesterday I was and then I pass it on to my father to surprised to read about Tiu Malo. read. Dad is Geoff Potter, who was the From 1963 to 1966 I taught at the same Principal of Mt. Austin Primary School school where Tiu was teaching. The from its inception in 1959 and then at Lelean Memorial School at Nausori, Kooringal Primary School from 1961 Fiji was co-educational and multi-racial. Tiu Malo until the early 80’s. Dad had many A rare school in those days but a credit dealings with the Lecturers from WWTC and the students during their Page 4 Prac. Teaching times. Sadly dad lost his interesting booklet was published. If Wagga Base Hospital. It was an old lifelong companion when mum, you think it would be of any interest I cottage in the hospital grounds and all (Mavis), who was the sewing teacher at could photocopy articles from the the windows were barred. When my these schools, passed away in July. Dad booklet for Talkabout. friends visited they stood at a distance has just turned 85 and is mentally on the Regards and all the best with your great and talked to me through the bars. it ball but his body is letting him down. publication. was a lonely existence at first as I was Dad read the article on George Fay Everson 1960-61. the only patient in this “prison”, but Blakemore and wanted to add to it. Dad within a day or two I was joined by and Mum went to Armidale Teachers’ The Chicken Pox Epidemic other students who had also succumbed College and this is what dad says. to the disease. By now the initial feeling “I first met the late George Blakemore Sawtell NSW of illness had worn off and calamine in 1939 when he was the Headmaster of Dear Lindsay, lotion took care of the itch. the Armidale Demonstration School. Having neglected to contribute to Mr Blakemore continually emphasised Talkabout (which I read with interest) in The isolation ward took on the the importance of pupil activity. At the the past, I am forwarding a contribution atmosphere of an extended weekend end of 1939 a couple of students put to cover this year and last year. house party as we talked and laughed two fleas in cotton wool in a box and together. After a week or so we sent the box to Mr Blakemore with the As a matter of interest, do any other recovered and returned to the normal following message:- past students remember the Chicken routine of lectures. ‘Activity George- The fleas will help Pox “epidemic” of 1957? with your activity’. This was where he Regards, got the name of ‘Activity George’”. I was the second student to break out in W.G. Potter the telltale spots. The first student lived Judy (Steen) Woodlands 1957-58 Past Principal Kooringal Public School. locally and was sent home. I pleaded with matron to do likewise but as I lived In 2002 Turvey Park Dem. School in Sydney my request was refused and I
celebrated 50 years of education and an was admitted to the isolation ward of ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
SEEKING LOST ALUMNI
This is a list of those who had their Margaret, Anne, Fielding, 1955 Margaret, Mary, Murphy, 1953 names on the Data List (mailing list) but Tony, , Foggerty, 1955 Peter, John, Murphy, 1971 Leslie, Raymond, Noon, 1953 whose letters have come back Raymond, Arthur, Foord, 1961 Noel, William, Fox, 1966 Geoffrey, John, O’brien, 1950 unclaimed to the Alumni office and no Joan, Margaret, Peard, 1968 replacement address has been found. Geoffrey, William, Giles, 1950 Marcelle, , Guymer, 1956 Ian, James, Rasmussen, 1966 If you know the whereabouts of any of Kay, Frances, Hastings, 1966 Sandra, Ann, Rees, 1971 these Alumni could you please contact Ann John, Leo, Hennessey, 1954 Trevor, James, Richards, 1962 Smith with the details. Anne, Sonia, Henzell, 1956 John, Charles, Roberts, 1965 Gai-Maree, , Hilditch, 1966 Alan, Maxwell Joseph, Rosevear, 1965 Margaret, Florance, Alexander, 1957-58 Kerry, , Hollands, 1966 David, Frederick, Ross, 1963 Maxine, Elizabeth, Anderson, 1959-60 Edmund, Francis, Hore, 1960 Kevin, Thomas, Ryan, 1950 Raymond, John, Anderson, 1958-59 Helen, Mary, Horne, 1970 Annette, Therese, Sale, 1967 Robert, John, Anderson, 1957-58 Noel, Francis, Hudson, 1966 Susie, , Sanderson, 1966 Cynthia, Rae, Armstrong, 1951-52 Sera, , Johnson, 1967 Lesley, Jill, Saunders, 1962 Peter, Charles, Barclay, 1959-60 Christopher, John, Lennon, 1965 John, H, Shaw, Malcolm, Robert, Beazley, 1962-63 Vernon, Lazarus, Lilienthal, 1967 Judith, Anne, Shepherd, 1967 Douglas, Gordon, Boughton, 1962 Charles, Robert, Lucas, 1960 Judith, Ann, Spencer, 1971 Carolyn, Linda, Brogan, 1968 Ronald, William, Lyons, 1971 Valerie, , Stephenson, 1965 Thea, Margaret, Burgess, 1958 Neil, Keith, Macintosh, 1954 Diane, Elizabeth, Strong, 1963 Noel, Alexander, Byrnes, 1965 Monica, Mary, Maloney, 1968 Megan, Helen, Stuart, 1974 Pamela, Mary, Callaghan, 1965 Robert, Stanley, March, 1960 Barry, Donald, Stumbles, 1968 Marilyn, H, Cameron, 1954 David, , Martin, 1961 Joan, Marie, Tunney, 1971 Kim, Patricia, Carr, 1968 John, Albert, Martin, 1971 Francine, May, Voss, 1966 Robert, Charles, Carter, 1963 Leone, Mary, McInerney, 1963 Robert, Graham, Waters, 1961 Douglas, Edwin, Chapman, 1954 Elizabeth, Anne, McLaren, 1961 Kathleen, , Webb, 1971 Peter, Roy, Colwell, 1971 Neil, Anthony, McPherson, 1957 Kaye, Annette, West, 1962 Dianne, June, Cook, 1971 Bruce, Raymond, McWhirter, 1959 Diane, Barbara, Williams, 1971 Roger, Edward, Craig, 1965 Margaret, Anne, Middleton, 1958 Patricia, Anne, Wilson, 1957 Lynda, May, Donnelly, 1967 Joseph, Andrew, Moore, 1971 Raymond, Francis, Wood, 1949 Ronald, James, Duffy, 1958 Peter, John, Muldoon, 1965 Janice, Daisy, Woods, 1955 John, Douglas, Duncan, 1970 William, , Mullan, 1971 Suzanne, Mary, York, 1966 Gretchen, Gladwell, Edmunds, 1959 Page 5 REUNION PAGE
Lauren and Russ Warfield, David Giles, Marion Smith, Sue Upton, Gail and Jock Grant, Bill Frost and Colin Doherty WWTC 63/64 REUNION – stripes at the Canberra Club for Lunch played favourite roles, presenting on Saturday. Barrier positions were uncanny impersonations of Marie 40 Years and Still Going Strong! determined after the inevitable show O’Donnell, Maurice Hale, Wimpy A significant and memorable event and tell, brag and skite sessions , which Wade, Mabel Milthorpe and Lonnie occurred in Canberra over the weekend were all necessary preliminaries to the Large. of 24th –26th September. Only in main event. Observers of the parade were concerned Astrological circles do such Many starters for the main event on that Percy and The Fone had both been conjunctions occur. The coming Saturday evening travelled great nobbled. It would seem that this was together of the Canberra cup, Floriade distances and, without the benefit of self-inflicted within the confines of the and the WWTC 63/64 Reunion, a one in earlier renewals were reliant on the club during an afternoon of reminiscing. forty year event that brought with it all 1964 mug shots of the year group in Handlers will be available for future of the expected surprises, and what an order to gain some recognition. Even meets. However The Fone did make a event it was. The Age of Aquarius with those who had the benefit of earlier temporary recovery and got a spring in less hair! meetings had cause to revisit the his step when he recognised a female The long weekend began with a day at photographs throughout the night. cast member of old and managed to the Canberra Races on the Friday. Here It has been recommended that all covet this prize for the remainder of the early form was determined and the participants receive a wallet of photos evening. pattern for a fabulous weekend was set. with large names and a magnifying A surprise event was the presentation of The fourth race heralded to all what glass for the next gathering, in the style stayers’ awards to all participants, powerful connections can do. A horse of an Edwardian dance diary, to be presented by Prof. David Green on part-owned by one of the Alumni, Sue worn on the wrist for ready reckoning. behalf of the CSU. Formal activities King (Upton), broke stride from a trot The dinner was well attended by over included a special tribute to John and galloped to a convincing win; much 100 guests, with close to seventy of the Hargreaves. It was also a time to reflect to the delight of the faithful who had original population. It was opened to the and remember absent friends. backed the beast on Sue’s confident strains of “God please don’t harm us” The evening ended all too quickly but predictions. (Gaudeamus) and the grand parade of many dim memories had been rekindled The second event was the spit roast get- WWTC ‘colourfuls’, with three and associations renewed. It was a great together that night. This gathering was a originals being present. That Graeme reunion. mix of the young at heart and the Boardman, Brian Fone and Colin Sale The final fixture was brunch on Sunday stayers. The weight-for-age specialists had taken the trouble and time to share morning, and here the stayers gathered were clearly saving themselves for the this gathering with the group is greatly around the trough for a post-mortem on main event on Saturday evening. appreciated. It stands as testament to the the previous days’ events and one last Nametags were in great demand and group and the very special qualities that look at the “who the hell is that “ replaced at frequent intervals as they many Lecturers from WWTC shared picture board . invariably peeled away and were with their students. Thank you and we consumed in the canapés and salad. hope this continues. That such good The Committee voted unanimously that Continual reference to these tags was people see fit to share our antics as many as twelve dams should be on a required to keep the conversation validates our nonsense of years ago. much higher handicap at the next flowing. gathering unless they showed signs of Several attendees claim that ‘Fanny’ reasonable wear and tear, commensurate Lead-up meetings such as this serve to Bridges was there but we did manage to with pentagenarians. Elegance, style determine handicaps and to check on convince this group of past miscreants and retained youth were not seen as overall form and clarify the colours. that it was one of our own who had mitigating circumstances. There was a minor slip-up here , as adopted twitches and mannerisms to several fillies were in black and white great effect. Others of our number Doug Walker 1963-64 Page 6 HALL OF FAME JOHN HARGREAVES In the world of television, John worked Some comments from his peers: his way up from playing ‘baddies’ in “Homicide”, to starring roles in series “The vitality, the life force, the grin, the such as “Young Ramsay” and “Scales infectious laugh, the caring friend and of Justice”. He is probably best known companion, the active political on television for his portrayal of Jim campaigner on behalf of the Australian Cairns in “The Dismissal”. film industry, and finally the huge talent which was never given quite the scope John launched his movie career with it deserved. “The Removalists” in 1974. From there But what’s even more compelling is the he went on to star in a number of intelligence and honesty with which Australian films including “Don’s John remembers his own life.” Party”, “The Odd Angry Shot”, David Williamson “Emerald City” and “Hotel Sorrento”. He also acted in a number of “For me, he was Australia’s most international productions. intelligent and foremost actor.” In 1984 John won the Australian Film Chris Haywood Institute Award for Best Actor for his role in “My First Wife”. He also won “He was a brilliant actor, one of our awards for Best Supporting Actor for most exciting and daring.” The Wagga Wagga Teachers College his parts in “Careful, He Might Hear Ruth Cracknell Hall of Fame has been established in You” (1984) and “Malcolm” (1986). order to acknowledge the outstanding In 1995 John was awarded the Byron **************** achievements of past students in the Kennedy Award, one of Australia’s fields of education, sports, science, the highest civilian awards that is given to arts and community leadership. Tonight people who exemplify the pursuit of I wish to nominate John Hargreaves as a excellence. member of our Hall of Fame. John Hargreaves passed away on 8th WWTC OPEN REUNION John was born in Murwillumbah in January, 1996. 1946 and later moved to Sydney where he was educated in the Catholic Schools Marion Giddy 1963-64 A reunion for all Alumni will be system. He enrolled at WWTC in 1963, held in Wagga on the Weekend and quickly established himself as a 30th September to 2nd October, spokesperson, leader and entertainer. 2005. As a member of the college drama group he gave memorable performances The Open reunion held in in “Our Town” and “The Lesson”, both Bathurst in 2003 was a great of which were directed by Brian Fone. success and many of those who attended expressed a John was elected as President of the desire to meet in 2005, this Students’ representative Council for time in Wagga. 1964. After graduation, John was appointed to Michelle Fawkes from the Mendooran Central School in the mid- Alumni Office will send initial west of N.S.W. He was later transferred information about the reunion to Crows Nest Boys’ High School. to all Alumni in the near future. His acting career began with small parts Why not arrange with some of in dramatic productions at the New your peers to form a group to Theatre in Kings Cross. He later attend and meet up with friends enrolled in the National Institute of and acquaintances you have Dramatic Art and graduated in 1970. met over the years. For a number of years he took part in theatrical productions at the Nimrod Theatre, the Old Tote and the Sydney Theatre Company. His early roles included a stage production of Biggles, directed by John Bell. Page 7 POTTED BIOGRAPHIES Since the last Talkabout several people Learning Classes in Oatley - German, When I returned to Sydney I did have written in with a Potted French, Archaeology, Australian Itinerant Remedial Teaching in Biography. These will be included in the Literature, Australian History, Metropolitan West area for three years. Potted Biography started last issue. If Decoupage. Still enjoy reading, many After those three years at Hassall Street you would like to let people know about hobbies and crafts and have a large School for Mildly Mentally you please send a short summary to one garden. Handicapped children I found it of the Editors 1948 – 1950 mentally fatiguing so I resigned and was fortunate to get a position as a Junior ELIZABETH (BETTY) PUNTON Red Cross Organiser. I did this for two 1947 - 1949 Schools: Trundle Primary 1950, Lake years. I could not afford to stay after Cargelligo 1951-53, Central Tilba, that so I went back to teaching. I got my JOYCE TRINDALL 1954-a reward for 3 years in the Far “mark” at Rosehill Primary School and The most rewarding time of my West! Narrandera Infants 1955-57, moved to Girraween as Deputy teaching career was teaching children Wyalong Public School 1958-59 (and Mistress. At age 45 I resigned again and with various learning problems, in a on the Promotion’s trail), Narrabri went overseas for a holiday. “disadvantaged” school (Infants’ Dept.). Infants Mistress 1960-61, Narrandera When I returned to Parramatta I sold my These children were most appreciative East Infants’ School 1962-68, West home and moved to Kiama. At the age and responsive to the enjoyment of Wyalong Public School 1969-85 (List 3 of 71 I came here to St Lukes Village being withdrawn from the classroom ‘71), West Wyalong Public School Hostel at Dapto. situation (teachers were also Principal 1985 -Mar. 88. Joined the appreciative) to play reading games ranks of retirees . A good rewarding 1951 – 1952 with frequent immediate rewards. These career. Since 1988 have been involved children gradually progressed from in community work, via Quota, church, ROY PARKER exhibiting disruptive, insolent Probus, History and heritage, travelled I’ve had a unique teaching career. From behaviour to friendly co-operative in Australia and once overseas. Garden, February, 1953 to Easter 1953 I was a helpful children, eager to please and to discovered cappucino! Meet with staff member at Eugowra P.S. From achieve to the best of their ability. friends, talk a lot, and have maintained then on I was T.I.C. in small schools to fairly good health. It’s good. Wonderful Principal 3 schools Principal Class 2 KEVIN WILCOX. to re-meet fellow 1948-50 W.W.T.C. then Principal Class 1. For only three SCHOOLS:- Kangiara 1949-51, Kelso people this weekend. months was I not my own boss in 1951-53, Eugowra 1953-59 , Bathurst schools. Since retirement I reside in High School 1960-66 Canterbury Girls’ 1949 - 50 Wollongong, play lawn bowls and till High 1967-72, Chester Hill High 1973- recently was an active member of the 83, Casula High 1984-87. Retired from GEORGINA RUTH HUTSON W.W.T.C. Alumni. Wagga Wagga Moorefield Girls’ High as Deputy My first appointment was to Albury Teachers’ College in 1952 is where I Principal in Feb., 1990. Since Primary School where I had a 4th Class met my wife — this was the greatest retirement we have travelled in Europe of 50 girls. I was the baby on the staff, year of my life. and Britain in 1991, Canada and U.S.A. as the other teachers were 50 plus. I had 1955 – 1956 in 1997, took our nine years old three beaut years there socially – water grandaughter to Europe and Britain in skiing on the Hume Weir and snow LYLE DUNN 2001, again toured in Europe, Great skiing in the winter at Falls Creek. I My first 3 years of teaching were at Britain and Ireland in 2002. Have also played hockey and tennis. Birchgrove Primary, after which I went attended Adult Leisure Learning in In the fourth year I got a shock move to to Granville Boys’ High as Music Oatley since 1990— taking German, Tumbarumba Central School and was Teacher. A year, 1964 was then spent on French, Calligraphy and Oil Painting. presented with a First Class of 55. I teacher exchange in Portsmouth, (G.B.). We have a large garden and spend many didn’t know how to teach them as I was Returning in 1965, I was appointed to happy hours tending it. primary trained BUT after three years South Sydney Boys’ High, I retired in there, with help from the Kindy teacher, 1985, having spent the last few years on WINIFRED WILCOX (WALSHAW) booklets from Ian D. Renwick and the staff of the English/History Schools:- Emu Plains 1949-51, Bathurst courses in the holidays, I learnt. department. Demonstration 1951-53, • Eugowra The staff there were all young. We 1957 - 1958 1953-56, Hurstville South 1967-73, played tennis, and golf, formed a Drama Cartwright 1974-76, Birrong 1977-80, Club and put on a few shows for the DOUGLAS BOOKER Kogarah 1981-84. Retired in 1984. locals. I was one of the sisters in Graduated U.N.E. 1961. Assistant Children : Son 1957 Son 1961. “Arsenic and Old Lace”. Appointments : Bankstown Cent, Tec., For travels see Kevin Wilcox above. Then I received a move to Granville Crookwell District Rural, Hunter’s Hill Excursion Committee for Royal Infants. I became interested in Remedial High, Forest High. Australian Historical Society 1981- Education and received a scholarship to Head Teacher History - Chatswood 1992. Attended and helped run Leisure Queensland University to do a course. High 13 years. Deputy Principal Balmain High 6 years, St Ives High 8 Page 8 POTTED BIOGRAPHIES years. Retired in 1995. Currently B.C. Canada, Eden, Bega. Recently COLIN “JOCK” GRANT running a small sheep property and Kingswood South - casual. I’ve had W.W.T.C. 1963-65 (I repeated) researching early records of white other careers in between : Sales Man- Won Neil Sainsbury Dramatic Art Prize contact with aboriginal people. agement (Royal Scandinavia), medical (1965). Heavily involved in Drama with Executive HTA 3 terms. Chaired HTA practice runner? Marketing business. the great Brian Fone who directed me in History Committee 10 years. Syllabus Semi retired in Drummoyne. “The Glass Menagerie”. Deputy Committee Ancient History 3 terms. Farming cattle/deer, Bega. Principal in Armidale. Retired at the end North Sydney Region Secondary Audio Parented six kids in amongst it all. of 2003. Great memories of Wagga Visual Advisor 3 years. Interested in Wagga Teachers’ College. assisting C.S.U. Teacher Education GWENDA STARLING (ZAPPERT) Program in any possible way, e.g. Thank you Mrs Whittaker — the best ROBERT ARMYTAGE Student mentoring, Group discussion, Infants’ lecturer ever. Her wisdom I married June Alden (1963-64) in Concept development. helped me “survive” my headmistress 1968. and teach the “WHITTAKER WAY”. My first appointment was Corowa PS 1960 - 1961 I live in Sydney and am “long” retired but I was transferred 18 months later to from teaching. make place for a Canadian Exchange KAY KILLICK (HARRIS) teacher, ending up at Gundagai PS. I First appointed to Yoogali. Married 1961 - 1962 spent several years there and another 3 Brian Killick 1963, appointed to Book years on the Gundagai Relief staff Book. Had two daughters. Moved to JULIE HUGHES (GIBBES) (remember them?). Canberra and taught at Red Hill, Grffith Appointments : - 1963-65 Engadine A short while at a one teacher school at A.C.T., Scullin, Flynn and Higgins West infants’ - Tremendous start ! Tarrabandra (near Gundagai) was before retiring in 1994. Moved to Enjoyed every day. Moved by Dept followed by 5 years at Talbingo during Tomakin where we swim, fish, work for 1966 to Loftus - suddenly more difficult the SMA construction of the dam and church and charities, involved with Kinder. Applied for Moss Vale but power station. I have many memorable U3A, lots of travelling O.S. and around given 1967-68 Tarago - Composite K -3 recollections of my time as Electoral Australia with caravan. - challenging. Resigned, married Rev. Returning Officer with many non C. Hughes. 1969-71 Voluntary Chil- English speaking immigrants who ROSS HOSKING dren’s work Mission Station Arnhem wanted to vote! (but had, in many cases, One of the immortal thirteen kicked out Land. 1974-82 occasional relief teach- only been in Australia for a few by Maurie Hale. Despite his ing International Mission School Inland months). (wowserish) endeavour to discredit us, I IRIAN JAYA. 1983 N.S.W. Scripture Since 1974 I have taught at Edward PS managed to have a fairly successful and Teaching. 2000-2003. Casual Teaching in Deniliquin. satisfying career. Captains Flat (62), Karuah Public School and Medowie I have been involved in the writing of Monaro High Cooma (62-63), Christian School. Presently retired to Basic Skills Numeracy Testing Program Queanbeyan (63-84, being Head teacher Karuah in 1994. questions for over nine years, which is English from 1974), Batemans Bay (88- an activity I have enjoyed doing and 98 as Head Teacher Eng/His.), then 1963 - 1964 have had great satisfaction being retired. Exchange teaching at Bramtford involved in the program. Ontario (79). Married Joan ROBYN WHEELER (WHITLEY) June taught at Balranald and has also Crackanthorp from my session at Public Schools from K - 6 including worked in Deniliquin. WWTC, and are still married with three Spec . Ed. O.C. Class 91-2001, 2 years She currently teaches at the Conargo kids. We live at Broulee by the sea – in Canada teaching. Retired. Re- Public School. (Yes, the Ute sticker Canberra’s playground. employed in private system. capital of the world). We have two daughters and a son. We JOAN CRAKANTHORP (now SUE KING (UPTON) have as well a beautiful grandson. HOSKING) Taught for five years, married and went First appointment Captains Flat Infants into Printing Business in 1971 - still 1966 - 67 1962, Moss Vale ‘63, Picton ‘64 going! Board of Canberra Racing Club. Married Ross Hosking ‘65 Queanbeyan. President of Women in Racing. PETER POLLOCK Three lovely children. Teacher/Librarian Absolutely loving it all ! Teaching career - 10 disastrous weeks in ‘78, Canada ‘79, Qbn Isabella Street 1969 - 26 years in Commonwealth Library ‘80 – ‘88. Sunshine Bay Infants LENORE GRUNSELL Student Assistance (TEAS, Austudy etc) ‘ 89-‘95.Retired. Took up golf. Devoted Retired in 2000, and lasted six weeks, I - voluntary redundancy in 1996, grandmother of three. missed my work school counselling and followed by third (current) career as a I’m now re-employed full time courier — in awe of anyone who saw BETH McNEIL (HUDSON) permanent ! out life as a teacher. Taught in Pambula, Bega, Gladesville, London (U.K), Princeton and Hope ***************
Page 9 TEACHING MEMORIES John Woodger (1950-51) has (Tullibigeal) in winter and tennis Having been summoned to the front of contributed some recollections of the (Tullibigeal) and cricket (Bygalorie) the class and admonished, the ‘so what’ various schools in which he taught. Sunday in summer. Balls were held on response was evident. What to do? Thursday night so as not to interfere Inspiration – tacked onto the back of the 1952 Curriba (via Tullibigeal) with the weekend sport. residence was a laundry and above the Having spent one week with Charlie Married in August 1953 to Anne Austin fuel copper I had noticed 5 or 6 canes. Thomas in mid to late January and not (WTC) and staff from Tullibigeal So the order “Go over to the house and having received any appointment at that Central often visited our little cottage ask Mrs Woodger for the canes above point, I reckoned my first job would be for tea and games of penny poker. the copper.” They did! And returned west of the line. I returned to Central Fond memories of Mal Hanratty with the bundle. By this time everyone from the Moss Vale area and rang home crouched over a saucer of milk and is sitting up and paying total attention. I from the station. Dad informed me that playing his beloved recorder trying to warned these two malefactors that as there was a telegram, which he had entice a tiger snake from under the they’d broken the rules (?) they would opened and read – “Appointed teacher house. I don’t think we’d thought of have to be punished. At Curriba I hadn’t in charge Provisional School Curriba step two. The snake had headed towards ever had to raise my voice so here I was via Tullibigeal”. I wandered across to the house after Anne had tried to shoot in new territory, - caning. The ‘so what’ the huge state map with all rail lines and it. It must have been a sight with a babe response was still evident so in front of stations in Country NSW (sadly no in one arm and firing a .22 single- the whole class (whole school) I said, longer in existence) and endeavoured to handed while the dog tried to interfere- “Put out your hand.” track down Tullibigeal. No luck! I tried made me jump the fences fast as the Have you ever seen a large fourteen an Assistant Station Master but had no shots rang out. Tully staff turned up for year old’s hand after six weeks of burr luck there either. However he pointed tea and Mal had the answer. cutting? Solid leather couldn’t match it me further up the line and I found that I and the laconic ‘so what’ prevailed. would have to leave Sydney on the 1955 Bunnan (west of Scone) However I’d spent two years at one of Temora mail on Thursday night 8pm Having left Curriba Provisional School the private schools’ finest and suffered and arrive at Tullibigeal on Friday with ten to fourteen kids we arrived at the indignity of four across the backside evening around sunset to allow me to Bunnan to find a residence which had by the house captain. So once again start work on the Tuesday. been described to me by the occupant inspiration. “Turn around! Bend over!” Got organised and sent the necessary who was retiring as being “Quite good.” Hell, he did. I raised the cane and gave telegram to Mr Bill Worland, the P&C He even wanted to sell me the peach him a two iron across the backside. The President advising him of my impending tree and lean-to garage. I found it to be cane, having been above the copper for arrival and set forth on Thursday’s in shocking condition. It had been an years had ossified and when contact Temora mail. After Temora the train original schoolroom and residence in was made it exploded. Deathly quiet. split up and by the time I arrived at one. Built from sandstone blocks it was He turned grey/white (I think I did too). Tullibigeal it consisted of a steam now sinking into Wy Bong Creek Flats Motioned his brother for the same engine, goods wagon and a dog box/ and the timber was totally white ant treatment, same result. Not a sound guards van. eaten. The new school was of mid from the school for the rest of the day. Arrived at Tulli about sunset. The sign forties vintage and big enough to School dismissed, and lessons organised appeared longer than the siding. As the accommodate the forty plus kids from K for the next day. train steamed off to its final destination – to age 15 or so. After Curriba it was I went home for tea and there was a of Lake Cargelligo, the only person on quite a challenge. knock on the front door. “Are you the the siding glanced at me then looked off Two of the older pupil’s 13 plus and 14 teacher?” I said, “Yes.” He said, “You after the departing train. I walked across plus years were lads whose father had caned my kids today?” (good-bye to him and asked in a hesitating fashion, moved to Bunnan and worked on one of career.) “Yes.” He said, “Well done “Mr Worland?” Response, “Yes.” “I’m the cattle stations in the area. The mate. They thought they’d been shot. John Woodger.” Pause, and an up and village of Bunnan housed most of the You learnt ’em!” down glance, then, “They’re sending us workers on these stations. These lads Didn’t have to raise my voice in Bunnan kids now.” had come from the inner city and had for the remainder of the year. Welcome to teaching and more spent most of their holidays burr particularly to three great years at cutting. So they were young, strong and 1956 Carlingford Curriba Provisional School whose not really motivated for the type of Transferred to Carlingford Central in enrolment varied from 10 to 14 over pamphlet education that was available 1956 (Hard to believe a Central school three years. I’m pretty certain that in small schools for older pupils who in the heart of Sydney. Big too, — A B parents made sure their kids were could not get to high schools. The C D E F classes K-6 and large literate prior to enrolment. young blokes were enjoying themselves secondary). A real shock after four What a life – good kids at the school up the back of the room (probably doing years in a one-teacher school. and plenty of sport. A teacher’s life something drastic like playing noughts I was assigned to 5A (35 kids with an could be pretty tough if you didn’t play and crosses) and distracting the other IQ of 130 plus and buzzing). This boss sport in the west. Rules on Saturday pupils, so stern measures were called (Mr Waters) knows a good teacher (Four Corners), league on Sunday for. when he sees one! What a ball. Two or Page 10 TEACHING MEMORIES three days before Easter, a knock on the built. and 30 + in secondary (year 7 the new classroom door. Mr Waters with a tall I was regarded as a bread and butter Wyndham Scheme and 2nd and 3rd year bloke. “Mr Woodger. This is Mr Ridley. man in the Dem. Lesson area; you did Intermediate Certificate.) Thank He’s been appointed as Assistant know, reading, maths, spelling, P.E. and goodness for small schools background Principal after Easter. He will be was only occasionally let loose on the and knowing how to keep seven balls in teaching 5A and Mr X from 5F will be esoteric subjects. I remember one social the air at one time. transferred. You will be taking over 5F.” studies (history?) lesson – the First A few days after arriving on the Island I said, “No way!” (or equivalent). Fleet, England and Terra Australis. A we were invited to ‘drinks’ at the So after Easter on 5F, mainly boys from thirty minute lesson and after 25 Government House with Mr Kay Church of England Boys Home who minutes just docking in South Africa (administrator) and Mrs Kay and guests needed ++ care. To add insult to injury I and after 28 minutes landing in Botany who flew in on the Saturday plane. I had to take 5A and 5F boys for craft Bay – it still holds the record for the was asked by Mr Kay “What’s new on (50+ students). 5F slaughtered me – quickest Indian Ocean crossing – the the political front?” wrong I let them down. The upshot was, student teachers were quite astonished. I replied, “There’s a new bloke that in November an Inspector turned up looks good. He’ll be PM one day” (out of the blue) summoned by my boss However the top of the crop involved “Who?” to inspect my efficiency. Toughest music. The new music syllabus was “Gough Whitlam”. inspection I ever had. being introduced, and to demonstrate This was followed by a dead silence — The result was I was asked if I would that anyone (any clown) could teach it it was 1962 after all. like a transfer out of the school. I here was I. This was the era of music What a great school with good kids and replied, “Yes please.” appreciation and themes and to staff. By the end of 1962 we had demonstrate how simple this was, give implemented the Wyndham system in all 1957-61 Glebe/Haberfield it to someone who had no musical its glory. This to such an extent I was appointed to Glebe Boys and after ability and let him/her demonstrate the pleasantly surprised Dr Wyndham when a settling in period things sorted magnificence of the new syllabus. he arrived on Norfolk Island in August themselves out and a few good years Knowing bugger-all about music and 1963 for the school triennial Inspection. followed. One morning in the late 50’s I the syllabus I naturally turned to the I picked him up from the airport and was summoned to the Boss’ office and music experts on the staff (young Phil Saturday afternoon having rushed and told to “hop on the tram and go to Bridges and John Peart) for assistance. lost the semi final of the B Grade club Haberfield Dem for the day. I’ve We sorted out the theme of the music championship as the plane came in to organised with Mr Holt (Headmaster) for the dem, set it down to play on the land, introduced him to the Golf Club for you to look at their reading scheme chime bars and organised record etc. for members (Norfolk Islanders were and bring ideas back to us.” the dem. The dem went like a charm – natural sports men and women – most I said, “I’ll just slip across to my room played the piece (from memory – the of their handicaps were in single and get my smokes first.” Hall of the Mountain King), isolated the figures). Boss, “There’s a tram coming up the hill theme, played it on the chime bars, He was welcomed to the school on now. Forget your smokes and get on that taught it to the class, and culminated in Monday morning and I offered him the tram.” the playing of the piece with the pupils only decent chair in the office to be I spent the day at Haberfield and wasn’t indicating every time they heard the told, “Mr Woodger, that’s your chair, I too impressed by their schemes. theme (they did this often and well). am your guest in this school — all my “No better than ours”, I told the Boss The student teachers left quietly and inspectors are guests in the schools. So the next day, implying that Dem obviously bemused. The lecturer waited tell me what you want me to do and teachers were a bit “up” themselves. and said quietly before leaving “Who show me how my schemes are going In the first week of the following year I helped you?” here.” (Radical eh!!!) was appointed to Haberfield Dem. This Down the hall were Bridges and Peart We spent five days with D.G. as was handy as we were living at doubled up laughing – It was the wrong Inspector — nature’s gentleman. His Haberfield. I arrived at the school and theme! approach influenced me for years was allocated a 3rd class and settled in. afterwards, and caused some problems When morning tea came I headed for 1962-4 Norfolk Island here and there. the staff room and lit up a smoke. I What a sublime appointment. Got lucky In the 2nd week Dr Wyndham declared couldn’t figure out the strange looks the as Education II in 1961 included a large himself on holiday. I lent him my car staff gave me. Suddenly “Who’s segment on the Wyndham Scheme to be (Morris Minor) which he drove to areas smoking?” from Bullet Holt in the door introduced in 1962. Anne and I and of the island I wasn’t game to drive to way. “I am”, I answered. “You didn’t Stephen, Graeme, Kim and Deborah and took phenomenal photographs – his smoke when you were here last year!”, flew in, in January 1962 and were hobby. he said angrily. In those stricter days settled in the rambling ‘masters’ I made a mistake and left after 3 years, Bullet Holt wouldn’t have teachers with residence adjacent to the school. – not really, it was a three year posting. two “faults” and smoking was one of Norfolk at that stage was a five teacher, What a pity! them. On such small things careers were 3rd class Central School. 150 + kids John Woodger 1950-51
Page 11 TEACHING MEMORIES DOWN MEMORY LANE “Ah, it’s all right, schoolie, you can Coming to Queensland keep the winders”. I was appointed to Caricolla Provisional School in June, 1949. One night the bus pulled up, “Hey Another chilly morning in Bowral! schoolie, I have a present for you”, and Dragging on a pure woollen coat over The Maitland floods were at their there it was, a battery operated wireless. my mismatched skirt and blouse I height, so no trains (steam) could get The next day it took two boys ALL day prepared to enter the cold formality of through. At last the flood subsided and to find a suitable sapling for the aerial the Inspector’s office. But within there was standing room only to Taree. pole, and the following day we listened seconds he exclaimed, “Wagga Teachers A fettler walked in front of the train at to Kindergarten of the Air, Sing Along College! I remember you!” And with a Maitland, swinging his lantern to and with Terrence Hunt, Current Affairs broad smile he welcomed me back to fro, indicating that the train could with H.D.Black, and the dramatised teaching. Our time at College coincided. proceed at his pace. stories. That present from the A few weeks later, in Brisbane, imagine Department was a boon. In our Small Schools’ Option, Arthur my shock when I was told that I was Ashworth left us with three points of Polling Day arrived. There I sat from 8 unqualified! For Queensland that is! wisdom: enjoy your time as Principal, it a.m. to 8 p.m. on my own and still too I had rung the Queensland Teachers will probably be the only time you will young to vote. Gradually the voters Union from our home in NSW to see if be one; don’t learn to milk cows; and, in arrived and I was shocked to discover they were employing casual or supply your first assembly, blow your whistle that one of the men could not read. In teachers, and they said “Yes!” To make as loud as you can. Well I did that – and my innocence I assumed everyone could sure, I rang a second time. the eight children (and the surrounding read, and, here was a man who could Later at the orientation meeting for farmers) were very impressed. not even write his name! Then a voter upgrading, there were hundreds of us! sauntered in from the timber mill. He About two weeks later three horsemen We had to summarise the Syllabus in had walked three miles to cast his vote. pulled up at the school: “Hey schoolie, every subject from first to seventh come out, I want you to meet someone. “Gooday schoolie, I’ve come to vote for grades and to practise at two schools. This is Gordon Kirkpatrick. You might the boys”. After much door-knocking I was know him as Slim Dusty”. “I’m sorry,” I stammered, “the boys will welcomed by a Catholic School. The Like all first year outs I boarded with have to vote for themselves”. first teacher said, “If they need teachers cow cockies. There was no electricity “No it’s all right schoolie, we all vote you’re in like a shot!” and just the one telephone line for the Labor”. As time went on, we were asked to entire district. The home was a slab hut, promise that we would complete a However, he trudged the three miles slab floor no lining, and my light was a Bachelor of Education. Even people back to the mill to fetch the boys, who Tilley lantern, which provided light for with recent degrees were not being duly arrived rum bottle in hand. the rats as they ran down the wall and employed so I stayed home and enjoyed across my books, (as I was reading!) “Learn us somethin’, schoolie” as they looking after the family. We survived banged the bottle on the desk, “learn us The school had been built by locals and more by God’s grace than by good somethin’!” consisted of one room, a small verandah management. In fact we thrived! and a tank. Then after intense one-to- Fortunately the boys tired of this Brisbane is a great place to follow the one teaching I registered my first chorus, and walked the three miles back Arts! These days I’m lost in the success. The little boy ran home as fast to the mill, (having cast their vote after wonders of Watercolour painting. Even as his legs would carry him, “Mum, a fashion) sold a few in Art Shows! Mum, listen to this, I can spell, Dad, D- I have two married daughters with There was a Cleaning Allowance of ten U-D, Dad” families of their own, and our youngest shillings a week, which I spent on daughter is working and studying. None Shortly after this success Horace Rose books so we could have a tiny library. of our children wanted to become a appeared on the school steps. Horace On the last day of term we had a picnic, teacher. Do you blame them? I was did not have a tooth in his head, had with games, races and a concert. never visited a dentist, wore no shoes, allowed into schools with the Religious It was at Caricolla Provisional School and puffed on his blackened pipe. Instruction programmes, and was where I learned my trade as a teacher, welcomed as a tutor in English at a “Hey Schoolie, I’ve come for me and, in 1987, I retired as Principal of High School. No pay, of course! winders!” Blayney High School. A big cheerio to those who remember “I beg your pardon?” Kevin Quinn 1947-49 me! Six of us in one room! (Kumbu, I “I’ve come for me winders. I donated think.) No arguments either. them winders, me kids have finished EDITORS’ NOTE : Those were the days!! school, so, I’ve come for me winders!” Caricolla is on the Nulla Nulla Creek Rosemary Johnson “Roy”, I called to the biggest boy, “if 46 miles from Kempsey up the Macleay (nee Errington) Mr Rose sets foot on the verandah, run River. What memories this conjures for 1954-55. home and ring the police”. those of us who were small schoolies ! Page 12 IN MEMORIAM discussion and encourage thoughtful her Master of Education and then her analysis of the topic being studied. She Doctor of Philosophy from the was a superior academic with her feet University of Illinois. She was a great on the ground! It was evident why her traveler, touring the length and breadth seminar courses were so popular! of South America, Africa and the Polar I was delighted that she agreed to act as Regions north and south. She had a the supervisor of my Honours thesis. pilot’s license before she held a driver’s She guided the process without license. She flew with Dick Smith over imposing her thoughts and certainly the North Pole. Joyce contracted provided every opportunity for the malaria during her travels and her student to meet her high expectations. doctor, lecturing to his medical students, REMEMBERING STAFF OF Her sabbatical leave interrupted this informed them (in French) that she WAGGA WAGGA TEACHERS supervision so that she needed to would never walk or talk again. He was COLLEGE arrange for another to deal with the unaware that she understood French and final stages. she was determined to prove him I have been most grateful for having wrong, which she did by forcing herself Dr Joyce Fyfe Wylie OBE had the opportunity to work with such a to converse with visiting sparrows on highly regarded educator. her window sill. She was indeed a most Joyce Wylie joined the staff of WWTC After her retirement from Sydney remarkable person. when it opened in 1947 and, as a University Joyce gave her time and Vale, Doctor Joyce Fyfe Wiley, OBE. residential member of staff, had the energy to other aspects of tertiary Lew Morrell. responsibility of administering the education, in particular to the Patricia Mary Lahy AM was women students’ residential section of development of Milperra College of appointed to the staff in 1951/2 to the college in addition to her role as a Advanced Education, when she became lecture in Physical Education. She lived lecturer in Education. She moved from the Chairman of the inaugural Council in residence during her time at WWTC. Wagga at the end of 1949 to continue of the College. Her expertise in She transferred to Balmain Teachers working in Teachers’ Colleges in the leadership and administration has been College in Sydney and undertook part- metropolitan area — Balmain and recognized by those who worked with time evening studies to graduate with a Sydney. I had the pleasure of meeting her to develop and direct a new Bachelor of Arts- Psychology Honours her before she left Wagga at the independent tertiary college which later at Sydney University. She was beginning of 1950 when I arrived to became a part of the University of appointed to the University of Sydney take up a position at the College and to Western Sydney. She continued to foster as a senior Tutor in the Psychology become a part of the residential staff. her interest in travel and was always Department. Study leave in 1970 took When I moved to Sydney in 1955, ready to take part in challenging her to Queen’s University, Belfast Joyce’s name was often raised in discussions across a wide range of where she undertook studies and was conversation by members of the staff of topics even in the latter years when her granted a doctorate in 1975. She Sydney Teachers’ College. She had physical health had begun to returned to Sydney and was elected obviously made an impression there, deteriorate. Dean of the Faculty of Arts in 1979 although she was on leave prior to It was indeed a privilege to have known serving three terms in that position. She taking up an appointment in the Joyce Wylie. Her death on June 6th was appointed executive assistant to the University of Sydney, Faculty of 2004 was sudden and closed a chapter Vice-Chancellor in 1986 and a year later Education in 1956. Her contributions to in the life of a memorable educator. was selected for the new position of pro education were wide ranging as Ruby Riach appointments took her to far off places vice-chancellor with responsibility for organizing the structure of Chifley such as Lagos, Nigeria and the To add to Ruby’s perceptive account I College later to become part of the Philippines. She was a much travelled would like to report some of the University of Western Sydney. Her person and could interest anyone who memories of her career mentioned by administrative ability was highly cared to listen, with vivid descriptions speakers at her funeral. Joyce Fyfe regarded by all those who had worked of the interesting places she had visited Wiley graduated from Sydney with her and her contributions to and the even more interesting people University with an Honours Bachelor of academic institutions had been many she had met. Arts degree. Her first appointment was and varied during her working life. The Later when I began studies towards a to Marrickville Boys High School. She universities of Sydney and Western Master of Education degree, I was was the only female teacher on the staff Sydney honoured her with an honorary pleased to be able to enrol in two of the of twenty five. One of the male staff Doctor of Letters and her services to Seminar courses which Joyce Wylie remarked on her appointment “At last higher education were acknowledged conducted in the Master’s programme. we’ve got somebody to make the tea”. when she was made a Member of the She was indeed a most stimulating Joyce did not make the tea! After eight Order of Australia. She died suddenly at lecturer, one who could always link years of teaching she was appointed the age of 75 following a few years of theory and practice, effectively direct Deputy Head of Newcastle Girls High failing health. School - a meteoric rise. She secured Page 13 CSU INFORMATION
Page 14 The Wagga Wagga Teachers’ College Alumni Association Scholarship Appeal
KEEPING THE SPIRIT ALIVE IN 2004 TO SECURE THE FUTURE
The WWTC Alumni committee is seeking your continuing support for the Scholarship Fund in 2004. Although we have reached our initial target of $25,000, we are keen to see this expand and allow us to either have an additional Scholarship or to make the present one more prestigious. It is an important project as it serves not only to assist students who may have affiliations with our members but also to perpetuate the spirit and comradeship which was established so long ago and still exists. The WWTC Alumni Association will have direct input as to how this Fund is managed and where the Fund will expend its monies. All information pertaining to activities of the Fund will be communicated to our membership through ‘TALKABOUT’. Your willingness and courage to ‘secure the future’ providing for the best possible education for members of the WWTC Alumni family is an outstanding goal. Scholarship Fund donations must go directly to the CSU Foundation at:- The Grange, Charles Sturt University, Panorama Avenue, Bathurst NSW 2795
As you know, we pay for the printing of TALKABOUT and even though the Alumni Office covers the cost of postage, the Association still incurs fairly large expenses. It has therefore been decided that an annual contribution of $10 per member is required and that this will fall due at the time of the March “Talkabout”.
Talkabout contributions should be sent directly to the Treasurer of the WWTC Alumni Association:- Lindsay Budd, 4 Flemington Close, Casula NSW 2170. If you require a receipt please enclose a stamped addressed envelope. The Alumni Office over the years has been a great supporter of the Association. Postage costs for Talkabout are approx. $1350 for each issue. To assist them to cut costs you can opt to receive your “Talkabout” by email. Simply tick the box on the bottom of your contribution form. The Alumni Office will appreciate your help very much. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Alumni Office on 02 6338 6016
I want to support the WWTCAA Scholarship Appeal Here is my annual contribution to the production of (All gifts over $2.00 are TAX DEDUCTABLE.) TALKABOUT.
My gift for 2004 is: $______My contribution for 2004 is: $ ______
Please find my cheque for $ ______Surname: ______Surname: ______Former Name: ______Former Name: ______Given Names: ______Given Names: ______Address: ______Address: ______Postcode: ______Postcode: ______Years at College: ______to ______Years at College: ______to ______Home Phone: ______Home Phone: ______Work Phone: ______Work Phone: ______Facsimile: ______Facsimile: ______E.mail: ______E-mail: ______I would prefer to receive my Talkabout by email
Page 15 If undeliverable please return to: The Alumni Office Charles Sturt University POSTAGE Bathurst NSW 2795 Australia PAID
AUSTRALIA
Place address sticker here.
Change of Format In order to reduce costs and simplify the mail out the format of Talkabout has been changed. The back page now has postage information and a space for the address label. The Scholarship form is inside the back page so that the contribution form can be cut out without losing any Talkabout content.
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