Ad Astra Issue No 139 | December 2020

2020 A year to remember

Changing of the Guard - Welcoming our new Chair of Council w

From the Editor Somehow, after many months spent socially distanced and communicating online, we still find ourselves shouting a combination of ‘Can you hear me??’ and ‘You are on mute!’ at our device screens. 2020 has been a remarkable year for all the wrong reasons. It certainly will be one we will never forget. But across the community we have relearnt how to learn with our adaptability, creativity, and resilience. In this edition, Dr Peter Miller talks about wonderful achievements across our school. Meanwhile, Dr Hugh Seward reflects on his 14 years as Chair of the College Council as he hands over to Professor Richard Page. As a community we are very grateful for Hugh’s enormous impact and strong leadership. As you read this edition, you will find a common theme running through – innovation – as our teachers, students and alumni community overcame the challenges of the year in many different ways. Arguably those most heavily impacted were our Year 12 students, whose final year has been extraordinary. It hasn’t been all bad – Their bonds of friendship and connection have strengthened as they supported each other admirably. We wish them well for their exam results and for the opportunities that lie ahead. Several Old Collegians prepared wonderful video messages of encouragement and advice for our Year 12s, which can be viewed below. As 2020 draws to a close we should all celebrate our courage and resilience over the festive season with friends and family. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in 2021, and hopefully in person and In this edition without COVID-19 restrictions! Merry Christmas! View the Old Collegians’ Mike Howell, message to Senior School the Year 12s. Director of 8 Year 12 in the middle of COVID-19 Community Relations cutt.ly/Year12 11 Creative disruption 14 Leading the pack

Editorial Team Design Emma Chandler Nicole Roache Emma Chandler Middle School Mike Howell Niki Nurnaitis Sam McIntosh 20 Putting a face to the writer Contributors 21 The importance of feedback Mellisa Barnes Lachlan Houen Georgina Rolls 22 Writing: A dance between theory and Nick Betts Sandy Hutton Leanne Russell Christie Barrett Kevin Jess Marita Seaton practice Georgie Cullen Thane Joske Caroline Stok Edwina Davis Peter Lawson Matthew Thacker Leanne Earl Rory McElligott Coral Turner Junior School Reilly Eddy Andrea McGucken Kelly Watson Emily FitzSimons Chelsea Matheson Emma Watters 24 The official opening of our Junior School Joan Gill Andrew Maureder Sondra Wood 26 House connections Jessica Henderson Photography Steve Wright Photography Dr Peter Miller

Cover image: Jessica Henderson Photography

2 Ad Astra Issue No 139 w

Our College Our Community 4 Changing of the guard A message from outgoing Chair of Council, 40 Foundation President’s Report Dr Hugh Seward AM. 41 Dr Bill Williams Tjungurrayi Scholarship 5 New chair of council 42 Remembering Rev. Sir Frank Rolland A message from incoming Chair of Council, Prof Richard Page. 44 OGCA President’s report 6 2020 – The year that was 52 Thought Leaders: Positive Action for Now A message from Principal, Dr Peter Miller. 54 Morongo Girls’ College - a place to call 18 Through the eyes of a teacher ‘home’ 28 Chaplain’s Corner 57 50 years of the Stuart Laidlaw Memorial Pool 58 Lab-grown ‘mini-kidneys’ with lifesaving 29 A year to remember – perspectives from potential boarding families 60 Smith of Dunesk Mission 32 School Activities 62 Our home-grown American football star 35 New deputy Principal 66 Farming in 2020 36 Staff departures 72 Year 12...Where to next? Como Park! 74 Farewells 76 Reunions Changing of the Guard

DR HUGH SEWARD AM (OGC 1966), CHAIR OF COUNCIL The entrance was not through a gate in the hedge but over a small stile like one you would find along an old English hedgerow. At the age of four, holding my mother’s hand tightly, wearing my school uniform and green cap for the first time, I stepped up the three steps and over that stile into a whole new world. The small junior campus for grades have been filled with excitement and With the help of the Foundation, twelve prep, one and two on Aphrasia Street many unexpected challenges. years ago, we purchased a beautiful was a cluster of three timber buildings, section of farmland along a stretch of The Council is responsible for and doors with lots of small window- the Barwon River at Fyansford. This will appointing the Principal of the school panes looking out onto a front yard of provide room for expanded sporting and during my time I have had the green grass. But the backyard was the facilities and school growth in the pleasure to work with three Principals, wonderland for play with a sand pit, an future. It will also provide a “land-bank” Dr Pauline Turner, Mr Andrew Barr old boat to clamber over and let the which I hope will assist the funding of and Dr Peter Miller. With every change pirate imagination run wild, and several long-term infrastructure improvements of Principal the school experiences peppercorn trees that always left brown especially at the Senior School. In 2014 a readjustment to changing times, climbing stains on your hands. we also purchased one hundred acres educational trends and parent adjacent to the Cape Otway lighthouse Then it was just called the Kindergarten, expectations essential for the school to facilitate our learning outdoors later the buildings were moved to the to grow. However, preserving the programs, which will continue to grow “New Prep” site in Aberdeen Street and essential character of the school and its and develop in the next few years. became Campbell House. It grew over values has been a focus of the Council time until the mix of timber buildings throughout this time. Nearly ten years ago we refurbished and converted portables could no the Middle School to facilitate growth The distress of some past students longer meet the school’s needs. and meet modern educational needs. who were victims of abuse during their Then five years ago we engaged Now, in 2020, we have completed a time at the school has finally been one of Australia’s finest architects magnificent new complex. It seems acknowledged over the last six years. and Old Collegian John Wardle and fitting that my final official act as the It was like an unrecognised wound that his architectural firm to create a new School Council chair, was to join with lay dormant for years and finally broke infrastructure Master Plan for the next my grand-daughter Winnie as she open. It has taken enormous effort 20 years. The new Campbell House- unveiled the plaque on behalf of the from many members of Council and Junior School was the first phase, Governor of Victoria to open the new our Principal Dr Miller to ensure that we now completed, and the Master Plan Junior School-Campbell House. care for our fellow Collegians who were has just been reviewed to provide an harmed, support them and attempt to inspirational guide for the school into There is no hedge, no stile to climb, but heal, but also ensure this can never the distant future. the wonderland for play and the spaces happen again. to learn are beyond the comprehension Through all this activity the essential of a small boy in 1957. It has been an During these challenges the Council has workings of the school has continued honour to be given the task of leading maintained our strong financial integrity, – a celebration of 150 years since the School Council. These last 14 years and provided for a sustainable future. our foundation in 2011, constitutional

4 Ad Astra Issue No 139 New chair of council

PROF RICHARD PAGE, INCOMING CHAIR OF COUNCIL Greek philosopher Heraclitus stated a long time ago ‘the world is flux only change is changeless’, this remains very relevant and could not be more true than in 2020.

This year has seen an As a past and current parent our unprecedented amount of household has also shared some of challenge and change for our these challenges, but the support community including teachers, provided by the school to continue staff and students at The Geelong an active learning environment has College. helped smooth out the bumps.

In the theme of change I would like There have been some unexpected to express my deep thanks and opportunities such as being able to participate in a Science prac pay tribute to Dr Hugh Seward for (who knew you could get DNA his stewardship over his extensive from a strawberry in the kitchen!) tenure on College Council, or knowing a little more about including fourteen years as Chair English or Textiles assignments. as he steps down and hands over independence from the Uniting Church Catching up on some long-lost developed, annual budgets were the reins. Math has been another unexpected scrutinised, governance processes During this time the school has skill regained during the lockdown updated and risk management matured. seen significant change and periods. Our community was engaged, student evolution. His wisdom, experience results were interrogated, and educational Although this has understandably plans were created and remodelled. and even hand have helped been very challenging for families, guide the school and his positive it has enabled us to focus on some Then finally, along comes the COVID-19 influence will be felt for many years of the simple pleasures of family pandemic to challenge all our processes to come. It will be a privilege to time and enjoy more conversations and educational structure, and that follow in his footsteps, large as they together. demonstrates the agility and ability of our are. wonderful teachers and support staff. As I write we are delighted to see Navigating the challenges this the return of students at all levels to So much has happened since I assumed year has required strong effective the school into a period of ‘COVID the role as chair of Council, but all this leadership which has been amply normal’. Just as hospitals are not has been the work of a great team of hospitals without patients, schools Council Members, over 25 different people provided by our Principal, Dr are not schools without students. during that time, educational experts, Peter Miller and his Executive. The The grounds, buildings, gardens, church ministers, farmers, accountants, flexibility and willingness to adapt labs and studios eagerly awaited lawyers, doctors, psychologists, leaders demonstrated by students, families the return of students, as did the of business, community and government and teachers has been exemplary staff. To hear the echo of busy departments. The breadth of expertise, to ensure 2020 has not been lost classrooms and playgrounds is and the collaboration and cooperation in the wilderness. Strong character what our College has been waiting amongst this group of extraordinary is the foundation for resilience, for. people dedicated to the school has been and this has been required in large remarkable. To each and everyone of them quantities this year. Finally, I would like to acknowledge I am most grateful. all families for the part they Although there have been many have played in maintaining the I wish my successor Professor events not able to be celebrated engagement and learning of their Richard Page, the members of as part of the school calendar this children whilst in person learning Council and Principal Dr Peter year, the skills required through the was not possible, and wish Miller every success in the future necessity of adaptation will provide everyone well for the remainder and I retire with confidence that a strong foundation for future of the year as we look forward to challenges for all of us. summer. the school is in great hands.

Ad Astra Issue No 139 5 2020 – The year that was

DR PETER MILLER, PRINCIPAL

As an alternative approach to a review of 2020, I would like us to reflect more on the achievements than the challenges we have faced over the last 9 months. This is not to be dismissive of the difficulties but to pay tribute to the outstanding commitment of our staff, the patience of our parents and the quiet determination of our students. It has not been the year we had anticipated for anyone.

The Remote Learning approach was The first area to celebrate this year approach to Remote Learning and outlined in detail in the earlier edition of is, in fact, our exceptional staff. The little of the excitement we may have Ad Astra. This was published ahead of experience of the earlier period of felt when first entering into Remote the second COVID-19 wave resulting in Remote Learning significantly informed Learning in March. Our teaching staff, the protracted disruption to school from our teachers in our second run at it students, parents and support staff 5 August to 6 October for students in (let me call it Remote Learning 2.0). worked extraordinarily well to ensure Foundation to Year 6 and Monday 12 However, the Remote Learning 2.0 the commitment to maintain the best October for students in Years 7 to 12. brought with it a more pragmatic

6 Ad Astra Issue No 139 2020 – The year that was

possible experience for our students in I would also like to acknowledge on teaching and learning spaces has Remote Learning 2.0. the significant achievements in been maintained this year as we look to relation to our facilities this year. The The demand on teachers with a new the future. redeveloped Junior School is one of tool kit for their practice required the most exciting educational facilities I would like to acknowledge some key significant on the job skill development in Australia. There is nothing like it in people in this organisation. Elsewhere and refinement. The approach has seen any other school in the nation. This is in this edition of Ad Astra you can read students and teachers learning together, a purpose built, contemporary facility about the retirement from the position of how to use the tools effectively. This has which links to the historic Campbell Deputy Principal of my most loyal and significantly challenged the traditional House buildings in a very gentle way. dedicated colleague Mr Roger Smith. model of teachers as experts on Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach His service to the College and its people everything from content to the tools of to the education of young children is second to none. At the same time, we transmission. the spaces within the buildings are welcome Mr Simon Young to the role magnificent in their ability to facilitate In many ways this complements from the beginning of 2021. Mr Young the changes to teaching practice. learning and create an extraordinary physical environment for our students has established himself with distinction Over the last 20 years we have seen and their teachers. I encourage you over the last three years as Head of teachers relinquish absolute authority to visit the Junior School at your first Senior School and we all look forward to for, and complete control over, the opportunity. his involvement across all three schools content learned by students under as Deputy Principal. their supervision. This is because the The redeveloped Junior School curriculum for many year levels is less buildings tell the stories of its Finally, I would like to acknowledge the prescriptive in its content, we have occupants. In turn, it will play an change in the Chair of Council in the last new tools to assist learning as well important role in shaping the stories of quarter of this year. Dr Hugh Seward’s the occupants for many years to come as societal changes. The sense of a 14-year term as Chair has seen the by setting a foundation for an ongoing teacher as a facilitator, with intentions College through extraordinary times. love of learning, desire for inquiry, for student outcomes rather than limited His passion for and commitment to the and prescriptive content has been a functional community interactions and success of College is much admired. significant development in teaching success for the students inhabiting the It is also something I greatly respect. It practice. spaces. is important for the College community The Middle School continues to Remote Learning 2.0 reinforced to be reminded that members of experience growth and in the 50th year the development of contemporary The Geelong College Council are all of the Laidlaw swimming pool is now pedagogy where teachers are less of overlooked by additional classrooms. volunteers. In addition to their roles as the expert than ever before as they These classrooms are magnificent in governors (board directors) they are all operate in a virtual classroom rather their location and functionality which concerned for and committed to ensure than the traditional physical space. will assist the opportunities for students the success of the students. They However, the expertise of good teachers in the important “Middle Years” of commit many hours of their personal is evident in their ability to engage schooling as they consolidate their time to this end. I warmly welcome and motivate their students. It is fair to positive approach to learning. At the Professor Richard Page to the role of say that although this is also a strong Senior School we have continued to Chair of Council and I look forward feature of 21st century teacher practice work on the restoration and upgrade of to working with him and the rest of it is a long-held characteristic of good the oldest classrooms at College. Many Council as we continue to advance our teaching. Therefore, in some ways so of the classrooms around the Cloisters wonderful College. much has changed while the essence have been completely refurbished of good teaching has remained exactly to create historically elegant spaces It has been a remarkable year of the same – it’s the human component. with modern amenities. They are now achievements that confirm the The excellent work of our staff in all their comfortable and practical spaces that importance of the people, place and roles has greatly assisted in the success the students love to attend. Next year community of The Geelong College. of our students and their achievements will see the continuation of the upgrade this year. in the downstairs classrooms. The focus

Ad Astra Issue No 139 7 Year 12 in the middle of COVID-19

GEORGIE CULLEN & MATTHEW THACKER, THE GEELONG COLLEGE CO-CAPTAINS

Our school captains chat to fellow Year 12 students about the ups and downs of completing their final year of school in the year of COVID-19.

myself procrastinating too much. Doing What has been your outlet, or thing Elli White this wasn’t efficient or helpful, so I that’s kept you going? What has been the biggest challenge formed a system where I made sure to Going outside to eat or chill out for a for you this year? wake up with a plan for the day. I try few minutes has really helped me stay Personally, my biggest challenge to do the more tedious tasks first, like grounded and clear headed, especially has been staying motivated in all my studying, and then move on to the more if my dog or my sister is around. Having subjects. I found it was very easy to fall enjoyable activities such as going for those deep and meaningful chats is the behind and neglect some subjects. a walk or grabbing a coffee with some best outlet when struggling with school How have you found the workload of friends. Knowing where your priorities or other stresses. Year 12? are is a big help, especially when visualising your main goals for the year. At some points of the year I felt suffocated by all the work and found

8 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Image: Andrew Maureder Photography

If you could give your Year 11 self a teacher to ensure I was not distracted schedule, I would always set a period at who is about to start Year 12 one by my phone and being distracted by night time to dedicate to study which I piece of advice, what would it be? my dog. I felt as though I improved in felt was beneficial in preventing me from Don’t stress yourself over the little blocking out these distractions as we falling behind in work or even just sitting things! Always know that there’s a plan got further into online learning. I left my at my desk and procrastinating about B, C and D if everything else falls apart. phone outside my room, and shut the the work I needed to complete. dog out of my room. What has been the biggest thing If you could give your Year 11 self who COVID-19 has taught you about What has been your outlet, or thing is about to start Year 12 one piece of yourself? that’s kept you going? advice, what would it be? COVID-19 has taught me to be patient At the start of the year I always looked I would just make sure that you can and adaptive. With all the unexpected forward to footy pre-season, this would leave College knowing that you have changes throughout the year, I needed always get me through the final few made the most of your time here, to be calm and collected during all the periods of the day. Lunch and recess whether its studying hard, excelling in unknowns. were also something I looked forward to sport or even just having a conversation when it got half way through second or with someone that you rarely talk to. I What do you hope next year brings? fourth period and things were starting think if you can leave College being able I hope next year brings more to feel dull. No matter if it was playing to honestly tell yourself that you made celebrations with friends and family, chasey around the school or listening the most of your time then you will be being locked away for most of the year to Paddy Sinnott’s hilarious stories it satisfied. was stifling and frustrating at times. was always an exciting thought that What has been the biggest thing Fingers crossed next year will be would get me through the end of these COVID-19 has taught you about normal, or COVID normal. periods. yourself? How have you found the workload of COVID made me realise that anything Charlie Pleming Year 12? can happen, if someone was to tell me What has been the biggest challenge At the beginning of the year I found it when I was in Year 11 that we would be for you this year? difficult to balance the work load with completing Year 12 through a worldwide Adjusting to a range of distractions external factors, such as sports training pandemic I would have laughed. I think during remote learning - eg - Not having and other social commitments. I found one of the biggest lessons COVID it really beneficial to stick to a study taught me was that even in the worst

Ad Astra Issue No 139 9 Image: Andrew Maureder Photography

situations you are still able to pull out Obviously, this year has encapsulated a aspects of positivity, although we haven’t Sam Rowbottom lot of change, most of it unforeseen, so been able to spend as much time What has been the biggest challenge if I was to only take one thing away from together as we would have liked, I know for you this year? the experience, I would definitely have to that myself and so many others have still The interchanging between home say the importance of versatility. been able to obtain countless positive learning and on campus learning was What do you hope next year brings? memories from this time. definitely a big challenge this year. I am hoping that next year the world will With real life social interactions more What do you hope next year brings? reach some form of normality again. restricted than ever before, home I hope next year and into the future I’m Although I don’t think society will ever learning was a very unchartered able to maintain and strengthen the be the same, in some ways I believe experience. We were very lucky to have close bonds that I have been able to this has the opportunity to be a real such an in-depth and sophisticated achieve throughout my time at College. positive. Next year, I am hoping to study system in place, it certainly made Year commerce at university and am looking 12 much smoother than what it could forward to exploring some new hobbies. Tom Roberts have been. Without a doubt the year has What has been the biggest challenge gone very differently to what many of us for you this year? expected. COVID-19 (obviously) and the What has been your outlet, or thing remote learning throughout the year. that’s kept you going? Regardless, I believe The Geelong Given my competitive nature, I’ve always College staff and teachers managed the wanted to perform at the highest level I home learning very well! can. Regardless of a pandemic, making What has been your outlet, or thing the most of my opportunity here at that’s kept you going? College has always been a priority, so Footy – and especially the ‘Tiges’ working hard to achieve my best results Simon is pictured above with School Co-Captain, Georgie Cullen. winning the granny! has been enough motivation for me to keep going. How have you found the workload of 125 special deliveries Year 12? How have you found the workload of Year 12? This year, there wasn’t much else to do The Year 12 jumper is a valued but study. I definitely improved my study Unfortunately, with the pandemic, a lot of memento of our students’ final skills compared to other years. my extra-curricular activities were either year. With COVID-19 restrictions postponed or cancelled for the year. What do you hope next year brings? necessitating Remote Learning, With the additional workload of Year 12, students were unable to collect Hopefully no face mask wearing and a the lack of other commitments helped their jumpers at school. Richmond three-peat! me find more time for my schoolwork. Our Head of Senior School, and If you could give your Year 11 self If you could give your Year 11 self who is about to start Year 12 one who is about to start Year 12 one soon to be Deputy Principal, piece of advice, what would it be? piece of advice, what would it be? Simon Young travelled more Don’t forget to chill out right up until the than 200 kilometres in a single The year will present a lot of challenges, end of the holidays – next year is going regardless of a pandemic, so make sure day to deliver jumpers and care to be full on. you are organised and find ways to keep packages to 125 of our Year 12 What has been the biggest thing motivated. students around Geelong and COVID-19 has taught you about What has been the biggest thing surrounds. yourself? COVID-19 has taught you about Simon was interviewed Pretty proud of myself for not giving up – yourself? on ABC radio, listen at: found I can be quite resilient when faced I think COVID-19 has shown me how cutt.ly/Y12jumpers with adversity. important flexibility and balance is in life.

10 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Student artworks, clockwise from top left: Ethan Tran, Lila McRae-Palmer, Louisa Bath and Catie Hodge. Creative disruption

BY KEVIN JESS, HEAD OF DESIGN AND CREATIVE ARTS Finding ways to complete Year 12 Art and Design subjects during remote learning required creative thinking and flexibility.

Creative disruption is a term often moments. However, for our Year 12 the effort as they get scaled down’. used in business, economics or Design and Creative Arts students, However, in a year like 2020 what has marketing. ‘Disruption’ often occurs this disruption has become a new become increasingly more visible are through a new threat or competitor challenge and an opportunity to the real reasons why we encourage appearing within a given sector; exercise their creative resolve, the study of art and design-based ‘creative’ solutions are then needed resourcefulness and self-driven subjects. It is the creativity and to adjust, reinvent or combat the problem-solving capabilities. These problem-solving skills that are threat. are all transferrable skills, essential gained in such subjects that enable to thrive in today’s world and keenly a student to develop as a resilient As we all know too well, 2020 has sort after by employers and tertiary learner. indeed been a disrupted year. institutions alike. Perhaps for some more than others? As articulated by Lila McRae-Palmer, I speak particularly of our Year 12 ‘Folio subjects’ are often Year 12 (VCE Art) “If anything, 2020’s cohort; this disruption has blanketed misrepresented as ‘too hard’, ‘too rollercoaster of a year has taught a year of so many significant much work’ or worse still ‘not worth me that creation is not linear – it

Ad Astra Issue No 139 11 Baxter Kay designed film poster for ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ which formed part of his ‘CINOFLIX’ project. The images above show the design process from concept development through to completion.

is not a direct process of idea to final resources and the Austin Gray Art and Baxter Kay demonstrated this in his work, it is an up and down journey, full Design facility has meant that every Visual Communication Design project of mistakes and failures and changes student had to adjust, reconfigure, or for ‘CINOFLIX’ – a movie streaming of direction. COVID-19 has further even reconsider and redevelop their channel bringing old classic movies to prompted us as art students to accept directions. a younger demographic. His original setbacks, and to keep on trying, as intention was to use paper collage, a Throughout the Remote Learning nothing is guaranteed. It’s challenged powerful technique from the 1950’s, to experience, students were supported us even further to think outside the box, create designs for his movie graphics. by their teachers via online classrooms. when the artistic resources were so With the restrictions of remote learning, limited throughout the year, which has They were able to share and showcase Baxter was unable to access the range encouraged our creativity to blossom in their work. Private channels in MS of papers and materials from the design abundance.” Teams became a dossier of progressive images of student work, recorded room that he had intended to use. In Throughout this year of disrupted discussions with their teacher and response, Baxter adjusted his thinking. learning programs with extended conversations of detailed feedback. He re-imagined his concept into an periods of remote learning, our Year 12 exquisite, energetic digital collage, Design and Creative Arts students have Teachers converted their kitchen tables appropriating images from the original used their creativity to adjust. No longer to mini studios, using cameras to movies and manipulating them into would they have the open access to the demonstrate techniques and creating striking, contemporary posters. many wonderful facilities, resources, libraries of ‘how-to’ support videos. Fraser Yeaman had a similar experience materials and rich exemplars of previous Teachers used every tool available to when developing his project for Product students that the Austin Gray Centre ensure students’ experiences were as Design Technology. Being unable houses. close as possible to the face-to face access the College workshop during learning they were used to. Despite These students have used their Remote Learning meant he was unable this, student success was still heavily creativity to explore ‘ways forward’. To to make small prototypes for his Flight reliant on the ingenuity and self-directed re-imagine their showcase final folios to Simulator. Fraser used his creativity to capabilities of the student. something new. The disruption to their generate impressive 3D renderings and program, isolation from the school’s mechanical drawings using an industry

12 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Fraser Yeaman generated impressive 3D Renderings using industrial design software, Fusion 360, before completing his final project.

standard industrial design software, The adjustments made have, Fusion 360. understandably, reduced the volume of artworks or completed products required State-wide adjustments to all VCE of the students. Considering this, and subjects aimed to compensate for the challenges our students have worked disruptions and support students in such with, the range of creative works they an unusual year. It was still our student’s have presented this year is amazing. positivity and creativity that enabled them to so successfully complete their Our Design and Creative Arts students studies. have demonstrated a resilience and dedication to their learning that they As Olivia Allen, VCE Art (Year 11 should be most proud of. accelerator) explained, ‘2020 has made Virtual Art Exhibition me realise how much The teaching team at the 2020 has made me With COVID restrictions, and we take for granted Austin Gray Centre for the unpredictability around as a society and the realise how much Design and Creative Arts them, hampering our ability opportunities we waste. we take for granted congratulate all our final to hold our annual in-person Having spent most year students. Their ability as a society and the exhibition, we have developed of lockdown isolated to use their creativity to opportunities we waste a virtual exhibition in a bid on the farm, I’ve adapt to the challenges to reach out to our whole - Olivia Allen, VCE art student indulged myself in new presented and navigate community to showcase the experiences and really the disruption to produce amazing efforts of our students appreciated the opportunities that I’ve final outcomes of such standards is in 2020. been given. Coronavirus has made me highly commendable. We wish them You can take a more creative due to being at home, every success in the future as they move tour of the 2020 which has restricted the resources I out into the world beyond school. We VCE Design and could use throughout my artistic journey, know with the creativity and resilience Creative Arts which therefore gave me new ideas for they have demonstrated this year…they Virtual Exhibition at:cutt.ly/transit2020 my folio.’ are truly ready for anything!

Ad Astra Issue No 139 13 Leading the pack

NICOLE ROACHE, MARKETING MANAGER

Stephanie Williams left her home in Wagait Beach on the Cox Peninsula, just 8kms or a ferry trip from Darwin, aged 11. She left her mum and sister, for the opportunities an education down south presented. Little did she know that after three years at Worawa Aboriginal College in Healesville, that a Smith Family Scholarship would bring her to The Geelong College, and then to the Geelong Cats as the College’s first listed AFLW player.

Steph describes her childhood memories have the good father role model to teach and that there might be more of football as mixed. While she loved me about footy, so it felt male dominated opportunities for her football if she stayed kicking things, balls, plastic bottles, and negative to me.” in Victoria. basically anything she could find on the It all changed when her friend invited her “They told me I should probably try to do ground, she hated what football stood for a kick of the footy when she arrived the harder schoolwork in a mainstream for, in her mind. at Worawa, where they had a girls’ footy school. They also said because I was “I loved all sport, but we never really had team. good at footy, I should stay in Victoria. the time or money for all the sports that “My friend changed my whole view. “I put in heaps of different scholarship I wanted to play. My mum really didn’t When we were out kicking the footy, she want me to play footy because it’s so applications, in Adelaide, in Sydney, told me I was good at it and asked me physical, and it wasn’t for girls, so I only MLC, Pymble Ladies’ College and to be on the team, so I thought whatever really had the opportunity to play netball. Wesley, basically any school you could and I did.” I hated football; up north at the time think of. Some of them fell through and all I could relate footy with was a lot of From there Steph began to turn heads my mum wasn’t too fond of the purple alcohol and a lot of violence. I also didn’t with her dashing game style and natural colour, so she said maybe not Wesley. talent. “In December I got an offer from Geelong “Eventually I got really good and College! Out of all the options, for some people noticed. I started playing in reason, this was the school… different teams in Victoria and the NT, “Honestly, I didn’t think I would stay for playing a lot more and getting different even a week. It was daunting, totally opportunities. I found I loved it because different to what I was used to. I saw the of the sisterhood, looking after each flash uniform and I thought oh no, this other, celebrating each other and the big school might be too flash for me, but team environment. Also, I had a whole I just moved past that and met all the oval to run… I love running, especially lovely people. running away from people, it’s very exhilarating. When the ball would go “In my time here I think that’s what has somewhere, I would pick it up and run really got me through, all the different with it. Sometimes a bit too far so people people you meet. It’s been a good time. were telling me to bounce the ball, which I’m getting a bit emotional now it’s almost I had to learn.” over, but it’s been good.” In 2017 Steph was told that she In her final year at College, Steph was the should try mainstream schooling and Mossgiel Captain, a Prefect and Captain encouraged to apply for scholarships, of the Inaugural College AFLW team.

14 Ad Astra Issue No 139 “I love it all, being a leader was good. I know if footy was going to be my thing one girl and then she ran away, so I had didn’t know if I could do it, but obviously anymore.” to get it back and kick the goal!’” I could! Being a part of the first girls’ And then COVID-19 hit, and seasons, Fast forward to 6 October in the girls’ footy team was awesome. I loved how it games and draft combines were boarding house and a nervous Steph was some of the girls’ first time playing cancelled, so Steph headed home for is watching a live stream of the draft, footy. four months and decided to hit the waiting for her name to be called, and “In a few years, maybe one of them will training track, hard. In those last few hoping she will get to stay in her adopted say ‘Steph taught me to kick the footy.’ games in Geelong, recruiters had noticed home of Geelong. her and her form in the NT backed up “It’s also good because it’s a real change what they saw. “I kept thinking I hope they still want me for our school. With girls’ footy, football because they were calling out is a girls and boys sport at our school, “I played one game down It is a dream all these other girls’ names. I just like it is everywhere else. It’s a good at Kardinia Park for Joeys, come true, I thought what if they don’t want thing for the girls, they can choose to I didn’t realise at the time, me, or if they don’t get me in because of COVID-19, with didn’t think play footy if they want to.” it would ever time someone else might… or everyone in their masks and someone else might not… While at school Steph continued her in their cars, but a lot of the happen and I’m football journey playing at St Joseph’s Cats people were there. still pinching “But then 27 came and I and for the Geelong Falcons, as well as thought they might pick me and They could also see footage myself. making state teams for the NT. After her from my NT games from last that it would be cool because 2019 season was disrupted with injury, year, when I played pretty alright in some I was born on the 27th of January. Then and she was devastated by the passing of them. they said my name and I just started of her sister, Steph was unsure if footy crying. “In one game, I think it was just a fluke, was for her after all. I handballed it to myself and I kicked a “It is a dream come true, I didn’t think it “I didn’t really play footy that much, I put goal. Everyone thought it was awesome would ever happen and I’m still pinching on a bit of weight, I was eating a lot of and I was like, ‘it wasn’t supposed to myself. I think I will be for the next two cookies and getting a bit sad and I didn’t happen, I was supposed to handball it to years.”

Ad Astra Issue No 139 15 Painting The College ‘rainbow’ LACHLAN HOUEN, YEAR 12 STUDENT Since its founding in the middle of 2018, The Geelong College Rainbow Alliance (GCRA) has strived to create an open and inclusive environment for its members. We aim to foster such an environment and extend it to the wider College community.

While the central focus of the Rainbow this year in support of the LGBT+ was a fun and engaging way to celebrate Alliance is upon creating greater community, attempting to create new one of the most important events on the opportunity and feelings of involvement and imaginative ways to promote LGBT+ calendar. for our school’s LGBTQIA+ students, greater awareness and acceptance Being the chairperson of the GCRA this our ideals extend much further than that, within the school community. This has year has been an absolute pleasure, as aligning with the College’s values of importantly included flying the rainbow it has given me the chance to work with Community with Diversity and ensuring flag on our very own flagpole in Helicon some incredible individuals who have that each and every member of our Place to celebrate Pride Week in June, shown me that the future holds great school’s community feels valued and a clear visual symbol of how far our promise for an open and welcoming appreciated. community has come world, filled with people in accepting those “The future holds great Taking over from Connor McGucken who respect and from diverse sexual at the start of this year was no easy promise for an open and appreciate those around orientations. task, but I am proud to say that even in welcoming world, filled withthem. these trying and tumultuous times, the Another moment people who respect and I encourage all in the GCRA has managed to stay committed we have cherished appreciate those around College community to go to meeting with each other online and is sending out care out into the world with organising events in support of the packages to all of our them.” these values in mind, and LGBT+ and College community. members with a letter of appreciation to above all respect the people you meet and multiple LGBT+ stickers to remind It was admittedly a strange feeling to simply for who they are, not what their them of our support during this difficult be addressing a group of people over predispositions may be. time. Microsoft Teams (most of whom you I look forward to seeing how this group could not see!) but it was certainly Wear It Purple Day (WIPD) was blossoms and expands over the coming something we got used to and grew into, celebrated quite differently this year, with years, and have hope for even greater as much of the College community has members encouraged to wear purple acceptance of all members of the done with the Remote Learning model. items of clothing and use the WIPD College community in the years to come. Teams background in their classes and Aside from the digital leap, the GCRA during our fortnightly meeting, which has been involved in multiple events

16 Ad Astra Issue No 138 Wellbeing in 2020

JOAN GILL, DIRECTOR OF STUDENT WELLBEING - PROGRAMS

This year has presented us with challenges that no one could have predicted. Lockdown heightened our concern for students’ wellbeing and adapting our TripleR programs to remote learning was very important.

Wherever possible during remote some of our previous Some of Paul Dillon’s learning, we ensured our students could exchange students who key messages: still engage with a range of speakers and heard him when they • Adolescent brains are wellbeing presenters albeit as webinars. were on exchange here wired for them to push the two years ago and have Paul Dillon has been presenting to boundaries taken his message to Geelong College students for over • Adolescents weigh risk/ the other side of the a decade so his webinar was much reward differently from world! anticipated by our senior students. The adults. They don’t down key to his success is the relationship he The evening webinar grade the risk, but they give builds with the students over their final proved exceptionally more weight to the payoff three years of schooling. They trust him popular and very timely • Reward increases around and know that he genuinely cares for for parents trying to their peers them. negotiate the new • Parents need to make sure Painting The College ‘rainbow’ realities with their their conversations go Such is his reputation that the image children. pictured (right) was sent to him by beyond the pandemic

Asking the question: RU Ok?

Everyday became RUOK day in lockdown without the daily face to face cues that alert us to student issues. Whilst no substitute for face to face interactions, the regular check-ins with students around their wellbeing were critical. September 9, the annual RUOK Day was recognised across the campuses with simple messages of support and connection. Mr Taylor’s Year 9 Art class captured the essence and The Year 9 Art class created a photographic collage for RU Ok day during context of Remote Learning. the day with The Junior School were engaged adapt to Plan B when Plan A no longer this striking in random acts of kindness as an works. How apt is this definition for the collage. important way of showing care for circumstances we found ourselves in each other. throughout 2020. Mrs Russell, Head of Mrs Russell’s feel-good We never take the wellbeing of our On behalf of all the wellbeing staff, I Middle School video for RU Ok day. students for granted and being aware offer my praise to our students for their encouraged and alert to their social and emotional resilience and adaptability. her staff and students to appreciate the needs in lockdown was heightened. value of a simple smile in her “feel-good” There are many definitions of resilience video. but the one I like best is the ability to

Ad Astra Issue No 138 17 Through the eyes of a teacher On Tuesday 24th March 2020 schooling at The Geelong College, and indeed all of Victoria, entered a new era.

Beginning as a flurry of activity to prepare for what we Senior School – Melissa Barnes anticipated might be a few weeks of students learning from home, evolved into the single biggest disruption to When I realised I would be teaching remotely, I felt nervous education in the State’s history. but reassured that the school was in a favourable position to With up to 20 weeks spent undertaking remote learning, navigate our way through the coming challenges. 2020 has been a very different year for our school I consider myself fortunate to work with our students community. We know that for students and their families, the and have never been more grateful for their kindness challenges have been substantial. Teachers have supported and patience. I admired their resilience as they missed Foundation children who, having just begun their first full many rites of passage; the 18th birthday without a banner year of school, were sent home again. Students in their decorating Helicon Place, the triumphant first solo drive final year of schooling have had to cope with achieving down Talbot Street, the toasted sandwich in the Year 12 under unusual circumstances and deal with unavoidable Common Room. Apart from occasional pranking by muting disappointments as events were sidelined by COVID-19 peers mid-sentence, students were engaged, purposeful restrictions. The experience for those in the years in and cooperative. They politely offered support and ideas to between has been no easier – separated from friends and each other and me as we went through the learning journey families, co-curricular activities curtailed, communicating together. with their teachers only via devices. There is no denying that Teaching is a subtle Teaching is a subtle art relying upon it has been a challenging year, one that no student (or their art relying upon families) would wish to repeat. communication between learners and the communication teacher; slight changes in body language between learners But have you thought about your student’s teachers? Never or facial expression inform our choices. and the teacher; in their careers have they encountered such a seismic shift Sometimes teaching remotely felt like slight changes in in their professional lives. gazing through a dirty windscreen. body language or facial expression “The personal relationships we have with our Was the work too hard, too easy, too inform our choices. boring? Sometimes conversations were students are the lifeblood of our days, and so Sometimes teaching adjusting to a wholly online or remote environment awkward as students worried they might remotely felt like be saying too much or silencing another changes the very nature of what we do,” gazing through a dirty student. Breakout rooms helped and windscreen. - Middle School Leader of Learning, Marita Seaton. sometimes a one-on-one virtual chat Transferring the entirety of their teaching programs to was a perfect opportunity to regain the a digital platform is not simple. Overnight, they needed immediacy of face to face teaching. to become experts in Microsoft Teams, and deliver their This year has been a time of reinvigoration. Those software curriculum in a way that not only kept students learning, but icons that previously raised only a mild curiosity are now also kept them engaged. They needed be able to provide essential tools, and I see great potential for their future use. assistance and support to every student, without the luxury of face to face communication. Thanks to the herculean efforts of IT leaders as well as the generosity of my peers, we reinvented ourselves and As a community, we applaud our teachers for their learned to navigate through different platforms and shared extraordinary effort this year. successes and failures. Our Leaders of Learning across all three schools have This year has been a significant evolutionary event in been invited to share their insights, personal challenges teaching practice. I look forward to seeing the changes as and achievements for the year 2020. Enjoy reading their we return to class. reflections.

18 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Middle School – Marita Seaton Junior School

I’ll admit it, I liked remote learning in the beginning. For - Christie Barrett & Rory McElligott someone who loves innovation and change it was the We set our sights on ensuring we provided the most high- perfect storm. Technology, apps and software that had quality Remote Learning program we could muster. And been sitting in the background, waiting for a gentle roll- muster we did. From boardroom meetings, to home learning out were suddenly thrust into the spotlight. pack production lines, to teaching children to read over It wasn’t just a matter of learning how to video Microsoft Teams – it became a continuous chain of flexible conference; we had to take our entire learning program and agile decisions, made and communicated in all manner and modify it to allow for online delivery and feedback. of nuances, via many channels. We were lucky that SEQTA, with all its possibilities, had Teachers at Junior School feared the loss of hands-on been introduced but entire units of work, built around experiences, knowing the importance of touch, exploration immersive experiences like excursions, required a rethink. and seeing things in the flesh, and the significant part these play in developing strong neurological pathways. How Like any organisation, we had We all missed the could we ensure this when learning would now be through a our early adopters excited at the smiles, the natural device? prospect, the majority who needed banter and even the We have a greater The key was to align deep planning time to adapt and a few were uneasy eye-rolls. Whilst I realisation and within and across year level teams. about venturing into the digital appreciated the effort appreciation for the unknown. made by one student This ensured experiences designed human contact and to turn her mic on for children at home would be rich sense of community As we scrambled to upskill and and laugh at my joke, and individualised. Feedback received that comes with modify I often thought about the it just wasn’t the same. during the first round of lockdown saw attending school and Alice Springs School of the Air - I’m I had already uttered us increase our live teaching, so that the importance of this sure they barely felt a ripple. They those immortal student feedback and assessment could for the development had 60 years to hone and adapt words: ‘Is this on? Can occur in real time. of our College’s their methodology, we had a few youngest students. you hear me?’. What we also underestimated at the time days. was the importance children placed on Inevitably, the sense of adventure that the connections they have with their teacher. was present as we entered this new era of learning was At Campbell House, as Homeroom Teachers we are normally beginning to wane when we returned to our laptops in with our children for much of the day, supporting young Semester 2. students not only academically but also significantly with As I sat looking at the initialled dots on the screen, trying their wellbeing. Ensuring there was dedicated time during to picture the faces they represented, I felt a sense of online sessions for social chats, discussions, sharing and loss. mindfulness brought that much-needed personal touch to our Remote Learning program. Speaking to colleagues and students I discovered that I We feel that Remote Learning was a success for our children, was not alone. and many ideas and ways of working have been enhanced. We all missed the smiles, the natural banter and even However, we now have a greater realisation and appreciation the eye-rolls. Whilst I appreciated the effort made by one for the human contact and sense of community that comes student to turn her mic on and laugh at my joke, it just with attending school and the importance of this for the wasn’t the same. I had already uttered those immortal development of our College’s youngest students. words: ‘Is this on? Can you hear me?’.

Ad Astra Issue No 139 19 Putting a face to the w riter

KELLY WATSON, YEAR 6 LEARNING MENTOR ON READING This year, students in Year 6 have had the opportunity to meet two authors of novels they have studied.

According to student Zac Edebone, you Referring to the main character in the mood and feeling generated by an can’t get enough of a good thing. Tristan Bancks’ Two Wolves, Harry accompanying musical playlist. Garland commented, “When you’ve really enjoyed the story, At Year 6, students study novels you want to meet the person who “In coming up with that character, using a Shared Inquiry approach. wrote it. You want to find out more.” Tristan Bancks must have had quite In responding to open-ended - Zac Edebone, Year 6 a lot of ideas about him that didn’t questions, they clarify and interrogate Putting a face to the writer humanises make it to the page. I’m interested to find out what they were.” ‘big ideas’ and underlying themes, and demystifies the writing process. - Harry Garland, Year 6 they develop arguments and seek It offers students insight into the supportive evidence, forming deeper The opportunity to engage with the motivations, inspirations, frustrations understandings. and the process of writing. authors also provides students with a range of approaches to gathering Spending time with the authors of the “We get to find out more about the ideas. Michael Panckridge shared that texts they study allows students to book, the meaning they intended, what inspired them and what their some ideas are drawn from places resolve any unanswered questions they interests are” he has been or experiences he has have. These experiences are highly memorable and promote positive - Caitlyn Smedley, Year 6 had, whilst Tristan Bancks builds upon images saved to a vision board and attitudes towards reading and writing. They help students to not be simply

20 Ad Astra Issue No 139 The importance of feedback MARITA SEATON, MIDDLE SCHOOL LEADER OF LEARNING The feedback and reporting of progress at the Middle School happens on three levels. Level one – The classroom The most natural and immediate feedback is given in the classroom. The hundreds of small conversations Level three – The end of semester report. that occur in this space are powerful and ongoing, providing learners The end of semester report provides with instant and valuable feedback. the learner’s level of achievement Spontaneous and genuine, this type when reported against the Victorian of feedback is a particular strength Curriculum Standards. The of the Middle School staff as they standards describe what students draw from years of professional are able to understand and do as practice, real-life experiences and a they reach each level. Through fundamental passion for their areas the lens of expertise, teachers use of learning. the evidence provided by tasks, observations and assessments Level two – SEQTA Learn and to decide where the student sits Engage on this continuum of learning. The second level of communication If the student’s demonstrated is through SEQTA Learn and understanding and ability Engage. Here the teacher corresponds with what you would endeavours to capture the many expect to see at their current level observations and evidence of of study they are considered ‘at learning in timely feedback that standard’. As the curriculum is is clear and helpful. Traditionally, scaffolded to build on previous Putting a face to the w riter this type of communication was learning, it is therefore less limited to the classroom, with the common to achieve ‘above’ or occasional graded assessment ‘well above standard’ as it requires making it home in the We all seek a demonstrated understanding of bottom of a school encouragement bag. As the newest of the next level’s skills our reporting formats, and advice, it’s and knowledge. SEQTA Learn is our human nature. What Whilst this report’s consumers of texts, but active participants most transformative happens naturally, main purpose is to in constructing meaning, developing critical and requires a shift is formalised in report to the Victorian thinking and understanding that more than of viewpoint. Here we Curriculum Standards, one interpretation is valid; skills that build can see and follow education. it also provides a capacity to tackle life’s challenges. the student’s growth valuable opportunity as teachers guide them towards for Homeroom teachers and “I like to hear how the author thinks the next step in their learning. Learning Mentors to write a personal about the things that happen in the comment focusing on the student’s story....When we talked to Mr Panckridge, This ongoing and timely feedback social and emotional progress. we had different views about a replaces the teacher comment character’s actions and found different previously found on the end of Unlike an academic report, the quotes that showed these. semester report; a statement that pastoral comment looks at the whole Mr Panckridge told us what he was once tried to describe six months person and how they approach thinking about some of the things we of learning in one pithy paragraph. day to day life as a member of our asked, and there were some things that Now we have an opportunity to vibrant learning community. he hadn’t thought about until we asked” make learning visible through a comprehensive record of student - Eliza-May Bartlett, Year 6 results, feedback and reflection.

Ad Astra Issue No 139 21 Writing: A dance between theory and practice EMMA WATTERS, YEAR 4-6 CURRICULUM COORDINATOR Our theories are always in alliance with the daily work that we do. Theory and practice need always to be in a dance together. We cannot allow theories only to stay in the academic world and services to stay only in the practical world. Theories need to be experienced in the flesh of the world we live in.

- Valentina Violi, Pedagogista in Reggio-Emilia, Reggio-Emilia Study Tour, 2019

As teacher researchers, it is impossible Some of our initial questions were: From this initial brainstorm, two main to separate that which we do with our • How do we teach personality themes emerged. students and the research that we and voice in writing? How can we The first theme we explored was to undertake as a teaching community. In include vocabulary development in take a closer look at what we teach order to constantly revisit, renew and teaching writing? and why we teach it. This involved question our teaching practices, the • In what ways can writing overlap significant time revisiting the Victorian teaching staff in Years 4-6 have spent with other curriculum areas? Curriculum, discussions around our much of 2020 investigating ways to • How do I best assess writing? values as educators and our passions. refine and reinvigorate the teaching of • How do we best conference and We discussed what we love about the writing for our students. provide ‘in the moment’ feedback? teaching of writing and told stories To begin our research, we considered • Are we teaching Victorian Cursive about times that writers surprised, our own personal knowledge and skills. handwriting? inspired or excited us. What did we want to find out? By asking • What can we do to make To add further depth to our investigation, questions of ourselves, we revealed conferences more effective/helpful? teachers engaged in professional more than that which we wished to • Who decides when a piece is reading, investigating the ideas of not know, but also unveiled our values and finished? only highly respected educators in the our priorities. • How do we extend our more field, but also the theories and passions capable writers? of published authors.

22 Ad Astra Issue No 139 One such reading was an article from investigate sources of inspiration and students select an author of interest to The Reading Teacher and the Australian wonder about the value of choice. study over a term. Authors were varied, Literacy Foundation titled: ‘Award Particularly, the team were inspired ranging from William Shakespeare Winning Authors Talk about Writing and by the embedding of student voice to Mark Twain and Jules Verne, to Dr Teaching Writing’, by Shelley Stagg and idea seeding. This includes the Seuss, Ann M Montgomery and Jane Peterson. This reading gave the team multitude of ways that authors record Austen. the opportunity to delve into the world of their ideas during planning, utilising Both of these projects highlight the the writer for information, and to dig into the fields of art and music in particular. depth of connectedness between the mind of the expert. As a result, collages, playlists and reading and writing as students mood boards are being investigated as progress through the primary years. According to the eleven award possible value add elements for writers winning authors in the article, in the planning stages of the writing The second theme in our ongoing three guidelines surfaced with process. which the team instantly clicked: research involved unpacking how we 1. Student writers’ passions and More than increasing our knowledge assess students’ writing, and how goals curiosity should guide topic of the subject area, and igniting the are set. As a team we have begun choice. researcher in us all, this process allowed interrogating best practice assessment the team to further develop streamlined skills that allow our students to share 2. It is important for students plans for the teaching of genre for our their understandings, while giving to dig for information to students, so that they can immerse teachers adequate information to feed their curiosity and themselves for longer in a genre, and create learning goals with all students. provide background for their The team are investigating ways to informational and narrative experience its many forms. In this way, writing. students have the opportunity to test, make feedback for students timely try and experiment with structure within and effective, and as such, the use of 3. Student writers should have the genre to communicate a message the SEQTA platform is being further ongoing feedback to guide the or mood. explored. revising and editing of their writing. Two innovative in-class projects We are excited as a team to continue were developed as a result of this our research, and to consider not investigation. More than mirroring the process our only the interplay between theory The first was a comparative study of students in Year 4-6 undertake during and practice for us as educators, but Tristan Bancks novels in Year 6, which Writer’s Workshop, this information to interrogate further the connection resulted in students not only thoroughly allowed for innovation to take root. The between reading and writing as we immersed in writer craft, but also excited discussion of professional readings move into 2021. to learn more about inspiration, creation afforded the team the opportunity to and style. generate theories about the genesis of ideas, interrogate the teaching of The second was an initiative in Year concept development for students, 5; Author Study. This program saw

Ad Astra Issue No 139 23 The official opening of our Junior School

SONDRA WOOD, HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL CAMPBELL HOUSE Our school was officially opened by the Governor of Victoria the Honourable Linda Dessau AC on Tuesday 27 October.

Like so many events of 2020, we communities, where the architecture – a school designed specifically to reimagined and repurposed the Junior provided endless opportunities for reflect the Reggio Emilia approach to School reopening to fit within our virtual learning to occur within our indoor and education within the context that is The world. outdoor spaces Geelong College. The Governor reflected upon our Reggio Our plaque, sitting proudly on the The Reggio Emilia Philosophy, founded Emilia approach to education and the walls of our original Campbell House by philosopher Loris Malaguzzi in connectedness of our internal and wider classrooms, was unveiled by our 1948, has become a world renowned children, represented by Charlie Murray, educational project that, in its essence, Winifred Tracey, Seamus Tiernan and encourages humanity to view children Lachlan Montgomery. as capable, strong and bearers of rights. While this approach isn’t a ‘new’ one, We continue to express gratitude to it is one that until recently has been John Wardle and JWA Architects for limited to Early Learning educational not only hearing, but indeed listening settings. to what was central to our belief about children as learners and designing At The Geelong College Junior School a space that remained integral to we have actively sought to promote this pedagogy and way of viewing our original Campbell House, but children throughout the primary years. also respected our future in our ever We are grateful that our community changing world. has provided this foundation where The staff and children continually the children have opportunities to be look to this future and the richness of citizens of their present and citizens opportunities that our school provides of our world in a school setting that Chair of Council, Dr Hugh Seward, and grandaughter, Winifred Tracey.

24 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Above: Students at the new Junior School.

Left: Principal Dr Peter Miller and the Governor of Victoria the Honorable Linda Dessau AC.

The official opening My favourite part was watching the children’s faces fill with is diverse and inclusive of the needs of all joy as they first explored the new spaces. It really was such a children – regardless of social background, culture or demographic. special return to school! We will continue to provide a rich tapestry While you have ideas about how the children will respond to the space and of our Junior School encounter the materials, they always manage to surprise with new ideas and of exciting learning opportunities, believing that the image of the learner is well-rounded, ways of learning. confident, active, curious, joyous, connected, As a Foundation team we had put a lot of thought into the set up of the spaces resilient, empowered, creative and and we were really keen to ensure it was both a collaborative and innovative imaginative. Sometimes teacher, sometimes learning environment for all. learner, but always playful and always learning. Having explored the UNESCO rights of the child with the Foundation children earlier in the year we knew how important it was to allow their voices to be In closing, the following words from our heard and value their ideas around the purpose and set up of the spaces. educators and children reverberate as we We referred to our notes from meetings with the children and reviewed their look forward to 2021 where we can open our building plans to consider what materials and provocations would be important doors to welcome those who were familiar in each space. We also wanted to move away from the idea of homeroom with the Campbell House of old into its new spaces and think bigger around how the learning environment could act as the iteration. third teacher. Hopefully you can see purposeful spaces which encourage the use of the Watch the opening hundred languages; the literacy and numeracy atelier, common space, wet Visit the link below or scan the areas, art atelier, construction and digital atelier and dramatic play space. QR code with your device: cutt.ly/JSopening - Ms Sarah Armour Foundation Educator

I really like the sewing machine Some things are new... You can make your own name I like tracing around the I like how I saw the fish. I saw because I like to sew. the nails and hammers… with the little beads. autumn leaves. them in the different parts. – Tyrese ​ I use it with my friends. – Bazzie ​ – Emily ​ – Jude ​ – Aislin ​ Ad Astra Issue No 139 25 House connections SONDRA WOOD, HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL CAMPBELL HOUSE

In the time between An Old Collegian, a genuinely talented On the day of the unveiling, the Year 3 and humble artist, Mr Robert Ingpen children were Robert’s transfixed audience COVID-19 1.0 and was invited to unveil the series of three with the wider community watching the COVID-19 2.0, Campbell paintings he has designed for us. event live, through a digital platform His works celebrate and acknowledge Throughout Robert’s address the children House came alive the reimagined Campbell House and clung to every word and waited patiently once more, albeit the inauguration of the House System at for The Geelong College navy satin veils to Junior School. be removed revealing the amazing story of caught between two our Greek Mythology Preparatory inspired Throughout the year the children have House System. worlds, that of reality been curious as they researched and explored Robert’s books, illustrations and They were not disappointed. The paintings and virtually, as we wondered about the history of Helicon, now hang proudly in the Junior School welcomed Robert Bellerophon, Minerva and Pegasus. Reception area, where they will inspire children for generations to come. Ingpen to our school. Inspired by the Ingpen triptych, the children from Foundationto Year 3 have been motivated to create their own mythical creatures and the worlds in which they live, during Home Learning.

26 Ad Astra Issue No 139 The story behind our Junior We were so excited on the day Robert Ingpen & Middle School houses came to visit. I was excited but not as The Junior and Middle School House structure began excited as my friend Zarli who is an artist. with Pegasus and Bellerophon in 1921, with Helicon I held Cedar’s hand as we saw the big easels House added in 1948, and Minerva in 1963. covered with a blue blanket. Each House takes its name from a creature of Greek He revealed his paintings… they were mythology. Their stories are summarised below. amazing. They didn’t look real, it’s hard to explain it. They Pegasus, the most well-known of the four, is the were incredible. immortal winged horse depicted in our College crest. The three paintings join together to tell the story of our Son of Poseidon and Medusa, he lived amongst the school houses. Muses on Mount Helicon, wild and free-roaming. - Imogen Premraj, Year 3 Bellerophon, an ambitious mortal man, wished to capture Pegasus and make him his steed. Bellerophon was gifted a charmed golden bridle by the wise Goddess Minerva (who is often depicted as an owl), which enabled him to do just that. When Mr Ingpen revealed his artwork, it was so amazing! It didn’t even look like it After utilising Pegasus’ power to defeat a number was painted. of enemies in battle, Bellerophon began to believe himself too extraordinary to continue to live as a mere The paintings really showed the story of mortal. He attempted to fly Pegasus up to Mount Bellerophon, Minerva, Helicon and Pegasus. Olympus (the heavenly home of the Gods) in a quest I got my copy of Storm Boy signed by Mr Ingpen. for immortality. Finn, Aydin and Grace welcomed Mr Ingpen to The Bellerophon’s impudence angered the God Zeus, Geelong College. He talked about our four school houses. who sent a gadfly to sting Pegasus, the pain of which - Lottie Wright, Year 3 caused Pegasus to buck, unseating Bellerophon and throwing him back down to Earth. Pegasus went on to become Zeus’ loyal servant.

Ad Astra Issue No 139 27 Chaplain’s Corner STEVE WRIGHT & LEANNE EARL, COLLEGE CHAPLAINS ‘Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful and endures through every circumstance.” (1 Corinthians 13:7)

Last term with the return to Remote Learning, I was greatly Christmas Hamper Collection encouraged by the stories across our College of kindness, encouragement and care. A timely care package, a kind for Uniting Barwon message or call, a random coffee delivery. It was wonderful to Term 4 brings with it our annual collection of food to put hear from our students how they were being more intentional together Christmas Hampers for Uniting Barwon. to check in on their friends. This has been a part of our fourth term activities across Here are just a few examples from some of our Year 10 the College for several years now. Uniting Barwon, now students: based in Grovedale, supports people in Geelong and offers emergency support for the most vulnerable in our My family I did some form of sport community, offering assistance with budgeting, bills, My Grandma and with a friend of mine... organised an online I baked for each almost every day. That was Zoom birthday housing, clothing and food relief. other. an act of kindness that I party for my little - Andie Taylor really appreciated. cousin.” With the challenges that have presented themselves with - Sophia Francis - Max Lilios COVID-19 this year, the level of need in Geelong has increased, and the challenges are more complex. We often underestimate the influence we have; yet in a year of many challenges, what may seem insignificant, our words The items that we collect will support people who find or simple gestures is what has made all the difference. themselves in need during this year’s festive season and beyond. “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do We thank you for your generous donations this year that small things with great love.” will help the wider community of Geelong to participate and - Mother Teresa enjoy marking the end of the year, while also making things just that little bit easier.

Our 2021 Prefects with the generous donations received during the recent Christmas Hamper Collection. 28 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Chaplain’s Corner

A year to remember PERSPECTIVES FROM BOARDING FAMILIES NICOLE ROACHE, MARKETING MANAGER

The Dudley Family Year 10 student Sophie Dudley was at home in Deniliquin, NSW with mum Mel, Dad Matt and siblings William, Thomas and Lucy, and their Kelpies Tilly and Billie. The family farms livestock and crops.

2020 has been a year to remember, Have you found any creative ways to How did you all manage with Remote how has your family been impacted address the challenges? Learning? by COVID-19? Everyone was overwhelmed to start Technology. Apps to stay connected The border closures, particularly not with. Being online was difficult because with family and friends. Online auctions being allowed into Victoria, were tough. we didn’t have enough internet due to travel restrictions and border When Soph came home she had to service. Sophie had to stay with her closures, it was a different way of doing self-isolate for 14 days. Living in a rural grandparents in town until we had community, we had to shop online as normal things. a satellite installed which then gave items were really limited. It was also How has having your children us enough service for all four of our hard knowing we couldn’t have visitors at home for an extended and children to be online at home. or visit anyone, it made us feel even unexpected period changed things at more isolated, and where we live is your house? What do you believe the long-term impact of COVID-19 will be? pretty isolated! Our family time obviously increased. The disruptions to the food supply Has your business or industry been We had time to do things we wouldn’t chains will be a concern and there are impacted? normally do because life was so busy still many unknowns. We had our challenges. Buying and pre-COVID-19. Building a tree house, selling livestock, and selling grain was playing board games etc. Our family What do you think your children will learn from this unusual period in difficult because of border closures, bond really strengthened. But when history? truck work was put on hold and it was we were all working and doing home hard to get the necessary chemicals for learning everything was about the Respect, appreciation, patience and crops. routine and scheduling. resilience. >> Ad Astra Issue No 139 29 >>

The Boyd Family Year 10 student Hamish Boyd – Walsh was at home in Minhamite, Western Victoria with mum Katrina, dad Paul , sister Charlotte, and The Norton Family Frankie the Jack Russell/Maltese cross. The family Year 11student Zac farms cattle and sheep. Norton was at home Was your business or industry been How did you all manage with Remote in Warrnambool with impacted? Learning? mum Pip (OGC 1989), dad Luckily the farm and farm work could Remote learning has been a challenge, go on as usual. Although there were the internet has been slow at times. But Marcus, brother James challenges you wouldn’t think of, we feel Hamish has been better this last (OGC 2017) and sister like buying bulls from Tasmania, we term with achieving his work goals. couldn’t attend auction and had to buy Sophie. The family own a He has missed Mackie, his main home! online. business in the retail motor How has having your children He’s been there for four years now industry. at home for an extended and and really missed his friends and the unexpected period changed things at contact in the classroom. your house? How has your family been impacted What do you believe the long-term by COVID-19? Probably the main impact for us as a impact of COVID-19 will be? Heading into the first lockdown in March family was having Hamish at home and We all miss our yearly overseas trips we were surrounded with overwhelming doing remote learning, and his sister and are in need of a getaway right now! uncertainty. Charlotte home from Deakin Uni remote What do you think your children will learning as well. Has your business or industry been learn from this unusual period in impacted? history? Like everyone, we did different things Our business is in the retail motor because we were all here together. We hope school life returns to normal industry, and while business stopped ASAP, especially socially. I think we’ve We had fun planning and cooking our during March and April it became busy all realised how much we enjoy things evening meals and watched a lot of again for a few months with people like pubs, restaurants and theatre. We cooking shows. Now we experiment taking advantage of new government tax have also learned to make the best of with lots of new dishes, it’s like incentives. what we have, Hamish really made the Masterchef every night. best of farm life while he was at home Have you found any creative ways to address the challenges? Hamish also got a new friend over this and had the chance. period, his new dog Frankie, a Jack We spent time implementing new Russell Maltese cross. practices to ensure our staff and

30 Ad Astra Issue No 139 customers were as COVID-19 -Safe as but rather family time around an outdoor were about to spend their final few possible and making plans for if a time fire. We learnt to enjoy the slower paced weeks in Mackie. came that we were considered a non- lifestyle and appreciate the time we What do you believe the long-term essential service. Fortunately, being in had together. James was fortunate to impact of COVID-19 will be? regional Victoria our business was able be able to continue his studies while I am both nervous and excited to to remain open. working with Marcus and I. Sophie’s gradually move back into normality and How has having your children work in childcare became non-existent, out of the safety of our bubble. There at home for an extended and as did her course placements, with will probably be a sense of anxiety unexpected period changed things at work only resuming gradually in when attending events with larger your house? September. Despite feeling an enforced gatherings of people. I am hoping life During term time normally Zac would contentedness, we were reminded of will not always be as hectic as it was be at Mackie and James at university the experiences 2020 would no longer prior to COVID-19, and that some of the in Melbourne, leaving Sophie living bring. As we moved into the second flexibility created - working from home, at home while working and studying lockdown 21st and 50th celebrations, online appointments and meetings can part-time. Previously when everyone and annual sporting events were no continue in some way. was home together, we were usually longer postponed, but cancelled. in holiday mode. Suddenly we had all What do you think your children will How did you all manage with Remote learn from this unusual period in three of our children living at home Learning? history? and studying remotely, often from We loved having Zac home from I believe that our kids will look back the kitchen bench. We quickly settled boarding and enjoyed listening to his on this year and see they have a into a routine, planning meals and classes in the background each day. strengthened resilience. They will have exercise around scheduled classes, While Zac also enjoyed being home, developed new ways of achieving and SACs, lectures and online meetings. he missed his friends, the camaraderie reaching potential goals, despite the We all managed to find our own space of the boarding house, and sport. He ever-changing rules and restrictions of when we needed to. Our outdoor area replaced his cross-country season with 2020. As many experiences were taken and garage became a temporary gym virtual running competitions organised away, they will have gained a greater where we could “attend” online Pilates by the Warrnambool Athletics Club, appreciation for their everyday freedom, classes or physio appointments, and but felt it was not quite the same as friendships and family. even practice some golf putting. Our having his opposition running with him. weekends were no longer packed with By September he was very keen to get events and travelling between places, back to school as the Year 12 students

Ad Astra Issue No 139 31 School Activities JS World Teachers’ Day Celebration EL Christmas Wreath Year 6 Performance JS Book Week

32 Ad Astra Issue No 139 MS Year 8 Cre8 SS Girls’ Football Team

SS Shave for a Cure

Ad Astra Issue No 139 33 SS Silly Socks Day Socks SS Silly Issue No 139 No Issue

Bringing flowers to Brentwood flowers Bringing Year 12 Campbell House Assembly House 12 Campbell Year MS Year 8 Camp TGC v SJC

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34 New deputy Principal DR PETER MILLER, PRINCIPAL It was never going to be easy to replace the outgoing and highly respected Deputy Principal Mr Roger Smith. However, I am pleased to announce that Mr Simon Young has been appointed to the role of Deputy Principal from January 2021.

Mr Young has been the Head of Senior a clear commitment to learning and and students on a daily basis as well as School at The Geelong College since influencing others through strong an important connection to our wider July 2017. Mr Young came to us from leadership. community including the Old Collegians, Hale School (Perth) as well as previously Foundation and support groups. As a current member of the College teaching at Radford College (Canberra) Executive team Mr Young has a clear I am sure you will join with me in and The Southport School (Gold understanding of the breadth of the congratulating Mr Young on his Coast). He grew up in Canberra and Deputy Principal role, across the three appointment and we all look forward has also had some experience working schools of The Geelong College. As to his contribution to the life of our in schools in the UK. Mr Young has the Deputy Principal he will be actively community in his new role here from the excellent qualifications in education at involved in the operations of each start of 2021. both the bachelor and masters degree school. The Deputy Principal is an levels and he is currently enrolled in important link across the College for a Master of Business Administration the operations and interactions of staff degree at Deakin University. He has

Ad Astra Issue No 139 35 Staff departures

Barbara Carlson Roger Smith Year 7 and 8 Learning Mentor Deputy Principal Barbara has been an active member of The Geelong After 24 years of loyal service as a Mathematics teacher College community across 30 Years, 18 of which she and member of The Geelong College executive, Mr Roger was the Coordinator of the Helen Mackie Library, Smith has decided to step down from his role as Deputy overseeing a range of changes and developments in Principal at the end of this year. information literacy. This role enabled her to extend herself Fortunately, Mr Smith will continue at College in a part-time professionally and present at a number of Local, State role in 2021 assisting with some key projects related to and interstate conferences. She also brought people our strategic objectives in Learning Outdoors and Service to the College organising Library Seminars held at the Learning across College as Assistant to the Principal – Preparatory School. Special Projects. Barbara has taught children from Years 4 to 8 in Library, Mr Smith’s contribution to the life of our students both English, History and Geography. More recently she has inside the classroom and in Learning Outdoors has been been a part of the Year 8 Elective program, introducing enormous. He has been credited with coining the phrase the Mind, Body and Soul option as a focus on self-care “Learning Outdoors” which captures the importance of the and wellbeing for students. She has always strived to learning experiences of our students beyond the traditional broaden children’s reading experience and to promote a classroom context in shaping their opportunities beyond love of learning and literature. She has done this through their formal school years. projects such as the Year 7 Family Reading Project and the Collaborative reading sessions with Junior and Middle In addition to his teaching and interaction with students at School students. school he has participated in no less than 10 Exploration Society Expeditions over the years as well as Fulfilling Lives Barbara cared for Middle School colleagues and students trips. Mr Smith’s special connection to the community in alike. She valued her role as Learning Mentor at Year 7 and Tanna has been very important for our school. With the 8 and established strong relationships with the students in enthusiastic support and interest of his wife, Heather, the her care and their families. She was a most active member Tanna connection has continued with great significance for of the Staff OH&S committee for several years and also both communities. served as the Middle School Equal Opportunities rep. We are all very grateful for and in admiration of the Barbara describes her time at the College as ‘stimulating, distinguished service to The Geelong College by Mr Smith. challenging, rewarding and never dull. We thank and In each of his roles since 1997 Mr Smith has always been congratulate Barbara on her contribution to the College. a much-respected member of our College Executive team, A life-long learner, she is looking forward to being able especially as Acting Principal in 2015. to explore and discover new learning opportunities and networks, in the local community, and beyond. She will - Dr Peter Miller also focus on spending more time with family and friends, with a focus on personal health and wellness activities.

- Leanne Russell Marita Seaton Claire Bartlett Middle School Leader of Learning Deputy Head of Junior School When Marita Seaton joined the College in 2011 as the Middle Claire Bartlett has been a member of The Geelong College School Art Coordinator, she brought with her a fresh approach Community for almost 13 years. For ten of those years Claire to all areas of the curriculum. Marita turned the Art Centre into was a valued member of Middle School where she taught a living art environment, adding bright colours and student across Year 4, 5 and 6. She oversaw the English Curriculum artwork to the white walls, leading innovative programs, and and in her final year at Middle School stepped into the Year enhancing and developing technology across the curriculum. 4/5/6 Area Leader role - a position she took very seriously. For the last three years I was privileged to work closely with Claire Marita extended the learning of art beyond the classroom in her role of Deputy Head of the Junior School. walls. She also quickly became involved in the life of the College, joining The Geelong College Challenge staff team, Claire is a passionate educator. The children come first. and sharing her love of sport with the students through her Claire has been dedicated in her support, leadership and the involvement in the APS program and Middle School Hockey. ongoing improvement of the Reggio Emilia inspired approach Her experience in the Performing Arts and expertise in audio to education. She has advocated for whole staff understanding visual backdrop and set design also made her a vital member of how we intertwine our environment, curriculum and of the Year 8 Production team. pedagogy. In 2019 Claire was part of our Leadership Team when we were awarded the Victorian Department of Marita has taught and mentored many young people in her Education’s auspicious Professor Collette Taylor Emeritus time at the Middle School, not just through our pastoral care Early Years award for Excellence in Educational Leadership. structures, but in her enthusiastic involvement in opportunities such as the Cre8 projects, Year 8 camp, and the annual Claire has been an influential and all-round sustainability overnight Art Immersion experience. warrior leading best practice in caring for and rejuvenating our environment across The Geelong College. Whilst leading Early in 2018 Marita became the Middle School Leader of the 4/5/6 team Claire supported the ongoing development Learning, a challenge she enthusiastically embraced. She and of the Enviro Year and co-led the College’s Programmatic her team of teachers further developed the Year 7 Learning to Environmental Assessment (PEA) Committee. Claire has Learn program across the following three years, along with the made some wonderful connections and friends during her Year 8 elective program. time at the College and navigated her role as both parent Marita showed great care for the Middle School staff, and educator with poise and professionalism. Claire will be supporting staff through the implementation of SEQTA, beginning an exciting adventure in her professional career as encouraging teachers to look at student feedback and explore she begins her new role as a Primary School Principal. While a variety of approaches to assessment. She was also a Claire will be deeply missed, we are also very excited for her member of the College’s Academic Executive, a cross-school and the new opportunities which lay ahead. leadership group to which Marita contributed richly. - Sondra Wood We thank Marita for the significant contribution she has made and wish her every success for what the next chapter brings.

- Leanne Russell

Ad Astra Issue No 139 37 Emma O’Callaghan Bert Aalders Year 7 Coordinator Middle School Cleaning Supervisor Emma joined The Geelong College in 2013 and worked Bert Aalders, our long serving Middle School Cleaning as a teacher of History, Geography, English and Religious Supervisor, retired in late Term 1. Bert joined The Geelong and Values Education throughout her time at Middle College in 2000 and loved and took great pride in his School. position. He was always prepared to commit to his duties A passionate teacher, Emma connected easily with the no matter how long each role took and was often to be Year 7 and 8 students and always worked hard to create seen still here out of hours as he ensured everything engaging lessons and units of work. was to his satisfaction and ready for the ensuing day. Bert always generously sought ways to support teaching In 2014 she became the English Coordinator and and administration staff and we were always confident continued leading the English staff until she was appointed that significant Geelong College Assemblies and special to Year 7 Coordinator in 2016. Emma excelled in this occasions had received his full attention and the set up position, overseeing the wellbeing and academic progress and presentation of each area was immaculate. Important of our young students in their transition to secondary celebrations and events were always high on Bert’s agenda schooling at College. and we were always proud of our school setting and the She worked tirelessly with students and staff to improve collaboration that had allowed for such presentation. the classroom environment and layout, and proactively Many of Bert’s greatest joys have been with his family; made changes to support the learning environment for holidays overseas with his sister and caring for younger all. Her commitment to the Rowing program was to be family members. He has enjoyed being able to spend more admired, so too her willingness to be involved in every time with them since he has finished and will miss the many facet of school life. Emma has been a mentor and friend to friends he has made in his role at the Middle School. many on staff. We wish Bert well in his retirement, with the opportunity to In 2018, Emma and Nick started their family – since that spend time with family and reflect on a role at the Middle time we have missed her bubbly personality, chats around School that will be long remembered and valued. the staffroom table, the Aminya Laine woollen cardis and her thermomix goodies. - Coral Turner We thank Emma for her contribution to the life at The Geelong College and wish her and her family all the best for their next adventure.

- Georgina Rolls

38 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Pat Clark Helen Plumridge AV Technical Coordinator Junior School Art Teacher It is difficult to summarise Pat Clark’s 21 years at The Geelong Helen commenced her teaching career at Campbell House College. Her involvement in all facets of The College has been in 2009. She was unique in many ways and one of the most significant - not only as a valued member of the Science, Art inspirational, creative educators that I have had the pleasure and Maths Departments, but also as Audio Visual Coordinator, to work alongside. McArthur House Tutor, Staff Association Committee member Helen valued and cared about every idea, connection, original and the school’s IEU representative. thought, comment, and conversation that the children entered Pat began her career at The College in the Science and AV the Art Room with. Together they explored, collaborated, departments taking over during the time when the student discussed, and created some amazing pieces of art. No laptop program was in its infancy and teachers were still using idea was too small, no connection dismissed but creativity overhead projectors and VHS tapes. The technology changes was given the freedom of expression in each child’s unique that Pat has implemented since have been astronomical. learning style. She also quickly established herself as the resident school Her amazing artwork with the children added the ‘Wow’ factor photographer. Her photos constantly graced the pages of to many Campbell House dramatic productions. Helen worked Pegasus and Ad Astra, as well as video productions, many tirelessly to create sets, props, and costumes to create of which Pat herself created. Each video production was a stunning visual performances. Priceless memories are etched testament to Pat’s hard-work, with each requiring many, many in my mind of the looks of wonder on the children’s faces as hours of dedication. collaborative projects took shape and ideas became reality. In her time at The College, Pat taught across the Science, The process was valued as much as the result. Maths and Art Departments and has had close ties with the No Campbell House Athletics Carnival was complete without Library Department, combined with her cross-campus AV Mrs Plumridge’s famous obstacle course! With her distinctive Coordinator role. Always willing to put her hand up to help style, Helen created a course that all the children loved. They others, she has embraced her roles as IEU representative and ran, laughed, jumped, twirled around the colourful, unique employee advocate wholeheartedly. She was also an active course and it was always a highlight of the day. member of the SS Staff Association. Helen also gave her time generously and freely to both staff In addition to her official roles, Pat has great rapport with her and students. Children knew that Mrs Plumridge was always students. With her quirky sense of humour and quick wit, the there for them in the Art Room, for all creative projects. She relationships she has developed with the many students in her created a safe, nurturing environment where special projects care have ensured her classes are engaging and inspiring. were initiated, ideas explored, and boundaries pushed. Her own “never give up - just give it a go” attitude encourages students to always try their best. Being a passionate McArthur Thank you Helen for your significant contribution to the House Tutor since her first year at The College has also creative development of the Campbell House students. Your ensured her blood runs black. wisdom, kindness, care, patience, generosity of your time and talent will be remembered in the hearts of the many children We thank Pat her for substantial contributions to The College. whose lives you touched. She will be sorely missed by all. We wish her every happiness for the future and hope that she will allow herself to take a Wishing you health and happiness for the next exciting well-earned rest! chapter of your life.

- Andrea McGucken - Edwina Davis

Ad Astra Issue No 139 39 Foundation President’s Report

J A (SANDY) HUTTON (OGC 1973), FOUNDATION PRESIDENT This is my final report after As would be expected, COVID-19 forced the cancellation seven years as President of the Foundation, I will be stepping of most of the Foundation’s events for 2020. down early next year. The Foundation were looking forward ongoing support in what has been a It has been a great privilege to hosting our functions this year, challenging year. and I wish to sincerely thank all including the Foundation Members’ The Junior School Foundation Board members, the Lunch, the Foundation Concert, The major achievement of the Principal Dr Peter Miller, Council our Morrison Society morning tea, Foundation during 2020, and indeed Chairman Dr Hugh Seward, and the our annual Community Golf Day at since its incorporation in 1987, has Community Relations team for all the Barwon Heads Golf Club, the been the financial contribution to the their support and involvement over Morongo Lunch for Morongo Old redevelopment of the Junior School this time. Much has been achieved, Collegians and our Melbourne drinks (Campbell House) and illustrates the Foundation continues to grow which we co-host with the OGCA that the Foundation is not only about and provide significant assistance each year. assisting for the future but also for to the College and its students. Unfortunately, all of these events were delivering in the present. Foundation My best wishes are extended to the cancelled which greatly disappointed funds were also committed this year incoming President. the Board. We look forward to being for the continuing refurbishment able to welcome our community back of the Cloisters classrooms at the As is often remarked, “the College to all of these events in 2021. Senior School as part of the annual always punches above its weight division” and will continue to do so. Year 12 Music Principal’s project. The Year 12 music students weren’t - Sandy Hutton able to celebrate the culmination of their music journey at the College as they normally would at the Foundation Concert this year. So in lieu of this, the Foundation presented each of these students with a book to acknowledge their commitment to music at the school and to wish them well with their future endeavors. Good luck to these students and to all of the Year 12 students as they finish a very difficult final year at the College. Annual Giving Our Annual Giving campaign was conducted in a more low key personal format this year and the result exceeded our expectations and only highlights the generosity of the College community in supporting the Foundation, Scholarships including the Dr Bill Williams Scholarship, and the continued refurbishment of our heritage buildings. Thank you for your

Music Co-Captains Danny Yang and Jess Wynhoven with Sandy Hutton

40 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Artwork by local Aboriginal artist, Nathan Patterson, in collaboration with The Geelong College staff. Dr Bill Williams

Dr Bill Williams as a TGC Prefect in 1975, and Tjungurrayi speaking at an event in 2007. About the scholarship Scholarship The Dr Bill Williams Tjungurrayi Scholarship Fund was established in May 2018 to DR PETER MILLER, PRINCIPAL support Indigenous students attending The I feel it is important to provide you what they receive through the Smith Geelong College. The scholarships are to with an update on the progress Family program. This approach has be supported by an endowment fund, to made with regard to the growth developed over the last year and has exist in perpetuity. of the Dr Bill Williams Tjungurrayi proven to be very effective assisting Dr Bill Williams completed Year 12 at The Scholarship Fund as well as our Indigenous students on the Geelong College in 1975 and went on to the support it has enabled for ground here in Geelong. train as a doctor. Always a man of principle Indigenous students here at The Our long-term goal remains and conviction, Bill became a social activist, Geelong College. unchanged. We are seeking to have particularly involved in the campaign The funds raised and held in sufficient funds to finance full time against nuclear weapons. He was also this scholarship fund are now Indigenous students in boarding involved in environmental and feminist approaching $100,000. This is while maintaining a corpus of funds issues. an impressive amount in the first to secure long term support of this Bill lived with his family for an extended two years since its launch. Some type. Currently, our funds are not at period at Kintore, an Indigenous community donations have been one-off while that level, but they will be, in time. in the Northern Territory. He wrote a novel others are part of an ongoing I thank those generous donors inspired by his experiences there, and commitment to regular giving by that choose to support our Dr Bill returned regularly to continue his medical donors. All contributions have been Williams Tjungurrayi Scholarship work with Indigenous people. He was gratefully received. It is expected the fund . due to return there a few weeks after his funds will continue to grow while still untimely death in September 2016. He was providing our Indigenous students I encourage those that are a staunch advocate for Indigenous people with significant financial support. interested in supporting our Indigenous students to contact: for much of his life. The relationship with the Smith Peter Moran This scholarship program supports Family continues to be one of the Associate Director of Advancement 5226 3194 or Indigenous students, reflecting Bill’s own main avenues for identification and [email protected]. commitment and passion, and continuing introduction of Indigenous students his work in actively addressing Indigenous to The Geelong College. Therefore, You can also visit our disadvantage. It is also supporting the we will be using funds from the Dr website via: education of Indigenous students by Bill Williams Tjungurrayi Scholarship cutt.ly/Bill_Williams investing in their, and our, future. to provide support to a number of Indigenous students in addition to

Ad Astra Issue No 139 41 Remembering Rev. Sir Frank Rolland CAROLINE STOK, ARCHIVIST In 1920 The Geelong College’s 5th Principal, Rev Frank Rolland (1878-1965), commenced at the school; his tenure lasted until 1945.

“Everyone knew each other and all “I can still picture the door opening and Much has been written about about them.” he would come and sit with us.” Reverend Sir Frank Rolland over the years and each reflection Generations of families had the same It was during these informal Common paints a picture of a man who had Principal. At one point, at least eleven Room gatherings that the boarders got an incredible influence on our cousins were all students at the College to know more about their Principal; that College. at the same time. he had trained to be a Presbyterian minister, worked at the Dunesk Mission With 2021 being The Geelong Everyone spoke so highly of Mr Rolland. in outback South Australia and had College’s 160th year, we wanted Parents and grandparents recalled been a padre in the AIF. to look at things differently: who fond memories of their own time at the was ‘Mr Rolland’ in the eyes of his College, and passed that respect down Reverend Rolland regaled the boarders students? to their children. with his stories of ‘nurses on camels’, life in the outback, and serving hot We spoke to nine Old Collegians Mr Rolland only taught one subject – cocoa to soldiers. about their memories of their Religion – so students were more likely Principal, and their time at College. to encounter him at assembly and These life experiences combined around the school grounds where he with Mr Rolland’s easygoing nature joined them for a chat. meant that he was not a traditional disciplinarian. According to his students, There is no denying the last impact Despite his position of authority, his he had a ‘cool and level approach’. Rev Frank Rolland has had on the past approachable manner meant that students of The Geelong College. students such as Eric Mitchell had ‘no That’s not to say he didn’t enforce the Each of the ‘Old Boys’ we spoke with fear’ of knocking on his study door. rules. had unique memories of him, and of “He would listen intently to what “I remember once he caught students their time here at College. one had to say – even a 15 year old shooting rabbits with shanghais, and he “(School) was so long ago but it student.” admonished them...but in a nice way. seemed like an eternity at the time,” said On Saturday evenings Mr Rolland would “The Vice Principal was often the David Salmon. visit the Junior Boarders Common Room ‘hatchet man’.” During Mr Rolland’s tenure the school to read and tell stories as Bill Huffam Ben Johnson recalls the boys crowding was smaller. fondly recalls. outside the Vice Principal’s office

42 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Left: Reverend Rolland in 1945, and in service during WW1 Above: Reverend Rolland (front middle) and the 1945 College Prefects. Remembering Rev. Sir Frank Rolland and counting the strikes being dealt to “Young boys don’t like being asked about students who had misbehaved. these sorts of subjects!” In contrast, they recall at least one Mr Rolland’s impact has endured far occasion when Mr Rolland challenged beyond the school gate, with each Old a misbehaving boy to a game of tennis Collegian having their own story to tell. in lieu of traditional punishment. On the “He set a moral compass for the boys court, the boy was thoroughly bested. and taught the principles of philanthropy,” When World War II hit, Mr Rolland deeply George Tippett recalls. felt the lows, and celebrated the highs. “I had a good rapport with Mr Rolland,” “At assemblies, he would announce the Andrew Hope said. “While I was studying “He was a tall man way up there.” names of past students who had been at university, Mr Rolland wrote to me killed with tears in his eyes.” suggesting I consider a career in ministry.. “Very, very tall, outstanding man.” When peace was declared Mr Rolland and that’s what I became.” “He had a blissful way, very cancelled the day’s classes. For Peter Eaton, Mr Rolland sparked a content.” lifelong interest in Australia’s outback. “There was a conga line on the oval!” “A tall, slim distinguished person The sense of relief that the war was over Some years after school finished, after his with an aura of quiet authority. “ was palpable as Mr Rolland watched the marriage, Ken Lewis again made contact “He was a great presence.” boys celebrate. with Mr Rolland. He was amazed to find his former Principal knew him immediately. In addition to his love of fun and frivolity, “He had real dignity” “He actually remembered me. He was still Mr Rolland is also remembered for his “He was known as ‘Mr Rolland’ or the same friendly tall man with blue eyes.” spirituality and prayers at assembly. ‘The Head’ or by the nicknames “He would close his eyes when saying No small feat, considering the length of ‘Wot Say’, ‘Lofty’, and Franky’. his prayers. There was a simplicity and a Mr Rolland’s tenure at College and the - Recollections from Old Collegians purity about the prayers he took. number of students he had taught. “I had heard he was such a hero, and Though it’s been 54 years since his Bill Dix (OGC 1939), Peter Eaton (OGC when I met him, he was so gentle. I passing, his legacy lives on in the lives 1940), Rev Andrew Hope (OGC 1942), thought that, as it was a Church school, he and memories of his past students. And Bill Huffam (OGC 1944), Ben Johnson might be one of God’s messengers.” it’s clear to see why. (OGC 1938), Ken Lewis (OGC 1942), Eric Mitchell OAM (OGC 1943), However, some students proved harder to Read more about Mr Rolland David Salmon (OGC 1943), engage in religion than others. and his life on The Geelong College Heritage Guide George Tippett (OGC 1940) “The (religious) message didn’t get cutt.ly/RevRolland through to all of us.

Ad Astra Issue No 139 43 Each year the OGCA presents our Year 12 students with a small gift, both to congratulate them on the completion of their secondary education, and also to welcome them as an Old Collegian. COVID-19 restrictions meant that this year’s ceremony looked somewhat different to usual, with social distancing and face masks in place. OGCA President’s report THANE JOSKE (OGC 1990), OGCA PRESIDENT The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our community in many ways and 2020 has been a most unusual, uncertain and challenging year. It has been a year of social distancing, working and learning from home, hotel quarantine, face masks, and of all things – toilet paper shortages!

The pandemic has disrupted 2020 for resources and over 50 alumni forums, and I am sure that many of all, and the OGCA has been equally taking part in the program these forums will continue in the future. impacted. Where in 2019 we hosted • The Business Directory on TGC Looking ahead to 2021 some 21 events, 2020 has provided Connect, featuring 80 OGC 2021 is an important year for TGC, opportunity to host just 4 events, with businesses, and profiles of and marks 160 years since the the Albert Bell Club dinner on 13 March businesses and alumni via social establishment of the school, and 120 being our last event hosted for 2020. media years since the first OGCA meeting was held on 3 May 1901. We look forward to While many events were sadly • Online reunion videos, livestreamed celebrating these important milestones cancelled, our Community Relations on Facebook team has “pivoted” and continued to with our wider community. • The creation of the OGCA Thought host reunion events online via Facebook Events and activities are already being Leaders series, featuring alumni livestream, and our wider community planned for 2021. This will include a Darrell Wade, Romney Nelson, has embraced technology during a time reception to acknowledge inductees to Diana Taylor and John Wardle of social distancing. the OGCA Portrait Gallery of Notable Additional activities embraced by In many ways, the pandemic has Old Collegians. provided opportunity for our overseas Community Relations include: In March, the school is participating in and regional alumni to participate Geelong Design Week 2021. It is hosting • A focus on mentoring, with the through these online webinars and development of a mentoring a Young Masters panel highlighting

44 Ad Astra Issue No 139 the diversity of work of our OGCs and In 2020, the OGCA farewelled you also to the wonderful assistance showcasing young designers. This event longstanding committee members, provided by Mike Howell, Chelsea continues our approach to unite, inspire Honorary Treasurer Tim Noonan Matheson, Niki Nurnaitis, and the rest of and engage our wider school community. (OGC 1994) and Honorary Secretary the team at Community Relations. Bridgette Kelly (OGC 1997). We thank On behalf of the OGCA committee, thank Join our network at TGC Connect Tim and Bridgette for their enduring you for your support of our association. Our focus on maintaining connection with leadership and involvement over the We offer many ways for our alumni to stay community continues, and we encourage past 10 years. At our AGM in October, involved, including TGC Connect, the our global OGC community to join TGC we also farewelled committee member OGCA LinkedIn group, OGCA Facebook Connect (you can sign up at www. Steph Guy (OGC 2008) and welcomed page and OGCA newsletters. We welcome tgcconnect.com). This platform provides Caitlin Lamont (OGC 2009). your feedback. Please email ogca@ OGCs with the opportunity to strengthen geelongcollege.vic.edu.au our positive interactions and connections OGCA Honours Long-Serving Staff through: At the end of each year, OGCA hosts To our newest Old Collegians, you may have left the school, but your friendships • Connections - Find and reminisce a celebration to recognise College will last a lifetime. We look forward to with fellow graduates, see what they staff who have served five or 25 years. seeing you at one of our events in 2021. have been up to and stay in touch Whilst the cocktail party could not be held this year, presentations were still • Giving back - Introduce, employ conducted to staff members achieving and offer to act as a mentor to our these milestones. graduating students 37 staff were presented with OGCA • Expanding - Leverage your ties and bracelets in small groups Welcome Kylie Mackey professional network to get across three campuses for the five introduced to people you should years presentations. Kylie Mackey I would like know presented Honorary Life Membership to warmly welcome new The Geelong College Outreach certificates and Pegasus medallions program to the four staff who have achieved 25 President Kylie Mackey (OGC The OGCA remains steadfast in our years of service: Murray Fanning, Vicky 1993). As a fifth commitment to support survivors of Henderson, Meredith Herbert and generation OGC, historic harm, and we fully support the Greg Smith. Kylie brings an school’s Outreach program. On behalf unprecedented of the OGCA, I apologise to those Farewell level of members of our community who have This report marks my last as President enthusiasm and passion for TGC, not felt welcome; we acknowledge the of the OGCA. and will continue the great work and extensive harm that has occurred in the Thank you also to all the committee legacy of the OGCA. past, the lives that have been ruined, and members for their efforts in making this the ongoing journey of recovery for our year successful for us all, and thank survivor community.

Call for nominations OGCA Portrait Gallery of Notable Old Collegians

The OGCA launched its Portrait Gallery of Notable Old Collegians in 2011. The Gallery celebrates notable alumni whose achievements embody the spirit of the College motto - Sic itur Ad Astra (Reach for the Stars). Quite simply - they have reached the top of their particular field of endeavour, and achieved significant success. Photographs of the inaugural inductees are on permanent display in the 1873 entrance to the Senior School.

Nominations are now open for the 2021 induction. We invite all members of The Geelong College The OGCA Portrait Gallery community to nominate candidates for of Notable Old Collegians, consideration using the enclosed nomination commonly referred to as ‘The Notables Gallery’; Outgoing form or online at cutt.ly/OGCA2020. OGCA President, Thane Joske. Ad Astra Issue No 139 45 OGC NEWS

Justin Harding (OGC 2000) On 18 March 2020 Justin Harding married Stephanie Lauria. The ceremony and reception were held at Marnong Estate in David Lamont (OGC 1982) Mickleham. David Lamont was appointed Chief Financial Officer of BHP. David has Justin and Steph were very fortunate to been the CFO of ASX listed global biotech company CSL since January get married the week before COVID-19 2016. Prior to joining CSL, David was CFO and Executive Director restrictions came into force! at MMG from 2010. He previously served as CFO for several other multinational companies across a range of industries. The couple live in Melbourne, where Justin David has an impressive record in financial management having is a Town Planner and Steph is an early completed his Bachelor of Commerce degree at Deakin University in childhood educator. 1986 and joined the Institute of Chartered Accountants (Australia) in Image Credit: Ryan Wheatley @ rweddings 1989.

Chong Lim (OGC 1977) Congratulations to Chong Lim, who was the Musical Director behind the orchestral arrangement of the Australian National Anthem at the AFL Grand Final, performed by Tim McCallum. “From the outset I wanted to have a fresh new look at the national anthem and a reharmonisation and after listening to the beautiful sound of Tim’s voice I was determined to orchestrate something that would envelop his vocals with Nicholas Fulton warmth. I’m proud to say that (OGC 2011) the wonderful Queensland symphony performed it to Nicholas was admitted as an perfection and Tim absolutely Australian Lawyer and Officer of smashed it across the park. I’m the Supreme Court of Victoria on very proud of the result!” September 11, having graduated from a Bachelor of Laws at Deakin Tim McCallum was equally University earlier this year. happy with the outcome. In November, he received his “It was a privilege and an Graduate Diploma in Legal honour to share this stage with Practice, which complements his you. Chong, your arrangement 2016 Bachelor of Arts and Diploma was a masterpiece, I was in Languages from the University of so proud to sing it. And the Melbourne. Orchestra was incredible, With a strong interest in politics can’t wait to perform with you and civics, Nicholas was elected as again.” President of the Geelong Region Young Liberals in December 2018, Musical Director Chong Lim with singer Tim McCallum. where he continues to serve.

46 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Rebecca Maddern (OGC 1995)

The Cats No 1 ticket holder Rebecca Maddern did a great job hosting 'The Grand Final Eve - My Room Telethon' recently. Over the last 4 telethons more than $5m has been raised for My Room Children's Cancer Charity.

Ned McHenry (OGC 2018) Congratulations to Ned McHenry, who made his AFL debut with the Adelaide Crows in June this year, and has so far played eight games with the club.

Joel Carnegie (OGC 2004) Joel has co-created a film entitled ‘Three Metres’. The film addresses climate change issues through the eyes of the island nation of Kiribati, whose very existence is threatened by rising sea levels. Joel tells - ‘by the end of the century a one metre sea level rise could swallow two thirds of the island.’

Levi Turner (OGC 2001)

Congratulations to Levi Turner on his amazing efforts. Levi recently ran the length of the Great Ocean Road (300 kms) on 19-23 October and, in doing so, has raised $15,000 for local charity Geelong Mums.

Will Schofield (OGC 2006)

2018 West Coast premiership hero and Lachie Henderson Old Collegian, Will Schofield, announced (OGC 2007) his retirement from AFL at the end of 2020. Lachie played his 185th game in this year’s AFL Grand Final. Though “I’ve never been an All-Australian or a the final score wasn’t what Cats’ leadership group guy, but I’ve been a supporters were hoping for, it was a team player and have tried to play my solid performance by Lachie. role as best I can.”

Ad Astra Issue No 139 47 Promote your business FREE

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48 Ad Astra Issue No 139 IF YOU’RE NOT ON THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY, WHAT ARE YOU MISSING? The OGCA directory connects businesses with prospective customers and makes it easy for everyone to find and support local businesses in our Alumni Network. If you are a current family or a part of our Alumni Network, claim your free listing.

WHAT WILL MY LISTING LOOK LIKE? Your business will be listed in the overall directory index. You will also have your own business page where you can write a paragraph about your business. Add an exclusive offer if you like. On occasion, we may also feature your business in other publications or platforms, such as Ad Astra and our OGCA Facebook page.

WHAT’S THE CATCH? There isn’t one. Our directory is, and will forever be, free of charge. It’s just an extra service we offer to our College community.

WHO CAN ACCESS THE OGCA DIRECTORY? Directory index The Directory is part of our Geelong College Connect Business listing members’ site, and can be accessed by Old Geelong Collegians, Morongo Old Collegians, as well as Looking for a local business or current parents. Simply sign in or sign up to view. service? Visit the OGCA business directory tgcconnect.com/business-hub

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Did you know we have a community jobs board? If you’re looking to find an intern, casual staff or fill a permanent position, why not look to your College community, first?

Our jobs board is easy to use, free of charge and is accessible to our Alumni community and current parents. www.tgcconnect.com

Ad Astra Issue No 139 51 Thought Leaders: Pos itive Action for Now

MIKE HOWELL, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS

With so many planned events unable live, interactive, and available to our afterwards via our podcast or video to go ahead this year, the Old Geelong community on a virtual platform. recordings. Below is a summary of the Collegians’ Association (OGCA) was speakers and their stories. We sought out Old Collegians who determined to find a way to bring a are not only successful, but who have message of hope and positivity to The carved their own paths to success and Watch or listen to College community. have an interesting story to tell. the Thought Leaders An idea was born - to approach Old series: Hundreds of viewers have participated Collegians who are a leaders in their cutt.ly/ThoughtLeaders across the four episodes, either chosen field and ask them to give watching live at home, or catching up short talks. These talks would be

Darrell Wade (OGC 1978) Romney Nelson (OGC 1994) Darrell Wade is a co-founder of Intrepid Travel and Romney is a best-selling author and has experience Executive Chair of the Intrepid group, the world’s in the fields of health, exercise physiology and sports largest provider of adventure travel experiences which training. he started 31 years ago. He was recently appointed He spoke on why the development of daily habits is so as Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee of important to maintain both your physical and mental the World Travel & Tourism Council. Darrell is also a wellbeing. passionate advocate for sustainable tourism. Romney believes that now, more than ever, is the time The travel industry is amongst the sectors which has to work on goal setting and creating good habits. been hit hardest by COVID-19 . Darrell provided great insights into looking beyond the crisis by thinking “You must control what you can control and have good differently as a business leader, the importance of people around you to push you and get the best out of building corporate resilience into an organisation and you.” never forgetting what your purpose is. Be passionate on having the right goals, Never stop learning, back yourself (as it’s start small, have an action attitude so that easy to have doubts) and keep improving it becomes engrained and the results will your skills as you don’t know what you speak for themselves. don’t know.

52 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Thought Leaders: Pos itive Action for Now

Diana Taylor (MOC 1992) John Wardle (OGC 1971) Diana Taylor, lawyer, director, business owner, consultant When John Wardle was engaged by Council to work on and Vice-President of the Geelong Football Club, gave the College masterplan he said there was some trepidation fascinating insights into her leadership journey, the initially as he has huge respect for past College architect, importance of having good mentors and how the growth of McGlashan Everist, and felt indebted to Neil Everist. He felt women’s sport has fundamentally changed our world. a huge responsibility and saw it as a remarkable privilege. Diana also touched on how COVID-19 had changed Earlier this year John was awarded the Gold Medal, the everything whether it was on a personal, business or highest accolade in Australian architecture. He humbly community level. The consequences of which were described himself as someone who leads from the middle, particularly brutal and presented real challenges as a collects odd objects and gathers together bright people leader. into a creative coalition. Her focus was on being kind and empathetic. In his practice he encourages curiosity, collaboration and draws inspiration from those around him. She also spoke about the importance of service which was instilled in her as a student at Morongo Girls’ College, In designing new buildings John spoke about reimagining something that has continued throughout her life through spaces through deep engagement with stakeholders by her volunteer work. the exploration of ideas, ambitions, history and solving problems. For Diana, volunteering is about contributing and having the capacity to give back and help others. He described the new Junior School redevelopment as an orchestrated journey that is only really understood once A passionate advocate for women’s sport, she is thrilled to invited in. The outer wall is a village (Reggio Emilio) which see the dramatic rise in the profile of Women’s AFL, with opens up to a sequence of spaces and draws you in. over half a million women across Australia playing football.

“An architect needs to be a great observer “Work hard, find people around you for who innately observes the world around you support, have courage, go hard, and don’t look coming to conclusions on the patterns that back. “ exist, the history that is evident and having an understanding of things that are symbolic of the physical environment.”

Ad Astra Issue No 139 53 Morongo Girls’ College - a place to call ‘home’

CAROLINE STOK, ARCHIVIST

Nora Valk (MOC 1946) is a survivor. She made it through the Second World War, including an internment in a Japanese concentration camp, then travelled half way around the world to make Australia her home. Now 90 years old, Nora Valk is committed to telling her story; to honour her past and educate others.

Nora was born in the former Dutch East Japan surrendered in August, just five Contact was made, and Nora was able to Indies to parents Paul and Gladys Valk. months later, and a grieving Nora found reconnect with her father. Together, they She had a happy childhood until the herself free. However Nora’s troubles travelled to Sydney to recuperate and were not yet over. consider their options. Second World War tore her family apart. Just as WWII was ending, the Indonesian Nora’s father was able to gain In 1942, in the thick of the Japanese War of Independence was beginning. employment with a Dutch-based occupation, Nora’s father was sent to a Alone and without family, Nora again company, and it was decided that Nora Prisoners of War camp in Japan whilst faced the possibility of being caught up should go to boarding school to enable Nora and her mother were sent to a camp in war. her father to work. in Ambarawa, Java. This time luck was on her side. Evacuated Not knowing where to start in the hunt The conditions were terrible and out of Indonesia by the British, Nora was for a suitable school, they reached out to taken to Singapore, where she anxiously connections they had made in Sydney. deteriorated further during their time awaited news on the fate of her father. Following a glowing recommendation there. from an Old Collegian, Nora applied, and After many letters, and through the aid was accepted at Morongo Presbyterian In April 1945, then 15-year-old Nora of the Red Cross, there was finally some Girls College. watched helplessly as her mother died of good news for Nora. Her father, too, had dysentery. survived the war.

54 Ad Astra Issue No 139 From left: 1. Nora Valk in the Morongo Girls’ College uniform 1947; 2. The Morongo Girls’ College Baseball team in 1947 - Nora is standing second from left, and Dorothy is standing second from right; 3. Dorothy and Nora c1946-7.

She started in February 1946, in Year 10. Notes passed between Nora and She returned to Semarang, Indonesia for Just six months after the War had ended. Fred with the help of mutual the first time in 1973 to visit her mother’s grave, and has visited a number of times The travel from Indonesia to Sydney, then friend, Dorothy Brownlees, and a since. on to Geelong ‘felt like a whirlwind’, and teenage romance began. the adjustment to boarding school life As the years march on, Nora is committed to remembering her past – the tragedies, wasn’t easy for Nora. as well as the triumphs – and passing Following the freedom of a summer spent history to next generation on Bondi Beach, Nora found boarding A well-loved photo album holds some school life to be claustrophobic – its ‘rules of these memories, including of one of and lines (of students)’ frustratingly similar Nora’s most cherished moments – her to life in the Concentration Camp. two years at Morongo Girls’ College. Over time, Morongo grew on Nora. After It was there at the College that a young the trauma of her earlier years, it was Dutch girl, fresh from the horrors of war, nice to have some stability. She began found exactly what she needed. A place to feel more at home as she developed to call ‘home’, and friends she has never friendships with the other girls, and joined forgotten. in their extra-curricular activities, including baseball and church on Sundays. It was at Newtown Presbyterian Church Read more about that she was first introduced to the boys of Geelong College student, Nora’s story The Geelong College. Fred Davies, 1947. Dutch author, Syl Van Duyn has The two Colleges came together for But there was nothing she could do, penned a young adult novel events from time to time, and at the Senior and she was forced to return to the based on the life of Nora Valk. School dance, one particular Geelong Titled ‘Girl Out of Place’, it has country of her birth. been translated into English College boy caught her eye – Fred Davies. But Nora didn’t go quietly. In an by Ernestine Hoegen and is Notes passed between Nora and Fred act of protest, she refused to finish her available to purchase in bookstores and online, both on Kindle and in print. with the help of mutual friend, Dorothy final school year in Holland. Instead, she Brownlees, and a teenage romance enrolled in a typing and shorthand course. View the book trailer began. This would go on to serve her well. for ‘Girl Out of Place’ cutt.ly/nora But all too soon, Nora’s time at Morongo Since then much has happened for Nora. came to an end, as circumstances beyond She went on to marry and have three her control forced her to return to The children, and has been blessed with ten Get in contact with Nora Netherlands. grandchildren. Nora has maintained life- Nora would love to hear from her long friendships with the girls she met at College community, in particular, any Nora was devastated. She was finally Morongo, has shared her story with school fellow Morongo Old Collegians. feeling at home in Australia, surrounded students, has travelled the world, and lived You can email Nora at: by new friends, and didn’t want to leave. in many places. [email protected]

Ad Astra Issue No 139 55 International relocation during a global pandemic

MIKE HOWELL, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Julian Carroll , ex-Head of the Preparatory School, shares with us the experience of his recent move to Vietnam.

Departing from Victoria in early August to report that he has continued this Leanne Russell, Mrs Libby Russell, but this year for Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, tradition at his school in Vietnam (see really, all the College staff. during the height of the COVID-19 accompanying Moon Festival photo!) “One of my most satisfying pandemic was a decision that was both For Julian and Elisa, life in Ho Chi achievements at The Geelong College stressful and exciting for Julian Carroll Minh City is vibrant, with the hustle of was being involved in the major and his wife, Elisa. motorcycles, exotic cuisine, tropical redevelopment of the Middle School. Julian has now settled into his new afternoon downpours and the gentle, “We created contemporary spaces that role as Principal of the Primary and kind nature of the Vietnamese people allowed students and staff to experience Kindergarten Schools of the Australian always on display. rich and collaborative learning, and International School (AIS) of Saigon. “Given the COVID-19 situation there was facilitated the renewal of the Enviro The school is part of the Inspired Global initially some concern about whether project. All things that would continue to group of schools and is recognised as a we’d be safe. But the response by the serve the College for years to come.” world leader in education. Vietnamese government authorities has Julian has enjoyed watching the “I have responsibility for over 600 been remarkable, with a very low rate of continued progress of The Geelong students and 80 staff spread across four community transmission.” College from afar. campuses. It’s a wonderful opportunity, Julian continues to have close and I’d have to say that my time at The “It’s great to see the ongoing growth connections with The Geelong College Geelong College was great preparation and success of the school, and I have community and speaks fondly of his for the role.” no doubt there is plenty more still to time here. come.” Some may recall Julian’s willingness to “I really enjoyed the time I spent at be actively involved in school activities, College, in particular working with Dr including dressing-up for the Middle Pauline Turner, Dr Hugh Seward, Mrs School Productions. We are pleased

56 Ad Astra Issue No 139 50 years of the Stuart Laidlaw Memorial Pool CAROLINE STOK, ARCHIVIST

On the grounds of Middle School, there is a pool with a very special story – The Stuart Laidlaw Memorial Pool, generously donated by the Laidlaw family following the tragic death of their son.

In 1969, Stuart Laidlaw, a young boy It was opened a few months later on One such boy was Stuart’s brother, from Lismore, started as a boarder at The 30 October 1970, allowing swimming Andrew Laidlaw, who attended the Geelong College in Form 1. activities to become ‘a regular part of the school from 1974-1979. daily life of the school.’ According to the 1977 edition of Pegasus, Now in it’s 50th year, the Stuart Laidlaw he was ‘an active and thoughtful boy, he The pool quickly became the most Memorial Pool, as predicted in 1970, has made friends amongst both the staff and popular place at the Preparatory School, indeed been enjoyed by generations boys, establishing himself as a capable as well as being the envy of the Senior of students at the Preparatory School student within the classroom as well as School boys. and Middle School. A fitting memorial to actively enjoying outdoor activities.’ Stuart Laidlaw and his family’s legacy at In his annual report of 1972, Preparatory the school. Swimming, it seemed, was something School Headmaster, Mr Watson said: of particular interest to Stuart. Pegasus “The Stuart Laidlaw Memorial Pool in its notes that he had begun to show talent in first year has proven to be a wonderful the sport. addition to the School. The physical education classes used it ‘non-stop’ But during Stuart’s second year of throughout February and March with College, tragedy struck. the largest number ever of Swimming Following a road accident at Easter in Certificates gained.” 1970, Stuart Laidlaw passed away at just 12 years of age. “It has been a great inspiration The College community grieved his loss, to all who are associated with and spoke fondly of the popular student. the Preparatory School to see ‘We at the Prep. School are better for how an event of great sadness having known him: we remember him has been used to bring benefit with affection and with pride.’ to future generations of boys. In a generous tribute to their son Stuart’s parents, Charles and Patricia Laidlaw, – Pegasus of December 1970 Stuart Laidlaw donated a 25m pool to The College. Lab-grown ‘mini-kidneys’ with lifesaving potential

CHELSEA MATHESON, ALUMNI RELATIONS AND EVENTS MANAGER Dr Tom Forbes (OGC 1999) is a Paediatric Nephrologist at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne. Tom balances medicine and science in his career. In addition to specialising in the treatment of kidney disorders in children, Tom is a Clinician Scientist at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI).

In a research lab at Melbourne’s Basically, Tom takes samples of a and discover new genes for previously Murdoch Children’s Research Institute patient’s blood or skin cells, turns them undiagnosed kidney disease. (MCRI) in Melbourne, Tom Forbes is into stem cells and then turns those stem The next step of the research is exciting. doing some truly amazing things. cells into mini kidneys in a dish.

He is part of a team that are growing The model enables him to learn more “I am about to start a project that will kidney organoids (essentially ‘mini- about the biological mechanisms of screen thousands of potential treatments kidneys’) to develop tailored treatments human disease. More importantly, to using an individual’s mini-kidneys in for sufferers of inherited kidney disease. develop avenues to new treatments order to find the best treatment for them.

58 Ad Astra Issue No 139 “Many of the diseases are sufficiently rare that it’s very difficult to find enough patients to perform traditional clinical trials, so this is a new approach.”

It’s called ‘Personalised Therapeutics’,” it. Tom used his experience to focus his patients, but potentially those suffering Tom said. direction and found paediatrics. from rare diseases all over the world. The team’s research is particularly “I applied to the Royal Children’s And he enjoys what he does. important as human-based clinical trials Hospital to start my training and got a “Medicine is a varied and dynamic are not always an option. job. From there I really fell in love with the career. There are so many directions place and was sold,” he said. “Many of the diseases are sufficiently it can take including management, rare that it’s very difficult to find enough During a three-year stint in the UK while research, education, commercial patients to perform traditional clinical his wife, Beth, completed a Post-Doctoral enterprise and/or pure clinical practice. trials, so this is a new approach,” Tom Fellowship, Tom worked at some of the “It is a demanding job, though. It is often said. country’s most well-known hospitals all-consuming, competitive and one will – including Addenbrooke’s Hospital The road to Tom’s career in medicine frequently find themselves working long in Cambridge, Birmingham Children’s began way back at The Geelong College. hours, often without pay, in pursuit of Hospital and Nottingham Queen’s Though Tom was always interested in their next career goal. Medical Centre – before returning home pursuing a health science career, he tried to Australia in 2013. “But I love it. I’m not sitting at a desk all his hand at ‘everything’ along the way. day and no two patients are the same, so After he completed his specialist training, “One of my fondest College memories I’m constantly on my toes and problem Tom looked to undertake a lab-based was rowing with the Muckies in 1998-9,” solving,” Tom said. PhD, but didn’t have a lot of success Tom said. finding a project he was interested in. When human lives are involved, the After losing their coach to illness, the stakes could never be higher. “It is rare to walk out of specialist medical team was at a loss, eventually falling training and into a full-time purely clinical “I get a real high when I successfully help under the stewardship of Richard ‘Murph’ position. Medical specialists often have a young adult navigate a personal social Murphy. to find multiple avenues to build their dilemma with their chronic illness, but “It turned out Murph was exactly what careers,” he said and then I’ll come crashing down to a we needed and through some somewhat very sick child. But everything fell into place for Tom, unorthodox and often hilarious coaching when he attended a conference and “Sometimes I have to put the medical practices he managed to bring us watched Prof. Melissa Little present her theory to one side, and just be there for together pretty quickly. field-disrupting work of regenerating their family. “Looking back it was a really empowering kidney tissue from reprogrammed human “I really value the life perspective I get by experience and ultimately I had a huge stem cells. being openly invited, so often, into the amount of fun with an unlikely bunch Lab-grown ‘mini-kidneys’ “Looking at a living human kidney tissue most critical points in the lives of others.” of blokes, many of whom I probably grown essentially from scratch was wouldn’t have interacted with much at all From the classrooms of The Geelong something that at that time, nobody in had we not bonded as ‘Muckies’.” College to Monash University, to England the audience thought would ever be and back to the RCH in Melbourne. with lifesaving potential Despite enjoying performing arts and possible,” said Tom. Tom’s story is a fascinating insight into a rowing, Tom knew his future was in In serendipitous turn of events, Melissa career combining medicine and science. health science. was moving her laboratory from Brisbane “The classroom was where I felt most to the MCRI, upstairs from RCH in comfortable – especially with maths and Melbourne, and she was looking for PhD science,” he said. students. Initially considering radiography and His application was successful, and Tom bioengineering, Tom eventually settled started the full-time position in 2016 – on medicine. He completed a Bachelor of with no scientific experience whatsoever. Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery at Monash “They literally had to teach me how to Clayton. use a pipette! His first year out of university was quite “I’m very lucky to be part of such a driven confronting. and high-functioning team.” “My intern year was very busy, I often felt Working in both medicine and science, under-supported,” he said Tom is in a unique position to use his But his less-than-inspiring year didn’t research to, hopefully, make discoveries An organoid kidney created by the Murdoch tarnish his love for medicine – it fuelled that will impact the lives of not just his Children's Research Institute.

Ad Astra Issue No 139 59 Above from left: The 1961 party building the cairn. The dedication ceremony. Smith of Dunesk Mission CAROLINE STOK, ARCHIVIST The Geelong College and its Exploration Society have a long history with outback Australia, from treks exploring the landscape and donations made to local communities. In 1961 the Exploration Society visited the Smith of Dunesk Mission to honour the work of the mission’s pioneers, including one of the College’s own leaders.

The Smith of Dunesk Mission was connections led to the Exploration A party of 24, including 22 students, set founded at Beltana, South Australia Society setting their sights on Beltana out for the Flinders Ranges in May 1961. in 1894 as a base for the traveling and the Flinders Ranges in 1961. The group stayed at Beltana Station Presbyterian mission across northern where half the group built the memorial South Australia. The name comes from “This being the centenary year it cairn while the rest of the group went its benefactor, Lady Henrietta Smith was decided that the activity of the on day trips. The cairn was unveiled by (1782-1871) of “Dunesk” Lasswade, Exploration Society for the May holidays College staff member GC Robertson, Scotland. should be one which linked it with the during a short service. past, as well as one which fulfilled Rev. Sir FW Rolland, who served as the ideals of the Society by means of After the cairn dedication they trekked The Geelong College Principal from strenuous activity in the open air and from Angorichina Hostel to Wilpena 1920-1945, started his ministry career by observation of our native flora and Pound and Wilpena Chalet, and climbed as the mission agent from 1905 to 1908. fauna. With this threefold aim in mind, St Mary’s Peak. During his tenure, the Rolland family discussions were held with the Rev. J. F. sponsored a deaconess and trained McKay, the Superintendent of the A.I.M., Maps of the country with sufficient detail nurse to expand the mission work. and he suggested that we assist with a for accurate navigation are not available long range plan to establish a memorial The mission provided health and and due to the dryness of the season to pioneers in the outback regions of most of the creeks were without water. pastoral services, becoming the Australia. This set the wheels in motion foundation for the Australian Inland for the planning for the erection of a Both of these factors turned what should Mission (AIM, established 1912) and the memorial cairn at Beltana in South have been a pleasant two and a half day Royal Flying Doctor Service (established Australia.” hike into a long, dry struggle. 1928). - Ad Astra, November 1961 Rolland’s experience at Beltana and - Ad Astra, November 1961 the College’s Presbyterian Church

60 Ad Astra Issue No 139 The legacy of Rolland and the 1961 group remains to this day. In 2006 the Exploration Society returned to Beltana. A group of students hiked the Flinders Ranges and finished the expedition with a trip to the memorial cairn. The group cleaned up the cairn, remembering the students who had come before them. In 2020, the memorial plaque was refurbished through the dedication of Chris Ward and sponsored by the The 1961 Exploration Society expedition. College. Unveiling the plaque has been hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Flinders Ranges party 12-29 May 1961

Derek Berney Guy Gregg Ross Paton Max Cameron David Leslie Graham Peace M Ross Campbell Kenneth MacLean John Read David Dennis Peter Mann Campbell Seward Peter Dobie Alastair McDonald William Troedel Roger Douglas Ian McLean Donald Urquhart Ian Falk Stephen Miles Malcolm Florence Bruce Mulligan

The 2006 Exploration Society expedition. Ad Astra Issue No 139 61 Our home-grown American Football star

EMMA CHANDLER, PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR

When Tom Troeth (OGC 2020) purchased a souvenir gridiron football whilst on a family holiday in America, he had no idea what it would lead to.

“I brought it home, threw it around with mates, and thought – ‘this is a lot of fun!’” he said. A keen AFL footballer while he was here at the College, Tom has now traded his footy boots for the shoulder pads and silky jerseys of American football. It’s led to an adventure that’s seen the 18 year old fly half-way around the world to make Minnesota his new home – during the American school term, at least. But his love of the game started right here in Geelong. “I decided to give American football a go, so I joined Geelong Buccaneers in the Victorian gridiron league.” Tom found the transition from AFL to gridiron to be an interesting challenge. “Basic skills transferred over, but ultimately, they’re two vastly different sports – many new skills to learn, and the rules are entirely different,” Tom said. So Tom immersed himself in the world of gridiron, upskilling and learning all he could about the game. A few years on, he made what would become an important decision. “I decided I wanted to take playing gridiron further, if I could. Which meant a move to America. Inspired by the journey of fellow Old Collegian, Euan Spikers (OGC 2018), who had followed a similar path, Tom set about making his dream a reality. “I spoke to my parents first, and they were really supportive. Together, we made contact

62 Ad Astra Issue No 139 with IAM360 (International Athlete “There’s no recess and we only have 20 “It’s not a bad thing, though, it ensures Management and development). minutes for lunch, which is served in the everyone works hard.” cafeteria. After lunch, it’s directly back to Our home-grown “It all moved pretty quickly from that Tom is fortunate to have a close support class – no time spent outside.” point. They put me in contact with schools network, both at home in Australia, and in in the US, I supplied my academic grades But Tom’s day doesn’t end as the school the US. and video highlights from local football bell rings. On top of his academic “I’m lucky. Mum has a few friends over games. One month later, I received an commitments, he plays gridiron for the St American Football star here who bring Tim Tams and things back offer from St Croix,” Tom said. Croix Crusaders – his school’s team. sometimes. I miss Aussie food. Seven months later, he was on a plane So, after formal classes finish for the day, “I also miss my family and Australian bound for America. football begins. friends during the term. I have also made “The move was a big deal – I was only “Training runs for about two hours every some great friends over here, though. 16! The whole thing was a bit of a culture afternoon, with two or three weights Tom isn’t sure what the future holds for shock,” he said sessions in addition to that during the him just yet. He recently dipped a toe in playing season,” Tom said. Tom likened his initial days in American to the waters of varsity soccer, which he has ‘living in a movie’. Games are played on Friday nights, then enjoyed. video footage of the game is analysed. “It was exactly like the scenes from films “I don’t have any plans set in stone for life I’d grown up with. The highschool, the “We watch it through to see what worked, after high school. I’ve still got a full year to people, I even have friends who live in what didn’t, and what needs to be work that out, which I’m grateful for. the huge white houses in neighborhoods tweaked for the next game.” “Right now, my plan is to play out my with deep, rollings lawns – exactly like the Although sport is a huge part of school senior year and see where it takes me. street scenes you see in movies. life for Tom, he cannot afford to neglect “My original goal was to continue with my The weather, too, took some getting used his school work. football and pursue it at a college level, to. “Academics and sports are closely tied - if ideally somewhere a bit warmer...maybe “It gets pretty chilly here, down to you get a detention or grades aren’t up, California. But we’ll see! negative 30C! That said, everything here you aren’t allowed to play int the game “I’m just really grateful for the opportunity is set up to caters to the conditions. that week. I’ve been given, and I plan to continue Buildings are more insulated, the clothing making the most of it.” available in stores is warmer than we’re used to in Australia.” Although he knew gridiron was America’s national sport, Tom was surprised by just how passionate people were in their support of the game. “The fans are incredibly devoted to their teams. Even at a high school level, the weekly games are played in a full-on stadium, complete with packed bleachers. The intensity of it is just very different to home.” Tom has noticed significant differences when it comes to school, too, having recently completed year 11 at Minnesota’s St Croix Academy. “The school follows a vertical learning model. Students are grouped into classes by ability, not age. For example, in last year’s class, I had students from year 9 right up to year 11,” Tom said. The school timetable,, was also something of a surprise, with the American school day commencing at 7.45am and concluding at 3.10pm. Above left – Tom and his family: Parents Marnie and Richard, and brothers Will and Jack. Above right – Tom in his team uniform. Ad Astra Issue No 139 63 Western medicine in Nepal REILLY EDDY (OGC 2016) In December 2019, 12 other student doctors and I, from Monash University of various year levels, travelled to Nepal to provide medical aid. This was preceded by many months of organisation and fundraising within student-led organisation TeamMed, as well as a donation from the OGCA.

In planning our trip, we looked at what goal to raise $1,000 per student, which the equivalent of a slightly more highly- issues the Nepali had presented with was greater then our budget however trained nurse than standard for Nepal. in previous years and used that to each year we strived to create a surplus A Nepali doctor joined the trek along formulate what medicines and other of funds as to eventually provide a with four Nepali nurses who helped with equipment we would buy or acquire longer-lasting means of health care, such translation. through donations. We set an ambitious as through infrastructure. At the village, we ran a five-day, three The journey started in Kathmandu where room, medical clinic with a pharmacy we spent two days packing medicines that we manned as 13 students, four and other equipment to be carried to nurses and a doctor. a remote village in the Lower Everest region called Bhakanje. The village was extremely busy, seeing more than 100 patients between three We took a full day bus ride into the consulting rooms for the day. Patients region before we set out on foot to trek often queued for hours to be seen and for four days into the village, which until other patients arrived quite late in the recently was inaccessible by car. evening having trekked for 6+ hours to Along the way we summited Pikey Peak, see us. which we were told was only a hill, not a I found the experience of running the mountain, as by Nepal’s lofty standards it medical clinics challenging, as at times only reaches an altitude of 4,065 metres. there was a gap between what we It was situated on the first pathway from could diagnose and meaningfully treat. Kathmandu to Everest base camp, and Chronic diseases such as diabetes, famously Edmund Hillary said it was his hypertension and arthritis require a lot of favourite view of Everest. time and effort to manage in Australia, The remoteness of the village meant and we could initiate some therapies that many of its people had no way of but ultimately we would be gone soon seeking medical care from a doctor, with enough and meaningful, sustained a health outpost in the village run by treatment would be difficult to attain. 64 Ad Astra Issue No 139 I found the experience of running the medical clinics challenging, as at times there was a gap between what we could diagnose Update October 2020 and meaningfully treat. COVID-19 in Nepal As of early October 2020, Nepal has Whatever medications we had left over, The Nepali people are a lovely people nearly had 90,000 cases and 554 we left to the health outpost, along who are generally exceedingly happy reported deaths from COVID-19. They with scripts for the patients to return for and kind in the face of all the trials and are a vulnerable people who have such repeats. On the other hand, we employed difficulties they face due to their harsh poor infrastructure that seeking care is preventive health where possible as to yet beautiful geography. There was not often-times nearly impossible. The long slow or avoid the development of those much of a cultural barrier to overcome to lasting effects of the pandemic will be aforementioned conditions and more. provide care, as they were very trusting economic, as their tourism business of our Western medicine and thankful for We saw 80-100 school aged children who accounts for 7.5% of their GDP and what help we provided. Their efforts to were perfect candidates for this type of supports over 1 million jobs. be seen in our clinics was amazing and medical care which would hopefully have humbling. long lasting effects.

Ad Astra Issue No 139 65 Farming in 2020 MIKE HOWELL, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS The Wootton family

Carbon sense makes economic sense. How the Wootton family’s environmentally friendly approach to farming has benefitted everyone.

‘Where can I buy your beef and lamb?’ Gippsland and 200 head of sheep, then “We need to plan for a future climate their children came along. In 1996 with that will be more variable and extreme, This was the question on everyone’s lips four children under 6 years of age they which is one of the hardest things we are when the nation was introduced to Mark made the decision to purchase land and dealing with at the moment.” Wootton and Eve Kantor’s farm, via an relocate to Hamilton. episode of an ABC television series in Climate change is an enormous issue August of this year. The moment it aired, On their new farm, Mark and Eve wanted for the agricultural sector, with the the couple were inundated with email to scale up production with a more weather’s volatility having the ability enquiries. They did not anticipate the intensive farming approach. However, to ‘make or break’ a year through rain response they would receive and were their shared passion for environmental and drought. The Wootton’s long-term completely taken aback. issues meant that they needed to success and resilience is built upon find a way to integrate their livestock constant reinvestment, innovation, and “Even Supermarkets contacted us!” Mark production and agroforestry with good farming practice. Over-farmed, over said. environmental sustainability. grazed land leads to nutrient deficient Their property, Jigsaw Farms, was feed, expensive supplementary feeding They adopted a multi-layered approach, showcased in an episode of ‘Fight and low stocking rates and therefore low utilising research and technology to for Planet A: Our Climate Challenge’, profitability. ultimately achieve carbon neutrality in and the reason for viewer-interest is 2011. “Growing grass and managing it well is understandable. Despite Australia being core to our business,” Mark said. home to some 41,800 beef farms, and Today, Jigsaw Farms is a 3300-hectare 31,972 lamb farms, Mark and Eve can lay grazing operation with 25,000 sheep and To assist in realising their goal of carbon claim to something only few other farms 600 cattle. With Mark being a geographer neutrality, a 2-year study was undertaken in Australia can – their beef and lamb is by training, and as environmentally- by the University of Melbourne to collect carbon neutral. conscious farmers by practice, Mark and and measure robust data. It found that Eve have designed their farm system by running livestock on the land, Jigsaw The family have been involved in farming with an eye on 2030 climate projections. Farms produces over 5000 tonnes of for over 25 years now. They started CO2E, mainly in the form of Methane, out small with a sheep property in every year.

66 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Planting trees goes some way to different. Jigsaw Farms employs what 10 years, as consumers and export counter this impact. Not only do trees Mark calls ‘a great team of people’. They markets themselves become more reduce the impact of carbon, they also now employ six full time staff, along aware - demanding evidence of quality provide shelter for lambing, and assist with students from Marcus Oldham of production backed by environmental to revegetate waterways. Additionally, Agricultural College throughout the credentials. well managed pastures contribute to an year. Contractors are utilised to keep For now, where can you buy carbon adaptive and resilient farming system. machinery ownership to a minimum. neutral lamb and beef? Unfortunately for Since establishing Jigsaw Farms, Mark “We are four-legged-based not rubber- Ad Astra readers, Jigsaw Farms doesn’t and Eve have planted over 600,000 trees tyre-based.” sell direct to the public, but the next across 600 hectares, covering basically generation of Jigsaw Farmers are keenly As the farm has grown so too have 20% of the property. During the coming focusing on this aspect of the business. the children, with the youngest two Spring, they plan to plant a further Stay tuned! >> becoming boarders here at The Geelong 15,000 trees. Melbourne University College. Gracie (OGC 2014) is now a research found that the trees planted on nurse at the Royal Children’s Hospital, the property have contributed to a 48% while Charlie (OGC 2016) is studying reduction in emissions by Jigsaw Farms Agricultural Science at Adelaide between 2000 and 2014, and a 70% University. Their two elder daughters, reduction to 2020. Hannah and Nina, have also gone on However, the planting of trees is not the to achieve career success. Hannah only secret to environmental success. is a lawyer and a legal reporter for the Emissions were also lowered through Financial Review and Nina is completing feed efficiencies. By utilising electronic a doctorate in marine biology. The identification, Mark and Eve measure passion for environment and agriculture the growth per animal. They aim to use running strong in their family. the captured data to optimise the herd’s And what a legacy Mark and Eve have feed content, lowering the amount of created for their children. methane produced per head. In addition to raising their family, they Electricity usage was also scrutinised, have built and maintained a farming with solar panels and pumps installed business that not only aligns with their across the property, and inefficient values, but is a success. In doing so, technology replaced with more efficient they have proved a very important point - electrical pumps. As a bonus, by more intense farming can still be kind to reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, the environment. Mark and Eve halved their electricity costs. When looking ahead to the future, Mark is optimistic but worries about food But success such as Mark and Eve security and the growth in demand. have achieved would not be possible He believes farmers will become more through innovation alone. The people conscious of measuring and minimising you hire can be the making or breaking their carbon footprint over the next of a business, and in farming it is no

Ad Astra Issue No 139 67 >> The Bowker family

MIKE HOWELL, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS Nestled on Victoria’s Shipwreck Coast, in the town of Princetown, you will find the farm known as ‘Kangaroobie’ – said to mean ‘kangaroo resting place’. With seven generations of the Bowker family calling it home over the past 179 years, it is fair to say that farming is in their blood.

The Kangaroobie story began in 1841 only two survivors following the sinking Matt and Sophie manage over 1000 when Christopher Bowker arrived in of the Loch Ard in 1878. hectares of farmland where they graze Australia from England with his wife and 900 Simmental – Angus cattle, along With care and hospitality being such a family. They built a diverse farm which with sheep, pigs and piglets and ‘a merry part of their family values, it seems fitting produced cheese, and farmed turkeys, band of dogs’. that – a couple of generations later - the pigs, sheep and beef cattle. family chose to diversify their operations Kangaroobie also offers a popular They also bore witness to the and offer large-group accommodation. on-farm school camp experience. happenings of our harsh Australian Commencing in 1978, the Bowkers now Fast-forward to 2020, and Kangaroobie coastline, as the ‘Shipwreck Coast’ host a different school group every week is now in the capable hands of the tragically lived up to its name. The of the year, sleeping up to 190 in dorms, sixth generation of Bowkers, Matt and family stepped in to help survivors of employing 14 staff and offering hands-on Sophie. Their two eldest sons Lachy nearby wrecks where they could - on agricultural activities. and Christopher are current boarders one occasion they accommodated ten at College, with youngest son, Charlie, “The cattle calve twice a year. They survivors for months after the event. They starting next year. are well cared for, and are part of the also assisted Eva Carmichael, one of the activities in the school camp, with

68 Ad Astra Issue No 139 students feeding them so they’re relaxed, Ever conscious of their carbon footprint, Melbourne and Geelong every fortnight. with quiet temperaments.,” said Matt Kangaroobie is taking part in a local This, in turn, increased brand presence Landcare soil carbon trial to measure in the market. Matt and Sophie also specialise in the benefits of soil health on production. beef production, under the name They also diversified their product range. They use compost (hay and manure) on ‘Kangaroobie Meats’. In addition to their variety of beef cuts, the land and benefit from over 950mm Matt and Sophie created a range of “It was actually through the school of rain per annum. They also enlisted a ready-to-eat meals such as lasagna, camps that the meat business initially local abattoir to process and package curry and gourmet pies. They have began five years ago. People loved the their beef to minimise food miles. also added a ‘From the Pantry’ range taste of grass-fed beef and the fact that Innovation is something Matt welcomes, consisting of Sophie’s ‘Homemade no pesticides, herbicides or hormones and he is constantly looking for new and Kitchen Muesli’ and ‘Forage Fresh are used on the farm. That makes them better practices. Gnocchi’. really appealing to consumers,” Matt said “One of the great things about running With their revamped business model Farming at Kangaroobie has always the school camp is that the farm can rolled out, the enquiries began to roll been a family affair. The boys have grown become something of a research in and their sales quadrupled. Matt up helping out on the farm, a tradition project, so I can try different things to believes their success was partly due to which has continued through their demonstrate to the students.” the changes they had made, but also boarding years here at College. When believes it was simply the right time to the boys return home to the farm during In pre-COVID-19 times, business was strike. the school holidays, it’s ‘all hands on simple. The school camp was thriving, deck’ for the task of pregnancy-checking as was the farm, and once a month “Part of the impetus is that people are the heifers. Kangaroobie Meats delivered pre-orders becoming more aware of what they are to clients around Melbourne, Geelong eating, where it comes from and how it “I'm not too sure how comfortable and the surrounding regions (including has been raised,” he said. teenage boys are with this process but to schools). They also sold their produce at least it's a lot less invasive than it used The forced disruption of COVID-19 at local farmers markets. to be. In the past the vet used to wear a restrictions hasn’t been an entirely bad ‘loooong’ glove and have to insert their However, when COVID-19 restrictions thing for Matt and Sophie – they’ve hand to check the cow’s uterus. These forced the closure of their school camp ridden the wild wave that has been the days it is all done through ultrasound - a operations for most of 2020, it took year 2020, and found new success for lot more comfortable for both cow and with it a major source of revenue. Matt their business along the way. However, teenage boy!” Matt said. and Sophie were forced to adapt and it’s safe to say they’re hoping for a much reassess their meat-production business calmer year ahead in 2021. As an environmental science teacher, model. Matt was keen to follow a sustainable farming ethos. He is also passionate The first step was to shake up their about animal welfare, meaning much delivery service. They joined ‘Click Looking for Kangaroobie planning had to go into Kangaroobie for Vic’, a Visit Victoria campaign to beef? Meats to make it a reality. encourage consumers to buy local You can find it online at: products, and began offering boxed kangaroobiemeats.com deliveries to consumers around

Ad Astra Issue No 139 69 Hair, babies & ‘The Good Hustle.’

NICOLE ROACHE, MARKETING MANAGER

Behind the great hair, Phoebe Simmonds (OGC 2004) is a pocket rocket running two thriving businesses, ‘The Blow’, a national brand of blow-dry salons, and ‘the memo’, an online baby retailer, out of Melbourne.

After completing her VCE in 2004, love. They know that when they ask for job done, but it was in the bottom of a Phoebe completed a Commerce Degree ‘Rich Girl Hair’ or ‘The Mane Event’ they basement of a train station and there at Melbourne University. Following that know it is going to be exactly what they were pictures of Korean pop stars on she began to craft her skills working for receive, whether they are in Brisbane or the mirror. They were delivering the brands such as Mecca, Nude Cosmetics Melbourne. product, but they weren’t delivering an and Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy in experience. London and Singapore. We spoke Our prices are competitive. I don’t What has inspired your vision and why? to Phoebe about the brands she has believe that beautiful hair should be created and what they stand for. a luxury, it should be something that My business training with Louis Vuitton women can invest in to feel polished Moet Hennessey really drilled into me What makes ‘The Blow’ stand out from the crowd? and powerful and it needs to be the power of brand and brand DNA, and something they can include in their being able to stand for something to There are a few things that make ‘The lifestyle. stand out. Blow’ special. The first is a convenient location. We look for a place that’s on Finally, we wanted to create a cool With ‘The Blow’ it has been my own a woman’s way to work or that she can place that creates a community and experience that has driven me. I am get to in her lunchtime, somewhere that that reflects where our guests are at in the customer, I have hair that’s difficult fits with her weekly routine. life. There are blow dry bars all around to manage, and when I was in my Second is a consistent service. One Australia and the world, and there are twenties in important jobs, I only ever thing a lot of women experience when blow dry bars in CBDs but they’re not felt polished and powerful when I had they have a blow dry is that it is difficult necessarily places you want to be. I a professional blow dry. I am so much to communicate exactly what they want. used to get a blow dry most weeks at more passionate about delivering this We have illustrations and signature a place that was close to my work in brand and product because of what it styles that people get to know and Sydney. It was cheap, and it got the means to me.

70 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Why ‘the memo’? It’s a departure Share the Dignity is not a sexy charity, from beauty? but period poverty is something that all If you had told me five years ago, I my guests are interested in and want to would co-own a baby retailer I would eradicate. It gives our guests another never have believed you. reason to feel good about coming to us. When a friend was pregnant, she had a group of friends who circulated a It’s the same with ‘the memo’, standing list of everything you need for a baby. for things like supporting other women “Get this, don’t bother with this, you and supporting our community can hire this, borrow this or you’ll need means that we have brands that mean ten of these…” The only place that something. What advice would you give to she could get everything was from How has COVID-19 affected your people who have an idea but no a retailer like Baby Bunting, which businesses and what does the really wasn’t where she was in life or “Good Hustle” look like in COVID-19 idea how to make it happen? how she was shopping. We thought normal? there was an opportunity to create COVID-19 has really impacted ‘The There is no such thing as impostor syndrome. a one-stop baby and maternity edit Blow’, when we are able to open that didn’t sell hundreds of different again, we will have been closed in our Don’t buy into it, all it does is create your own glass ceiling. options of carriers, prams and muslin Melbourne boutique for 7 months. It is wraps because that can be incredibly incredibly difficult for momentum, it’s overwhelming to a new parent. We did difficult managing a team, and making Nothing will work unless you do. all the grunt work and put together a sure that everyone is going ok. The You have to back yourself and people list of the products that we know that brand will be fine, the business will be will feed off that energy and want to parents will need, use and love. fine, we have had government support, support you. but the uncertainty has been really The goal would be for a parent to go difficult. Do the unglamorous stuff. to ‘the memo’ and just add one of When you are first starting out there On the flip side, ‘the memo’ has been everything to the bag rather than having will be days, weeks, months, years, flying. It’s online and people are still to do the crazy amounts of research. perhaps a decade of working really having babies, perhaps even more so! You work with Share the Dignity and hard, packing boxes, unpacking St Kilda Mums, why is giving back The main thing I have learned this year boxes – doing unglamorous work to important? is surrendering. ‘Good Hustle’ is being get your foot in the door and get a In 2020 it’s not enough to just deliver flexible, working hard, challenging sense of how business works. a product. People want to invest in a yourself, staying positive and leaning luxury aspirational brand that reflects on others where you need to. We just Say yes and be flexible with your who they are and the kind of values need to be able to go with the flow and dream. that they share. The mission of ‘The do it with grace, grit and determination. Don’t be fixed on an exact path Blow’ is to lift women up and I think it’s That’s what ‘Good Hustle’ is all about because if you say yes it will open up important to use our voice to lift women so I’m hoping that we will be able to experiences that you may never even up, not just those who are do that in even more meaningful ways knew existed. our customers. in 2021.

Ad Astra Issue No 139 71 The OGS Clubrooms in 1968 and 2011; Cal Wood OGS leading the team out of the Clubrooms at Como Park approx 2008 Como Year 12...Where to next? Park! NICK BETTS (OGC 2002) After a year in 2020 unlike any other, the question for many people is ‘where to next?’ Well the answer to that question is: (as it has been for many Old Geelong Collegians over the years) the home of the Old Geelong Sporting Club: Como Park, South Yarra.

The Old Geelong Sporting Club (also Over the following decades a number and part of the Ogs family as soon as known as the Ogs) is home to four men's of further improvements were made, they step through the doors. football teams (including an Under 19s), significantly opening up the upstairs With training on Tuesday and Thursday two women's football teams, a cricket and balcony area, to provide improved nights during football season, you team, netball teams and an annual tennis catering and viewing areas. The can now find a mix of Old Geelong competition. The Ogs have called Como clubroom balcony is now widely Park home since 1960. considered to be the best viewing Collegians, Old Geelong Grammarians and a whole range of other friends and Como Park is set in a spectacular platform for watching amateur football family from across Victoria and interstate parkland on the banks of the Yarra River, in Melbourne. In 2011 the ground floor enjoying being part of this great club and with long sloping hills surrounding each level was completely updated with a its unrivalled facilities. side of the oval providing an unrivalled lift installed to the upstairs, where a natural amphitheatre to watch the renovated kitchen was installed and We look forward to welcoming the school football. more space created to host a variety of leavers of 2020, as well as all other Old events throughout the year. After the first season in 1960 with fairly Geelong Collegians back down to Como limited facilities, a second level to the The clubrooms have hosted premiership Park in 2021. clubroom pavilion was constructed, celebrations, best and fairest nights, Follow the Ogs on Instagram (Old but rooms and facilities could still countless Thursday night after-training Geelong Football Club) or visit the be described, if one forgives the dinners, committee meetings, social website at www.oldgeelong.com.au to contradiction of terms, as a collection of events and have always been a place get in touch and get involved. dungeons. where everyone is made to feel welcome

72 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Albert Bell Club news

PETER LAWSON (OGC 1990), PRESIDENT, ALBERT BELL CLUB 2020 Colin Carstairs Bell David M. Caithness Award Pathway Bursaries Our good friend, fellow oarsman and supporter of College rowing, David Caithness Each year the Albert Bell Club awards died suddenly in July 2019. David was a School Prefect, Captain of Boats and won a select number of bursaries to assist an extraordinary three consecutive Head of the Rivers! David was a foundation new school leavers to continue rowing member of the Albert Bell Club and in more recent years our hard-working Club after school. The bursaries assist with Secretary. the costs associated with rowing, After David’s passing there was an anonymous donation to the Australian Sport such as club memberships, seat fees Foundation to create an award in honour of David. and rowing uniforms. Recipients are The award for Most Outstanding Clubwoman and Clubman will be awarded often involved in rowing at club level annually to two rowers that best display the following attributes: Dedication, and some of them have competed Respectful, Helpful, Commitment, Punctuality and Perseverance. throughout the world! During the Valedictory Ceremony in In addition to being: November, five 2020 Colin Carstairs - Passionate about the sport of rowing Bell Pathway Bursaries for school - Reliable and committed to their crew and The Geelong College Boat Club leavers were awarded. The successful Como applicants were: Amy Thornton; - Helpful and encouraging to others Jack Grainger; Douglass Bell; Olivia - An inspiration to others through their actions Mathias; Tessa Longden and Geordie Park! The winners of the inaugural 2019 David M. Caithness Award were announced Whittakers. Congratulations to all these at Valedictory Ceremony in November. Congratulations to Olivia Mathias and recipients and we wish them well in Douglass Bell! their future rowing endeavours!

Ad Astra Issue No 139 73 Farewells MOORE, Roger Leon PILLOW, Harry Vincent (1939-2020) OGC 1951 (1928-2020) OGC 1941 Roger attended College from 1949 and began a lifelong passion for Harry Vincent Pillow, retired Senior rowing. He was senior coach at Research Scientist Department of Monash and Victoria Universities, Defence, passed away 4 July 2020 aged winning multiple Intervarsity and 92 years. An electrical engineer he Kings Cups. He then joined the spent much of his adventurous working Adelaide University Boat Club, life in research and computing with the coached at Pembroke School and Royal Australian Navy. was a national selector. Harry first commenced training at BELL, Richard Maxwell ‘Max’ the Gordon Institute as a mechanical (1932-2015) OGC 1941 engineer before joining Kodak Research Max Bell was born to William and Laboratories in 1947. He later joined Elise of Meredith and studied at the electrical engineering branch of the College from 1944-1948. He Australian Newsprint Mills in 1949 as went on to practice drafting and a draughtsman, a career move which engineering. He married Carol encouraged him to return to the Gordon to find himself immediately sent to Palm and they had three children. to train as an Electrical Engineer. In Beach, Florida in the USA. This involved BARRETT, Newell Laroy 1954, he joined the Weapons Research him flying to the Bahamas every fortnight (1927-2020) OGC 1940 Establishment in South Australia and to obtain data from the deep undersea Newell boarded at College from commenced early work in computing. trench. He returned to Sydney in 1968 1941-1946. In 1946 he was During this period, he married Jocelyn to run the Exercise Analysis Section captain of the 1st VIII crew, Captain nee Nankivell and they had two sons. of the RANRL. He became involved in of Boats and Morrison House writing programs to reconstruct exercise He continued his research interests, Captain. A civil engineer, he was incidents between ships, submarines joining the Royal Australian Navy elected as a councillor at the City and aircraft and collecting data at sea. Research Laboratory (RANRL) in 1966 of Ballarat. He was married to Harry retired in 1988. Sheila and they had 13 children. CALVERT, Benjamin Neil (1968-2020) OGC 1986 GOLDSWORTHY, Graeme Lindsay AM Ben boarded at College from 1982. In 1985 he spent a year on (1936-2020) a Rotary exchange in America. Geelong restaurateur, tourism figure, He returned in 1986 to complete and stalwart of The Geelong College Year 12 where he was also Calvert community, Graeme Goldsworthy House Prefect and received an passed away 20 August 2020. Graeme English Merit Award. and wife Kerry’s children attended the CHEETHAM, Robin Hodges school and he was a strong supporter of (1931-2020) OGC 1946 the College and its ambitions. Robin boarded at College from Graeme’s sons played for the Old 1943. He served on the House Geelong Football Club and he of Guilds Committee and was became a great supporter of the club, awarded Morrison House Colours strengthening its connection to the for Rowing in 1949. Robin became College. He was a great advocate a farmer, opal miner and pilot. He for the club and made significant was married to Andy and they had contributions to its activities. In 2008 he In the 2000 Australia Day Honours a son. was made an Honorary Life Member. he became a Member of the Order of COUGLE, Barry Gifford F Australia (AM) for his service to the (1938-2018) OGC 1952 In the wider community Graeme was community, particularly through support Barry boarded at College from a prominent business figure. He was of programs providing employment and 1949. A strong footballer, in 1955 a founding director at Target Australia recreational opportunities for people he joined the 1st XVIII. He went on (1963-1973) which he left to establish with disabilities, and to the promotion to play with the Geelong Football Fisherman’s Pier. His interests in and development of regional tourism Club (1958-1959). He later moved hospitality led him to Geelong Otway and the hospitality industry. In the same with his family to Coffs Harbour, Tourism where he was chairman from year he received the Victoria Day Good working in land development and 1993-1997. Corporate Citizen Award. real estate.

74 Ad Astra Issue No 139 COX, Peter Linton MCCONNAN, Willis Alexander ‘Lex’ SYMONS, Wayne Henry Charles (1956-2019) OGC 1970 (1931-2019) OGC 1943 (1955-2020) OGC 1969 Peter studied at College for two Lex boarded at the College from Wayne studied at the College from years and was the Baseball team’s 1944, featuring on the Athletics 1967. In 1973 he entered the Royal vice-captain in 1973. After working and Relay teams. After school Lex Military College, Duntroon and later in Geelong for many years his family followed in his father’s footsteps, became a member of the Royal moved to Seymour where he later working as a bank officer in Victoria Australian Corps of Signals. Wayne owned an electrical store. Peter was for many years. He later moved to was married to Cherry and they had married to Christine (dec) and they Townsville. two daughters. had four children. MORRIS, Russell John WAINWRIGHT, John Chalwin DONNAN, Gregory Bruce (1944-2020) OGC 1957 (1939-2020) OGC 1953 (1951-2019) OGC 1966 Russell studied at College from John studied at College in 1956, Greg began at the College 1956-1959. He went on to work and during his short time was joint Preparatory School in 1964. In his at Cheetham Salt and later moved Boys Open Swimming Champion final year he was a member of the to his own business ventures. He and a member of the 1st XI and 3rd Cross Country team and received served on the Geelong Football XVIII teams. John later moved to Shannon House Athletics Colours. Club Board, Geelong Major Events Queensland, was married to Amanda He passed the Leaving exam in 6 Committee, and Geelong Amateur and they had two children. subjects and went on to pursue Football and Netball Club where he WALPOLE, Donald Horace tertiary studies. was also a premiership player and (1934-2019) OGC 1947 coach. HINCHLIFFE, David Donald began at College in 1946 (1939-2020) OGC 1953 MOUNTJOY, Harward Caleb and completed his Intermediate David started at the College (1930-2020) OGC 1946 Certificate in 1950. Following kindergarten in 1943. He won the ER Harward studied at College from school Donald would start farming Sparrow Cup (1954) and captained 1945-1948 before working with his with his wife Jean at Rosewhite the 1st XVIII team (1956). David father, Lawrie OGC 1909, on his near Myrtleford. He was a pilot and played in several local sports teams property near Hamilton. He later with his son Ron ran Holiday Air and in 1960 played for the Geelong moved to Maude and was married to Adventures. Football Club. David later moved Winifred, they had four sons who all to Queensland. He was married to attended the College. Judy and they had two children. PEETERS, Andrew Daniel KEEN, Michael Stuart (1975-2020) OGC 1993 (1948-2020) OGC 1961 Andrew studied at the College from Michael started at College in 1959. 1988, graduating Year 12 in 1993. He was a member of Coles House In McArthur House, he won House and the Swimming team. He went colours for tennis and basketball. on to study military engineering Andrew went study Commerce, and and served in the Australian Army, had a daughter. later working in consulting. He was SMITH, Russell Sinclair married and lived in Laos. (1936-2020) OGC 1949 KERR, Peter Clifton Sylvester Russell started at the College in 1948 (1945-2020) OGC 1958 and was Dux of his class in 1951. Peter boarded at the College from He would go on to work with the 1957, winning the Junior and Senior Commonwealth Bank before joining gymnastic prizes Chase Manhattan bank, Melbourne (1958, 1961). After completing his where he became Managing Leaving examination Peter went on Director. He was married to Margie to work on his family’s property at and they had two daughters. Willaura. He was married to Hilary and they had two children. STUBBS, Noel Maxwell (1939-2019) OGC 1953 MCCLURE, Benjamin Marc Noel studied at the College from (1989-2020) OGC 2007 1950. In 1957 he was on the 1st VXIII Ben started at College from Year 7 in team and 1st VIII crew. Noel studied 2002. A talented athlete he was in the a Bachelor of Commerce Please visit Athletics Team (Melb) and would go onto work in cutt.ly/obits2020 (2003, 2004, 2006), 1st XVIII Football accounting, IT and business. He for more details team (2004, 2006, 2007) and 1st was married to Julie Anne. Badminton team (2007). He received several Coles House Colours and College Football Honours. Ad Astra Issue No 139 75 Class of 2010 – 10 -Year Reunion

Digital reunions for 2020 Unfortunately, COVID-19 restrictions forced the cancellation of our in-person reunions this year. We instead celebrated digitally, putting together a video slideshow of photos for each cohort.

76 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Class of 2000 – 20 -Year Reunion

Ad Astra Issue No 139 77 Class of 1990 – 30 -Year Reunion

78 Ad Astra Issue No 139 Class of 1980 – 40 -Year Reunion

Ad Astra Issue No 139 79 Boutique boarding at a leading Victorian school.

Academic, Music and Boarding Scholarships for entry into 2022 now open. Challenge yourself, develop independence, excel academically, and make lifelong friends. Discover learning and life at The Geelong College www.geelongcollege.vic.edu.au or phone (03) 5226 3156. Be of COURAGE

80 Ad Astra Issue No 139