CELEBRATINGthe Journey

THE MAGAZINE OF THE CANBERRA GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL COMMUNITY ISSUE 104 30EDUCATING YEARS OF GIRLSTHE CHAPEL SINCE 19267 / WHAT 4 / 90TH MAKES ANNIVERSARY OUR ELC EXTRAORDINARY? CELEBRATIONS 10 /8 / 2018 TREADINGTHE GABRIEL THE FOUNDATION PATH TOGETHER – ENRICHING – ELC TO YEARTOMORROW 12 12 / THE 13 ROAD/ PASTORAL TO OXFORD CARE – 14 A /PATH SPOTLIGHTTO WELLBEING ON CREATIVE14 / POSITIVE AND PERFORMING EDUCATION AND ARTS LEARNING 20 / THROUGH PLAY 24 CONTENTS

FROM THE ACTING PRINCIPAL ...... 3

SCHOOL BOARD UPDATE...... 4

FROM THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD...... 5

A NEW JOURNEY...... 6

30 YEARS OF THE CHAPEL...... 7

THE EVOLUTION OF OUR ENVIRONMENT ...... 8

WHAT MAKES OUR ELC EXTRAORDINARY?...... 10

TREADING THE PATH TOGETHER – ELC TO YEAR 12...... 12

THE ROAD TO OXFORD...... 14

Above: Chair of the Gabriel Board, Mr David LEADING THE WAY IN GIRLS’ EDUCATION ...... 16 Holmesby at the ELC with his granddaughter, Olivia Lynch (front centre), joined by Year 12 students TOGETHER IN MUSIC – THE MUSIC ACADEMY...... 18 (clockwise from left) Ellen Thurlow, Rosie Schweizer and Emma Khoo . See pages 10–13 to read more about SPOTLIGHT ON CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS...... 20 the ELC and ten students’ journey to Year 12 . FROM THE PARENTS & FRIENDS ASSOCIATION...... 22 ISSUE 104, 2018 LETTER FROM A GRAMMARIAN...... 24 Published by Canberra Girls Grammar School NEWS FROM GRAMMARIANS ...... 25 Melbourne Avenue ARCHIVES ...... 34 Deakin ACT 2600 Australia

P: 02 6202 6400 F: 02 6273 2554

E: [email protected] www.cggs.act.edu.au

EDITORIAL Sally Wagnon

LAYOUT AND DESIGN FAD Studios

This issue of the Grammar Report celebrates the journey through our School and beyond.

Cover: Maria Tsiokantas (Year 12 Robertson) revisits the Early Learning Centre where she commenced her educational journey at Canberra Girls Grammar School in 2005 . She is pictured with current ELC students, playing in the sandpit, September 2018 .

2 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

FROM THE ACTING PRINCIPAL

FOLLOWING THE THEME OF THIS GRAMMAR REPORT, CELEBRATING THE JOURNEY, I THOUGHT IT APPROPRIATE TO REMIND READERS ABOUT THE SIGNIFICANT JOURNEY OF OUR FOUNDRESS, MOTHER EMILY AYCKBOWM – IT IS EXTRAORDINARY IN ITSELF.

Emily Harriet Elizabeth Ayckbowm (1836– From the earliest days after founding 1900), was determined to make a difference the Sisters of the Church, Mother Emily to the lives of those on the margins through was determined that the ‘great cause of education and equally determined to help education’ was to be their focus. Between rebuild her father’s church. To this end she 1870 and 1893 she built eight large schools founded the Church Extension Association for nearly 6,000 children. The schools (CEA) in 1864 and the Community of the were characterised by providing students Sisters of the Church in 1870. with a breakfast of either hot sweet tea or soup followed by a currant bun or pudding The CEA motto was Pro Ecclesia Dei – For the cooked in long tin cylinders. The ‘bun Church of God – which was later to become schools’ became renowned, not only for the motto of all Schools of the Order. Led “We must make our schools the practical response to the hunger of the by Emily, the followers, or subscribers, of poorest of poor children, but also for the and our teaching respected… CEA were trying to raise funds to refurbish quality education provided by the Sisters. and for this we must also her father’s (Reverend Frederick Ayckbowm) Mother Emily noted, “We must make our Holy Trinity Church in Chester, England. be diligent learners.” schools and our teaching respected…and for After realising that to teach or nurse the this we must also be diligent learners.” Mother Emily poor she would need a community of like- minded women, Emily became the first She also believed that to achieve education’s Novice of the Community of the Sisters of object, joy must be brought into a student’s in Hobart, Melbourne and Perth and the Church in a ceremony held in a small life, the ‘bun schools’ should value the eventually in Canberra via St Gabriel’s in Chapel in Kilburn, London. development of character and there should Waverley, Sydney. At the request of the be no elitism in schools. The Right Reverend Dr Radford, Bishop of Sisters were the first Anglican Goulburn, St Gabriel’s was moved to Glebe Order to obtain certificates as House (The Old Rectory of St John’s in Reid) registered teachers and the in 1926. On 8 May 1927 the Foundation Inspector of Schools reported, Stone was laid at Melbourne Avenue and on “The quality of the work is 13 September that same year, the building considerably above the average… opened with Sister Hilda as Principal. it is clear evidence of good The determination and courage shown by teaching and attention on the Mother Emily and the Sisters of the Church part of those taught.” is reflected today in the values of our In 1892, following the General School and the students we educate. In my Synod of the Dioceses in position as Acting Principal, and moreover, Australia and Tasmania, an Head of Senior School, I am constantly invitation was sent to the inspired by the unwavering strength and Sisters of the Church at Kilburn, resolve of young women. inviting them to establish Peter Milligan First VIII Rowing crew with their boat named after the foundress of our schools in Australia. Schools ACTING PRINCIPAL School, 2018 . were established initially

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 3 SCHOOL BOARD UPDATE

The Board has also just completed an so I am sure excited students will fill the updated School Master Plan for both the new rooms in no time. Please let your Junior and Senior School campuses. After family and friends know about this great conducting an architectural competition, opportunity to join the CGGS community we selected Stewart Architecture as our and read more about the ELC in this edition Master Plan architects. You may recall of the Grammar Report. that Stewart Architecture designed our Belinda Moss wonderful new building, Yhuuramulum, CHAIR OF THE SCHOOL BOARD on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. We now have a long-term plan underpinned by an exciting design proposal for the whole school and I look forward to sharing with Left: Belinda Moss – Board Chair . you the Board’s decisions about initial 1 Mrs Sue Hart – Board Deputy Chair . 2 Mr Jure Domazet . priorities from the School Master Plan. 3 Ms Bronwyn Fagan . THE CGGS BOARD WORKS HARD. THE I am also very pleased we are adding 4 Mr Alan Francis . 5 Ms Kerri Hartland . another three classrooms and a large staff TEN DIRECTORS ARE UNPAID AND GIVE 6 Dr Nick Hartland . room to the Early Learning Centre (ELC) THEIR TIME AND ENERGY TO SERVE THE 7 Mrs Cath Ingram . in time for Term 1 2019. Demand for the 8 Professor Frances Shannon . SCHOOL. THE BOARD IS RESPONSIBLE additional ELC places has been very strong, 9 Mr Rod Sutherland . FOR THE STRATEGIC DIRECTION OF THE SCHOOL, WHILE THE PRINCIPAL IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DAY-TO-DAY MANAGEMENT OF CGGS.

The Board appoints the Principal; ensures the viability and development of the School as an educational institution; approves the strategic plan and the master plan; 1 2 3 approves the annual budget and financial statements, including fees and loans; monitors the building program; monitors and mitigates risk; and ensures the School complies with its Workplace Health and Safety, legal and regulatory responsibilities.

Most recently, our attention has been very firmly focused on one of our key roles, the 4 5 6 appointment of the Principal, following Mrs Coutts departure at the end of Term 3. After sustained work advertising, shortlisting, interviewing and undertaking contract negotiations, I was delighted to recently inform our community that Mrs Anna Owen will be our next Principal. She is an outstanding contemporary educator who is a great fit for the School. 7 8 9

4 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey FROM THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD

OUR OWN EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY just teach the curriculum and offer a range IS ONE FACTOR IN INFLUENCING of sporting and co-curricular opportunities THE SCHOOLING WE CHOOSE FOR – all schools do that. What girls’ schools “Schooling is so much more do is purposefully develop girls to OUR CHILD. ANOTHER IS THE DESIRE than academic outcomes understand their gender identity and to TO GIVE OUR CHILD THE VERY BEST shape their self-concept, self-efficacy, – certainly these open START TO LIFE BOTH AT SCHOOL AND and self‑confidence so they develop the doors, but it is the other AFTER SCHOOL. knowledge and skills required to reject and skills that young women overcome gender stereotypes. As parents, we hear many views regarding develop in relation to their “Schooling is so much more than academic schools, with one current view being that belief in themselves that outcomes – certainly these open doors, men and women must work together after keeps the door open.” but it is the other skills that young women school, so it is progressive for them to attend develop in relation to their belief in co-educational schools. Literature from themselves that keeps the door open.” around the world tends to refute this view. the Junior School, to Ad Astra in the Senior Girls do better at school and after school if At CGGS we understand girls and young School, that are unique in Canberra. Our they go to single sex schools. It is boys who women. We give them every opportunity Boarding House is a home away from home, benefit most from co-educational schooling. to grow, to be creative and to smash the where girls from the bush, the city and stereotype. We expand their minds and Last year, in my speech to the graduating overseas form lifelong friendships. their physical boundaries. We develop Class of 2017, I spoke about the challenges resilience, self confidence and rigour. Our CGGS empowers girls and young women awaiting the young women in the girls and young women thrive in a safe to believe anything is possible. world after school, and quoted from the environment, embrace diversity and grow in Workplace Gender Equality Scorecard for Belinda Moss compassion while helping others. We offer 2016–17. It showed that while women CHAIR OF THE BOARD leadership programs, from Girls with Grit in comprise 50% of the workforce, they fill only 38% of management positions, 16.5% of CEO roles and 25% of board positions. Additionally, women are paid on average $26,000 per annum less than men who perform the same work.

Yet, if you are a girl in Australia, you are more likely to finish Year 12, more likely to go to university, and more likely to achieve higher academic results than boys. So, what is the problem? The problem is that schooling success does not translate into life success with regard to issues relating to gender.

So how do we fix this disparity? According to Dr Nicole Archard1 the Principal of Loreto College in South Australia, we do it by making more schooling experiences available for girls in single-sex environments. Girls’ schools do more than

1 https://womensagenda.com.au/latest/the-case-for- Belinda Moss (left) with Anne Coutts at the opening of Yhuuramulum on 29 May 2018 . government-single-sex-schools-dr-nicole-archard/

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 5 A NEW JOURNEY

WE HAVE ALL HEARD OUR YOUNGER SIBLINGS, OR OUR CHILDREN, SAY: “ARE WE THERE YET?” IT’S USUALLY FROM THEIR SEATS IN THE BACK OF THE CAR AND TYPICALLY AFTER JUST “That’s the beauty of journeys, THIRTY MINUTES OF A MUCH LONGER the end of one is just the JOURNEY. AS WE GET OLDER, WE beginning of another.” BEGIN TO VALUE THE JOURNEY ITSELF, RATHER THAN SEEING IT AS A BORING INTERLUDE WE HAVE TO ENDURE TO REACH OUR DESTINATION.

The theme for this edition of the Grammar Report is, Celebrating the journey. A student’s educational journey is one where we should encourage them to enjoy, and learn from, each step. Many students will have a goal, a destination, which they are aiming for. It may be as simple as completing an assignment, it can be as ambitious as playing representative sport or joining the symphony orchestra. Sometimes it’s a destination that is a long way away: becoming a doctor, owning their own house, having a family. All of these are worthy goals and all involve a journey that will take time and effort.

I was intrigued when I took a creative writing course in England and my tutor asserted that ninety percent of anybody’s creative writing should be discarded. Mrs Coutts during the Junior School’s farewell assembly in her honour, 24 September 2018 . Outrageous! I felt I didn’t have time to lose and I certainly did not want to throw away such a large percentage of my creative output. However, she was right...redrafting As I move to the next part of my own Anne Coutts and redrafting meant that I learnt more and personal journey, I look back on the last PRINCIPAL 2011–2018 more at each step. eight years as fulfilling, purposeful and

So we want our students to enjoy the happy. I will miss Girls Grammar a great journey and to put aside that, “Are we there deal but I will relish a new challenge and a yet?” outlook. We want to celebrate the different way of life in Western Australia. journey with them and encourage them as That’s the beauty of journeys, the end of they take each step. one is just the beginning of another.

6 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey 30 YEARS OF THE CHAPEL 1

THIS YEAR MARKS THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CHAPEL OF THE ANNUNCIATION.

To students who attended the School in the 1970s and early-mid 1980s, it may be hard to believe the structure at the top of the oval, which once housed the school gymnasium, 2 3 is now the spiritual centre of CGGS.

Originally constructed in 1972, the building underwent an extensive conversion under the guidance of architect Brian Dowling, and in 1988 was officially opened as the School’s place of worship.

Thirty years after its consecration, the guest preacher at the 2018 Founders’ Day Service, Bishop Stephen Pickard, rededicated the chapel for the School’s use. 4 5 Our School Chaplain, Reverend Dr David Willsher says, “Chapel remains a natural 1 Chapel of the Annunciation, March 2016 . and loved part of our school life as students, 2 Jody Packer (1983) and Jim Taylor wed staff and chaplains meet regularly for in the Chapel on 21 December 1988, prayer, worship, singing and lunch, as well pictured with Reverend Willson . 3 Archer Bell and silhouette . as for tears and laughs!” 4 Sarah (Boyce, 1993) and Ian chose to baptise their son, James, at the Originally located in a small classroom in Founders’ Day Chapel Service, 2012, the Boarding House, the Chapel was later pictured with Reverend Harris . allocated temporary space at the rear of the 5 2013 Family & Friends’ Blessing of the Animals Service . former Assembly Hall when the Boarding 6 Consecration of the Chapel, 17 June House underwent renovations in the late 1988 (before the installation of the stained glass window) . 1960s. This move improved the accessibility 6 for day girls wishing to attend services and take up positions as chapel servers, a role usually reserved for Boarders. In 1989, the Parents & Friends Association donated the Knud Smenge pipe organ and the Grammarians’ During any given week, a range of Chapel services are held for students, staff and the Association gifted the stained glass window which School community with students regularly is based on Chapter 8 of the Book of Proverbs, and engaged in the planning and running of was designed by Grammarian Ede Horton (1971). each service. In addition to special Easter and Christmas services, the Chapel also The Chapel also contains a number of other gifts hosts Grammarians who wish to return to their former school to celebrate marriages from member of the school community including and baptisms or to honour the passing of candlesticks, pews and the Archer Bell (donated in 2001). loved-ones.

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 7 THE EVOLUTION OF OUR ENVIRONMENT

SINCE THE LAST ISSUE OF THE GRAMMAR REPORT, WE HAVE EMBARKED INTRODUCING UPON A RANGE OF INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS AIMED AT IMPROVING OUR TEACHING AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT. YHUURAMULUM

For the Junior School campus, these how this relates to our overall energy After months of construction, the second projects include the continuation of our consumption. stage of our Lake Precinct was finally unveiled this year. Students descended air conditioning rollout for classrooms; Our new Master Plan for the School will on the new multi-purpose learning space a refit of Year 5 classrooms as a trial for guide the evolution of our campuses as we at the beginning of Term 1 (efficiently future planned upgrades; a significant turn our attention to our centenary year. delivered there by our new 55-seater bus) upgrade to our playground space; and This was an extensive process that involved – well ahead of the official opening on the commencement of the Early Learning consultation with staff and students and Tuesday, 29 May 2018. Centre (ELC) expansion to add another three input from a range of specialist consultants. classrooms and a nature-based playground. The opening ceremony presented the The design component of the Masterplan opportunity to celebrate with the CGGS Our Senior School campus has also seen was led by Stewart Architecture who community, and to unveil the building’s a range of activity including the opening were selected by the School following a new name, Yhuuramulum. up of our A Block classrooms by replacing design competition where three leading timber clad walls with glazing; the architectural firms were invited to pitch The ceremony commenced with a refurbishment of the gymnasium floor; a their ideas. Welcome to Country smoking ceremony number of projects in the Boarding House led by Ngunnawal elder, Auntie Violet, The final report was presented to the Board followed by the official opening by Anna- (including a refresh of the computer room in October and we are now working on Maria Arabia, Chief Executive of the and more air conditioning for student reviewing priority projects for the initial Australian Academy of Science. Principal bedrooms); and the addition of air handling phase of the Master Plan. For the Senior Anne Coutts welcomed guests including infrastructure (to manage air quality) for School this will include decommissioning Directors of the School and Gabriel the Waterman Centre. the demountable classrooms, Foundation Boards and Grammarians’ We have also undertaken important school- improvements to traffic management Association committee members. They wide projects focussed on information (primarily around student pick-up and were joined by representatives from the technology and energy management. The drop-off), additional on-site parking and Junior and Senior School student body backbone of the School’s information the creation of new teaching and learning and Directors from both campuses. technology infrastructure was upgraded, spaces that link existing buildings. The The two-storey building was designed to resulting in improved performance and focus for the Junior School will be on take advantage of the location and vista reliability of our network for students and gradually creating additional classrooms of Yarralumla Bay. The upper floor offers staff. This work has enabled us to begin the to provide enough space for four classes multiple configuration options, while the introduction of new technology to further in each year group as enrolments flow lower level houses a STEM workshop and support creativity and collaboration within through from our expanded ELC. the rowing shed – enjoying direct access our teaching and learning spaces. to the lake. More detailed information on the Master From an energy management perspective, Plan will be communicated in the new year So far this year, in addition to hosting solar panels have been installed across once the Board has considered the priorities students on a regular basis, Yhuuramulum all campuses, including Yhuuramulum. identified above and the timings of initial has also accommodated a wide range Students are able to access data from the project works have been confirmed. of events including the P&F Trivia Night, solar panels which shows the renewable a Green Room presentation by Winter Matt O’Brien energy generated by the School and Olympian David Morris, the Senior School CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Art and Fashion Showcase, Junior School science activities and a book launch.

8 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

CHARLOTTE DREAMS UP NAME FOR BUILDING

Yhuuramulum – the winning name for the School’s newest building – was selected following a community-wide naming 1 competition, won by Year 7 student Charlotte Young.

Charlotte's entry was selected as the winner and inspired the name Yhuuramulum, a traditional Ngunnawal word that means ‘to dream’. Her submission reflected thoughtfully on the history of the local indigenous people, as well as capturing the essence of the School’s motto, ‘To the young, anything is possible’.

“I chose the name because I imagined the lake facility becoming a place to create and dream for our future. I was so happy to win the naming competition and I am glad this name will last long after I have 2 left school and that I will have left a part of me here,” said Charlotte.

All proposed names were to meet criteria which was then considered by the judging panel. Submissions were received from staff, students, parents, Grammarians and members of the School Board. Thank you to everyone who took the time and energy to contribute to this community-wide competition.

1 Flexible learning spaces on the upper floor of Yhuuramulum . 2 New rowing storage on the lower level of the building . 3 Charlotte Young with Anna-Maria Arabia . 3

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 9 WHAT MAKES OUR ELC EXTRAORDINARY?

OUR EARLY LEARNING CENTRE (ELC) IS CO-EDUCATIONAL AND CATERS FOR CHILDREN FROM THREE TO FIVE YEARS OF AGE, IN TWO SEPARATE YEAR LEVELS — RECEPTION AND PRE-PREP — BOTH OFFERING FULL-TIME AND PART-TIME EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS.

The ELC is a purpose built facility, inspired by overwhelmingly positive feedback from the the Reggio Emilia philosophy. Natural light CGGS parent community, the ELC expansion fills the spacious rooms and the central Piazza will increase capacity through the addition is an inviting space where families, children of a new wing housing three learning and the ELC community come together. spaces and additional outdoor play areas for a further 66 children. Offering an educational program based on the Early Years Learning Framework, On Tuesday, 25 September, a very excited group of students broke ground on the expansion of in conjunction with the International the ELC. In recognition of their commitment to Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB CGGS, eight Year 12 students who started their A group of students who started their CGGS journey in PYP), the natural curiosity and creativity of journey at the ELC joined current Reception the ELC joined current Reception and Pre-Prep students children is evident throughout the ELC, with to turn the first sod on the site of the ELC expansion, and Pre-Prep students as they turned the first artwork, photographs and shared learning September 2018 . sod on the construction site. taking pride of place around the centre. The architecture firm behind the original Construction commenced in November EXPANDING THE ELC ELC building, Daryl Jackson Alistair Swayn, 2018 and following the choice to use cross have designed the new two-storey wing laminated timber (CLT) – a method which TO MEET DEMAND which will seamlessly integrate with the allows for much of the building to be pre- current facility, preserving the learning assembled – disruption will be minimal. In response to community demand for environments which are so important to Students will be able to enjoy their new quality early childhood places, coupled with our students’ development and wellbeing. spaces in Term 1, 2019.

KATE COLUMBINE DIRECTOR OF JUNIOR SCHOOL (ELC) My journey at CGGS began in 2008 when I relocated to Canberra from Queensland. Beginning with a dual role of Reception Class Teacher and ELC Senior Teacher, I was fortunate to join the Junior School team as the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme was being explored, and subsequently adopted. I had no idea at the time how this would guide my career and open up new opportunities.

10 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey GETTING TO KNOW OUR STUDENTS – WITH KATE COLUMBINE

Tory Carpenter (Pre-Prep) Philip Maleganeas (Pre-Prep) Tory’s CGGS journey commenced as a Before he was even born, Philip's family toddler, when she accompanied older sister were very familiar faces at the ELC, his older Eliza (now Year 1) as she entered Reception sisters, Anastasia (now Year 4) and Anna- in the ELC in 2015. I still remember Tory’s Marie (now Year 2) both commenced in mum, Bec, a Grammarian from the class of Reception in the ELC. As a baby, Philip was 2002, struggling to contain Tory as the lure a regular visitor to the ELC, and by the time of the colourful activities and songs became is was his turn to start Reception, he was too difficult to resist! Tory (not so) patiently more than ready and has embraced every waited for her turn to join the ELC, and in opportunity since. 2017 she commenced Reception.

“I love doing puzzles. When “I love playing. In Reception I was in Reception, I just did I really liked to play with… easy puzzles but now I am maybe… with the blocks. I in Pre-Prep I can do hard made bridges and roads. Now ones…but they are easy for in Pre-Prep I can know about me! I am happy at school. I plants and we have talked love it when my family come about rubbish and looking in… like on Mother’s Day after our world. I feel happy and Father’s Day and for the about coming to my school. Student Led Conferences.” I like excursions and playing outside with my friends. And

I like seeing my sisters at the Top: Tory enjoying the great outdoors at ELC . gate when I am outside.” Above: Philip Maleganeas is following in his sisters' footsteps at the ELC .

I have had the opportunity to watch those and inspired me and has ensured I continue who I nurtured and guided as three-year olds, to evolve and grow as an educator, leader just embarking on life, evolve into confident, and a person. independent, proud and capable young people, While my roles and titles have changed and their journey is something I am truly over the course of my time at CGGS, many honoured and grateful to have been a part of. things have remained constant: the sense As an early childhood educator, hands-on, of community at our school, the passion of inquiry based learning has always been our educators, and our commitment at the central to my teaching philosophy, and to ELC to creating an environment in which the Director of Junior School (ELC), Kate Columbine . further embrace this through the PYP, has children can explore their world, express their been a joy. To have had the opportunity thoughts and ideas freely, and where their I absolutely loved the time I spent as a to take this further and train as a PYP natural curiosity and excitement for learning classroom teacher in the ELC, and the fondest Workshop Leader, and share my passion is fostered. I look forward with excitement memories I have are of the relationships I was with others in the PYP community within to the next phase, as the ELC expands and so privileged to form with the children and Australia and the Asia Pacific region, has evolves further, and to the opportunities their families, many of which endure today. been incredibly rewarding. It has challenged and new possibilities on the horizon.

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 11 TREADING THE PATH TOGETHER

IN 2005, AS THE CGGS EARLY LEARNING CENTRE (ELC) COMMENCED ITS SECOND YEAR OF EDUCATING CHILDREN, AROUND FIFTY PRE-PREP STUDENTS STARTED THEIR SCHOOLING TOGETHER. OVER THE YEARS, CLASSMATES AND TEACHERS WOULD COME AND GO, AND FROM TIME TO TIME, NEW FACES WOULD APPEAR.

For ten of these students, a special bond was formed and now, almost fourteen years later, after spending their entire school life at CGGS, they are preparing to leave the School and start the next chapter of their lives.

When these young women reminisce about their time at CGGS, there are recurring themes that pop up in their conversations Back row: Iliana Xirakis, Maria Tsiokantas, Rosie Schweizer, Ellen Thurlow and Emma Khoo . Front row: Tallulah Farrow, Laura Francis, Rachel Crawford, Ella Matthews and Josie Baillie . – friendship, the supportive environment, opportunities, community and most of all, the appreciation they have for their teachers. prospective families around the campus and For Iliana Xirakis, dance is her passion and share with them the things they love about she acknowledges how lucky she has been “Throughout my schooling life, I was the school. Rosie Schweizer is so dedicated to combine it with her studies. inspired by my teachers and peers to want to welcoming new people she earned the to learn not just for the sake of achieving “CGGS has really given me a lot of informal title of Tour Captain. high marks,” said Maria Tsiokantas. opportunities to dance at school,” said Iliana. “I feel that there is so much that CGGS “With Dance Fest and performances “Instead, I want to learn because of how has to offer to every student, and by in assemblies…and excursions where knowledge adds to you as a person…my welcoming everyone we are enriching we have the chance to do classes and teachers have showed me the deeper the ever-growing talent of the school,” watch professional shows – it’s been meaning in what I do every day.” said Rosie. nice to be able to do all that at school.” The youngest of three sisters to have attended As Rosie plans her next journey – to the USA Tallulah Farrow, who is also heading to the CGGS –all who have held the position of where she has been awarded a scholarship USA on a scholarship (Tennis, at University Service Captain – Laura Francis cites a much- to study and play Division 1 Basketball of Colorado Boulder) said she has “met some loved teacher as her best memory. at George Mason University – she amazing life-long friends" during various “Mrs Bennett (McNally). She was an acknowledges the support she has received stages of being at the school. "I think that the incredible teacher and made each day from CGGS while following her dreams. biggest thing I will take away from this school special, she also taught my sister in Year 2, is a sense of community,” said Tallulah. “I got to spend my childhood at a place and then me in Year 2 as well. She became a where I was always appreciated for who I Leaving the school gates for the last time very close family friend,” said Laura. was and who I wanted to be. I am loyal to is destined to be an emotional time, and it The pride these students have in their school CGGS but I have come to realise that it is can’t be understated how significant it will is obvious. Many of them volunteer to show also loyal to me.” be for this group of ten.

12 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

Safe Schools Captain, Ellen Thurlow said, “CGGS will always have a special place in my heart, it feels so weird to be leaving and branching out from a place that’s been a constant rock for most of my life.”

Meanwhile, Ella Matthews says while it will be hard to say goodbye, “I am planning to take a gap year and…depending on my degree, I may even end up applying to teach at CGGS!”

up until this year and her younger sister, THE LEGACY Eloise, is in Year 8.

Every graduate of 2018 will be welcomed Maria’s mother, Helen (Savvas, 1989) back to the School with open arms as they attended the School with her three sisters – become members of the Grammarians the significance of this is not lost on Maria. Association. This community, made up of “Being part of a family legacy, has over 10,000 past students, includes sisters, highlighted for me, the importance of mothers and aunts of the ten young valuing education. My grandmother who women featured here. was a migrant from Cyprus, along with In addition to Laura’s two sisters, Sarah my grandfather, worked tremendously (2014) and Rebecca (2016), Emma Khoo’s hard to give my mother and her sisters sister Sarah graduated in 2011 and Josie the opportunity to be part of the CGGS Baillie’s sister finished in 2015. Rosie’s community,” said Maria. sister Vivienne and Ella’s sister Bronte “One day, I hope to be able to send my were both members of the Class of 2016. daughter to CGGS, to maintain the family Rachel Crawford is a second-generation legacy, and provide my children with the Emma and Sarah Khoo – back photo taken on Emma’s first day of ELC and the front, on her first Grammarian – her mother Jane same opportunities that were given to me day of Year 12 . (Middlemiss, 1986) taught at the School by my parents, and my grandparents.”

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 13 THE ROAD TO OXFORD

ESTABLISHED IN 1902 AND NOW REGARDED AS ONE OF THE MOST The Reverend Dr Sarah Bachelard PRESTIGIOUS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS IN THE WORLD, THE RHODES (1984) SCHOLARSHIP ENABLES OUTSTANDING YOUNG PEOPLE, FROM AROUND Sarah completed an Arts degree (Classics and THE WORLD, TO UNDERTAKE FULL-TIME POSTGRADUATE STUDIES AT THE History) at the Australian National University UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD IN ENGLAND. THE THREADS THAT TIE RHODES (ANU) after graduating from CGGS in 1984. SCHOLARS TOGETHER ARE: THEIR POTENTIAL TO LEAD; A VISION FOR A She then went on to study theology at Oxford. BETTER WORLD; AND A MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING AND FELLOWSHIP FOR “At the time, I had no intention of being THE BETTERMENT OF MANKIND. ordained an Anglican priest – indeed, at that time, the first women hadn’t yet been Canberra Girls Grammar School proudly After backpacking around Europe for six ordained and I didn’t particularly feel myself boasts four past students who have gone months, she returned to Perth to finish drawn to this vocation,” said Sarah. on to become Rhodes Scholars. Their names her articled clerkship. She then moved to “I studied theology because I was interested in are listed on an honour board which takes Melbourne, where she has lived since the the spiritual life and I was looking for a way to pride of place in the reception area of late 1980s. make faith come alive for me. As it turned out, the Senior School – a daily reminder that this turned out to be a much longer journey Elizabeth was a solicitor for four years, until anything is possible. Here, we introduce the than I’d realised it was going to be!” four women, each who have blazed their she joined the Victorian Bar in 1991. She was It led, first of all, away from the church and for own trails since leaving the gates of CGGS. appointed senior counsel in 2002. over ten years, Sarah did not consider herself “I have always enjoyed teaching and have a Christian. During that time, she worked Justice Elizabeth Hollingworth taught judges, lawyers and students in a back in Canberra as a researcher in the Senate (1978) broad range of subjects, including advocacy, Committee Office and also completed a After graduating school, Elizabeth and evidence, procedure and judgment writing.” PhD in moral philosophy at ANU. Eventually, her family moved to Perth, where she through a practice of meditation, she found studied law at the University of Western Elizabeth was appointed a judge of the herself drawn (much to her surprise) back to Australia. There she held a number of Supreme Court of Victoria in 2004. She Christian faith – and a few years later, to a student leadership positions and took hears criminal and civil trials and appeals. sense of call to the priesthood. up rowing, ultimately competing at the National Championships. She graduated with Bachelor of Jurisprudence (Hons) and Bachelor of Laws (Hons) degrees, and won the prize for the most outstanding law student combined with leadership.

“I was the first Australian woman lawyer to be awarded a Rhodes Scholarship, and spent two years at Oxford studying for the postgraduate Bachelor of Civil Law degree,” said Elizabeth.

She particularly enjoyed rowing at Oxford, where the sport is highly regarded, and was fortunate to row for a successful Oxford crew in the annual Boat Race against Cambridge. Justice Elizabeth Hollingworth . Rev Dr Sarah Bachelard .

14 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

“My time at Canberra Girls Grammar was an important part of my formation. There were aspects of school that I loved and continue to appreciate. I had some wonderful and intellectually engaged teachers and I particularly enjoyed English and History, and my introduction to poetry, tragic literature and medieval history.” Dr Chloe Flutter . Sarah Dobbie at her graduation in Oxford .

“Being awarded the Rhodes Scholarship was a hugely encouraging experience, and opened the opportunity for an enormously consulting firms, Chloe specialises in public Fellowship, and then spent summer enriching couple of years at Oxford. The sector consulting. She and her husband, Craig, volunteering as a refugee lawyer on Lesvos fruits of this time are still emerging in my are also kept busy with two young boys. (Greece), working in and out of Moria, “the life, and I am grateful for all that it has world’s worst refugee camp”. enabled in and through me.” Sarah Dobbie (2010) “Initially, I felt as though I unravelled in In her final year at CGGS, Sarah held the Dr Chloe Flutter (1991) Oxford (or that Oxford had unravelled me) position of School Vice-Captain and received – the whole ‘Rhodes Scholar’ plus ‘Oxford Chloe graduated from CGGS in 1991 and the Principal’s Award along with the Prize student’ combination has a way of making went on to earn a Bachelor of Economics for School Leadership and the Prize for you question every move, thought, and from the Australian National University Consistent Academic Excellence. intention…I wondered if it was ever going and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) at Sydney to be “enough” to just live a life and help all University, majoring in Geography. Her She went on study at the ANU and those I can. It forced me to face up to myself decision to study economics and geography graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (First and ask what I really want to do and, more was inspired by one of her teachers at Class Honours) and a Bachelor of Arts importantly, who I really want to be. I can’t CGGS, Mrs Virr. (International Relations). Throughout say that it was always (or often) easy, or that this period, Sarah volunteered for various “Her geography classes challenged us to I’m quite there, but I finished the first year in humanitarian and community organisations, think critically about our environment and Oxford feeling more myself than ever.” in addition to interning for the United look for the often-hidden forces that make Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Sarah doesn’t underestimate the it the way it is,” said Chloe. the Australian Law Reform Commission and importance of being educated at Canberra In 1999, Chloe was awarded the NSW the International Prosecutor at the genocide Girls Grammar School and credits the Rhodes Scholarship and continued to follow trials in Cambodia. dedication and energy of her teachers for this interest at Oxford University where giving her the courage to persist in the face “Two days after graduating from the ANU, she completed a Doctorate in Economic of resistance and a voice to speak when I flew out to Egypt to work as a refugee Geography. Studying in Oxford as a Rhodes others remain quiet. legal advisor, where I was still working Scholar was a life-changing experience. when I applied for the Rhodes Scholarship,” “The education that I received “Not only did I meet my husband (he was said Sarah. gave me a freedom that millions the Western Australian Rhodes [Scholar] Sarah’s first Oxford academic year saw her from the same year), I relished being in a fight for – the freedom of choice. complete a Masters in Refugee and Forced truly global cohort of students and studying In turn, it gave me the opportunity Migration Studies with Distinction and under some of the world’s top academics.” and responsibility to make receive the Prize for Best Thesis. Beyond Today, as a Partner at The Boston Consulting the academics, she travelled to Palestine as genuine differences to the lives of Group, one of the world’s leading strategy part of the inaugural Eden Rhodes Palestine those who lack that freedom.”

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 15 LEADING THE WAY IN GIRLS’ EDUCATION

AD ASTRA – TO THE STARS YEAR 6 – GIRLS WHO LEAD

Ad Astra is the Senior School’s holistic program that enables our Girls Who Lead is a year-long program designed to empower students to gain the skills necessary for success in academic pursuits Year 6 girls with leadership skills for the future. It recognises and and future employment. It was introduced this year to Years 7 and 9, develops their talents and abilities through the membership and in 2019 will be part of the curriculum for Years 7 to 10. of twelve designated committees and other leadership The program aims to develop students through future-focussed opportunities, including hosting special assemblies, fundraising learning and the layering of skills year-on-year. This helps to cultivate and community events. an awareness of the world around them and understand how their The program also aims to develop the students’ mentor skills. By individuality comes into play across different environments. working collaboratively and cooperatively with Junior Primary The Year 7 ID Program, focuses on transferable skills taught peers in the Buddy Reading and Peer Mediation programs, the through a series of practical workshops exploring critical Year 6 students have consulted with teachers to further develop thinking, research, self-management, emotional intelligence, their leadership skills. communication, and planning and reflection. “Leadership is being a role model for younger students. In the Peer Students in Year 9 participate in the Canberra Community Project Mediation activities we put the CGGS Way into action,” said Year 6 – an opportunity to collaborate with peers, teachers and business student Zoe Theodorakis. mentors to identify challenges and opportunities that face In its pilot year, the program encouraged girls to adopt critical Canberra as a community. The value of their design solutions are thinking when problem solving through the use rigorous inquiry ultimately evaluated by members of the community. techniques. Furthermore, it has given the students a voice to From next year, our Year 8 students will focus on School Community, share their knowledge and skills with others. as they build on the teamwork skills developed in Year 7, to create passion-projects of benefit to the CGGS community. Meanwhile, “We lead with our ideas and show this in assemblies and young women in Year 10 will undertake a Personal Project, using fundraising activities like Mini-Fete to raise funds for the Alimo their skills and connections in the community to produce and Academy, our sister school in Kenya,” said Zara Czechowicz from 6R. exhibit a project with a global slant.

Year 9 students working on their Heart of Canberra projects . Year 6 Mini-Fete .

16 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

CGGS HAS ALWAYS SOUGHT TO ADOPT NEW, TARGETED, AGE-APPROPRIATE PROGRAMS WHICH CHALLENGING AND CONTEMPORARY METHODS OF COMPLEMENT THE CURRICULUM TO EQUIP GIRLS FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING, WHILST MAINTAINING OUR LIFE IN THE 21ST CENTURY. IN 2019, OUR YEAR 4 STUDENTS ACADEMIC RIGOUR AND STRONG PASTORAL FOCUS. WILL BE THE FIRST COHORT TO EXPERIENCE OUR NEWEST OUR TEACHING AND LEARNING TEAMS ACROSS THE PROGRAM, smART Girls. SCHOOL HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK DEVELOPING

YEAR 5 – GIRLS WITH GRIT YEAR 3 – GIRLS TALK

The Year 5 ‘Girls with Grit’ program was developed to foster and Girls’ TALK is a year long, evidence-based program for Year 3 girls promote a range of skills and dispositions essential for success that targets the development of a sense of belonging and wellbeing in the 21st century. The immersive program teaches students through a focus on positive health, positive emotions, and positive relationships. valuable life lessons which can be applied to our leadership- oriented Year 6 program, the challenges of transitioning into Through a variety of teaching and learning strategies embedded Year 7, and beyond. across the curriculum, students have developed the understandings, dispositions and habits to support their ongoing growth. This has Four focus areas underpin the program: fostered increased engagement in all aspects of school life. ff Outdoor education and physical endeavour This year, two Units of Inquiry (Who We Are and How We Express ff Happiness and wellness Ourselves) explicitly focused on the students’ sense of self and ff Learning how to learn others, and how this impacts their relationships. Students enjoyed Tai Chi which promoted physical health and mindfulness, ff Sustainability and action and Orienteering which developed conflict resolution skills, As a result, students have developed: common positive language; independence and wellbeing. increased independence; strategies to face challenges and After attending the Girls TALK Gala Day in November 2018, parent deal with adversity; increased awareness of personal learning Euan Mitchell declared the program is tangibly contributing to his preferences through practice of metacognition; and an daughter Tess’ growth mindset. appreciation of taking action in the wider community through “What sets people apart more and more is their level of emotional fundraising for charities. quotient, to have self awareness about their own feelings but also Sophie Frost of 5B says, “The program has made me more aware empathy to understand others,” said Euan. of what I can do to help charities and fundraise to help those who “We certainly get more a more nuanced breakdown at the dining are in need. I know that I am growing as a person because I am table on what happened that day, how everyone reacted and what becoming braver and stronger due to Girls with Grit." they thought about it. It’s great that CGGS is thinking about how to give our girls the skills to succeed in a changing world.”

Girls with Grit at B .FIRM . Year 3 students enjoying the outdoors at camp .

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 17 TOGETHER IN MUSIC – THE MUSIC ACADEMY

THE MUSIC ACADEMY AT CANBERRA GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL WAS OFFICIALLY A COMMUNITY LAUNCHED AT THE TOGETHER IN MUSIC CONCERT ON WEDNESDAY, 4 APRIL 2018 IN A JOYOUS CELEBRATION OF MUSIC AND COMMUNITY. UNITED BY MUSIC

The concert featured performances from and handbells. The final performance of Music is, and will continue to be, an important the Glanville-Hicks Symphony Orchestra, the night saw the Australian premiere of part of life at CGGS. It provides us with an Williams Guitar Ensemble, the debut Dan Forrest’s Jubilate Deo, a 50-minute opportunity to express ourselves, to challenge performance of Strike! Handbells, Gabriel work featuring a massed choir made up of our intellect and to work together with others Trio and our guests from Austria, the CGGS students, local community choirs and to achieve our collective goals. Music helps to Graz Boys’ Choir. Australian composer our Austrian guests accompanied by the integrate life and learning for our students and and Grammarian, Sally Whitwell (1991), Glanville-Hicks Symphony Orchestra. It was is essential in the pursuit of a holistic education. commissioned a work for the launch and a truly magical performance celebrating The Music Academy program offers The Edge was brought to life on stage by music’s ability to unite and empower. something for everyone – from early over 200 voices, the symphony orchestra childhood music classes right through to theory, aural and musicianship, composition classes, handbells, community choir and symphony orchestra for our students and community members. It is wonderful to see Grammarians, staff, parents and friends standing alongside our students in pursuit of their own individual and collective music goals. We are truly, together in music!

1 Performers assembled on stage for the Together in Music Concert on 4 April 2018 . 2 Handbells Ensemble performing at the Together in Music Concert . 3 Students enjoy the fun Music Dance Night in June 2018 .

1

“One of the best things about music, is the ability to share it with others. The

Together in Music Concert was a great 2 example of the universal nature of music as we stood on stage to perform Jubilate Deo for the first time in Australia with local Canberra community members and the Graz Boys Choir from Austria.”

Nicole Wang — 2018 Music Captain (right)

3

18 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

“I’m honoured to have MALCOLM GILLIES – PATRON received a Scholarship in OF THE MUSIC ACADEMY 2018. The Music Academy As patron of The Music Academy at here at CGGS is phenomenal. Canberra Girls Grammar School, I do Being mentored by world hope that this new venture will allow class musicians, attending you to appreciate more the great mental, masterclasses and engaging aural and physical traction that is music. in performances with Whether you are seven or seventy, there the broader community is music for you: pieces to play, songs to sing, skills to practise, and wonderful are just some of the works of musical art perhaps just to great things about our contemplate. Music is about the mind, opportunities in music.” the heart and that other thing we Professor Malcolm Gillies, Patron of The sometimes call ‘the soul’. And in this mad Music Academy . Ailin He—Vivien Gough Memorial world, we especially need lots of ‘soul’. Music Scholar (below) The Music Academy seeks to share CGGS’s groups or more formal artistic partners. musical expertise and accomplishments Yes, music is all about connection, and more widely than ever before. Its offerings making new connections. Perhaps there cover a wide range of styles of music and is a new experience here at The Music different skills or techniques. Led by the Academy for you. excellent CGGS music staff, the Academy’s programs throw open the School’s doors Professor Malcolm Gillies to the community, whether as individuals, PATRON OF THE MUSIC ACADEMY

Academy. If you are interested in assisting Joel Copeland FRIENDS OF MUSIC with CGGS Friends of Music activities, DEAN OF MUSIC please contact the group secretary, Wendy Canberra Girls Grammar School Friends of Below: Members of Friends of Music at the Music Dance Craig, at music@cggs .act .edu .au Night, June 2018 . Music is a small group of parents, students, alumni, caregivers and friends interested in supporting the work of The Music Academy through fundraising for discretionary acquisitions.

Fundraising takes the form of operating a canteen, sausage sizzles and bake sales at Music Academy events held throughout the year. In 2018 the Friends have sponsored the Instrumental Opportunity Program (IOP) for Bassoon and Oboe in the Junior School and provided funds for the purchase of hand chimes for both the Junior and Senior Schools. They have even catered for international guests, such as the Brigham Young University Wind Symphony. The group generally meets 4–6 times each year to plan its support of activities which change according to the needs of The Music

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 19 SPOTLIGHT ON CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS

STUDENTS AT OUR SCHOOL ARE SPOILED FOR CHOICE WHEN IT COMES TO THE ARTS. IN ADDITION TO THE MUSIC ACADEMY, CGGS HAS A BROAD OFFERING OF CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS WHICH GIRLS CAN TAP INTO VIA CURRICULUM AND CO-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES. THE WEALTH OF TALENT WITHIN THE SCHOOL IS DEMONSTRATED THROUGH EXHIBITIONS OF STUDENT WORK, PERFORMANCES, ART AND FASHION SHOWCASES AND MAJOR PRODUCTIONS SUCH AS THE 2017 WHOLE-OF-SCHOOL PERFORMANCE OF ANNIE – THE MUSICAL.

Take a walk around the Early Learning Centre Students from as young as five can join the and you will see our youngest students Mini Artists where they explore different embracing their creativity. Paintings, elements of art while girls in Year 5 are drawings, sculptures and decorations adorn encouraged to participate in Drama Club the colourful classrooms and students which culminates in a full production mid- express themselves through play. As students way through the year. continue on their journey through the School, Some of the most popular activities in the their learning in the Arts grows with them. Senior School stem from the co-curricular In the Junior School, students from Prep program. The Ausdance Youth Dance Festival, to Year 6 draw on a wide range of stimuli: Dancefest, is one such example. Each year, the creative works of professional artists, students from Years 7 to 12 audition to be a contemporary and historical works, music, part of the non-competitive event that aims Top: Senior performance at Dance Festival 2018 . artwork, dance and stories. Learning in to promote and showcase dance in ACT high Above: Sophie McGlade (Year 11) and Alex Walker these areas is integrated into general schools and colleges. CGGS’ involvement (Year 12) feature in a ‘light painting’ created by Senior classroom programs as well as being taught has been long-standing and our students Photography students . by specialist teachers and through the co- love being a part of this fun, energetic and curricular program. community based co-curricular activity. affords students the chance to perform in front of their peers and the wider school The Waterman Centre and Drama Centre "I’ve been a part of Dancefest since are home to the Arts in the Senior School (in community, but also opens the door for Year 9. At first it was to just to have fun addition to the myriad activities undertaken production and direction opportunities. with my friends and dance but now it’s in the Music Centre). On any given day, "Co-curricular drama has been an extremely these spaces buzz with creative energy. because of the experience. Dancefest rewarding experience for me. I have been From Year 7 Drama students developing allows me to become more confident involved in many co-curricular productions theatrical skills such as self-expression, and open as a dancer and a person including Steel Magnolias and directing trust and discipline, to young women in overall. It gives me a break from my the Year 7–8 production. This has allowed Years 11 and 12 participating in specialist school academic commitments and me to make lasting friendships with girls ‘light painting’ workshops. The pursuit of allows me to relax, while being part creativity is evident across the campus. from other years,” said Year 11 student of a lovely, inspiring and supportive Noa Zwikael. In addition to the extensive Creative and community of girls.” Performing Arts offerings in the curriculum, “Acting has also given me a lot of confidence Alex Walker, Year 12 . CGGS is recognised for its broad co- which had a positive effect on my everyday curricular program which enables students The co-curricular Drama program, broken life. I would highly suggest participating across the School to extend themselves and into three categories – Years 7–8, Years in co-curricular drama to anyone in the follow their artistic passions. 9–10 and Senior productions – not only school community.”

20 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

WHEN IT ALL COMES TOGETHER ANNIE – THE MUSICAL

With the announcement that CGGS students (and teachers!) created stunning would be performing Annie as its major costumes and members of the Creative production last year, the corridors Arts faculty produced sets featuring the were humming with excited girls keen New York skyline. to show off their acting, singing and At the annual Canberra Area Theatre (CAT) dancing chops. Not to mention the Awards Gala Night held earlier this year, squeals of delight when canine guest our production of Annie was nominated in star ‘Murphy’ took to the stage to make seven categories. Stephanie Maclaine (Year the announcement! 12) won the award for Best Youth Actress Director Fiona Mahl collaborated in a Featured Role in a Musical, while with many others across the School Conductor and Musical Director, Natalie to bring Annie to life. With Mia Byron Guile won the award for Best Musical and Evie Harrison sharing the lead Director for a School or Youth Production. role and Stephanie Maclaine as Miss These awards represented the culmination 1 Hannigan, Junior and Senior School of many months of planning and rehearsing students featured both on and off by a large group of staff and talented “Being given the chance to play the the stage. Our musicians, led by Mrs students, who all contributed in their own part of Miss Hannigan was such an Natalie Guile brought the much-loved way to create a show which they can all be incredible opportunity. Her character soundtrack to life, while textiles very proud of. is so extravagant and allowed for me to play around with things I hadn’t had a chance to do before. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and led to my first CAT Award. I worked so hard for this performance and put in a lot of effort and it definitely paid off. I am so grateful to have been given that opportunity and I am so excited to see what other opportunities come my way.”

2 3 Stephanie Maclaine

“Working with our students in the production of Annie was certainly a privilege – it was also really enjoyable. To receive a CAT nomination was a great honour – to actually win the award for Best Musical Director for a School or Youth Production was an amazing surprise. It was so lovely to be recognised for the role I took in the production, especially given 4 5 the pleasure it was to work with our 1 Stephanie Maclaine as Miss Hannigan . 4 CAT Award winners, Natalie Guile and Stephanie dedicated and talented students.” Maclaine pictured with voice coach, Helen Swan . 2 Evie Harrison as Annie and Anna Khan as Grace . 5 The cast of Annie with orchestra . Natalie Guile 3 Danny O’Neill as Daddy Warbucks with Evie Harrison as Annie .

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 21 FROM THE PARENTS & FRIENDS ASSOCIATION

A VIBRANT AND ENGAGED SCHOOL COMMUNITY DOESN’T HAPPEN BY CHANCE BUT RATHER THROUGH A STEADY BUILDING OF RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PARENTS, TEACHERS, STUDENTS – EVERYONE AT THE SCHOOL. ULTIMATELY, WE WANT THE SAME THING; A PLACE WHERE WE AND OUR FAMILIES FEEL WELCOME, CONNECTIONS ARE MADE AND A JOURNEY IS SHARED FOR THE TIME THAT OUR CHILDREN ARE AT CGGS. THE P&F’S PRIMARY PURPOSE IS TO DO JUST THAT; BRING PARENTS TOGETHER FROM ELC THROUGH TO GRADUATION. 1

Activities this year have included; ff Co-ordinating and staffing the Junior School Athletics Carnival kiosk which was furnished with delicious donations from parents ff Running a sellout Trivia Night in August ff Turning student art into lasting memories with the Junior School fundraiser ff Showcasing and celebrating the CGGS community at our annual Fete in October ff Recognising teaching excellence and outstanding contributions to the School 2 3 through our P&F Awards

Our secondary purpose is to fundraise to provide those special extras – supplementary items to enrich the experience of the students at CGGS. Ranging from a grand piano and choral risers in the Junior School, to a sailing dinghy, resuscitation mannequins, speakers for STEM workshops, robotics equipment to extend the EINSTEIN program and develop digital capabilities in our students…and plenty more.

The P&F is comprised of people just like 4 you with children in years Prep through to Year 12. Being on the committee is not With thanks to: 1 Winners of the 2017 P&F Staff Awards – Murray feasible for everyone but we welcome your P&F Association 2018 Committee McKay, Vikki Templeman and Ross Hicks (not contribution be it in hours, cakes or ideas! pictured, Robyn Hetherington) . Get involved; it is rewarding and your Peter Arnaudo, Sue Borgo, Kim Champion 2 The ever-popular used books stall . 3 children appreciate it too. Fete stall showcasing our Junior School Young de Crespigny, Wendy Craig, Gerard Foley, Entrepreneurs Our next AGM is on Tuesday, 12 March 2019. Janice Green, Peter Henson, David Jameson, 4 The Quad buzzing with activity at the Fete . 5 P&F Trivia Night at Yhuuramulum, August 2018 . All CGGS parents and friends are welcome to Lisa King, James Palmer, Nerissa Richardson, 6 Karen Roberts, Vikki Templeman, Gayatri Children enjoying interaction with farmyard attend any meeting at any time throughout animals at the Petting Zoo . the year. See you there! Urologin, James Valentine, Danielle Young 7 Boarders’ Fairy Floss stall . and Heather Yuill. Kim Champion de Crespigny PRESIDENT P&F ASSOCIATION 2018

22 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

80 YEARS OF THE GRAMMARIANS’ GARDEN STALL

A very familiar face at our annual fete is 80 years ago that motivates her to keep Margaret Cornwell (Archer, 1951) who, serving the CGGS community. along with other dedicated Grammarians, “My father, Keith Archer – who was a propagates plants year-round and gets member of the School Board – started them ready for the adored Grammarians’ the garden stall at the annual fete in 1938 Garden Stall. and continued to contribute until I took This year the stall celebrated 80 years over in 1970,” said Margaret. of contributing to the CGGS community These days, fellow Grammarians, Sanchia through the sale of plants at the fete. Glaskin (1965) and Penelope Lithgow

5 It is partly Margaret’s (very) green thumbs (1986) join Margaret to ensure our – she regularly volunteers at the Old community have a wealth of choice when Parliament House Rose Gardens – that it comes to buying plants. We thank them sees her contributing so enthusiastically greatly for their dedication and ongoing year after year. More importantly, it is support of the CGGS community. the family tradition her father started

6

Top: Keith Archer (centre) at the Garden Stall in 1986 . Above: Sanchia, Penelope and Margaret at the 2018 Fete .

7

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 23 LETTER FROM A GRAMMARIAN

I was so lucky at Girls Grammar — teachers like Mrs Hartshorne and Mrs Thompson fuelled and supported my love of books and words. Mrs Tregonning never kicked me out of the library when I forgot to leave. Mrs Virr told me that every country and its people were connected to others. She said the world was about ecosystems, not just land masses. Mr Kent made science relevant to the world so I could care about it enough to (pay attention) and try harder. Mrs Greenwell put the world into its historical context, challenging us to ask what happened in the past that has led us to the present. These are all themes that are in my book, The Barrier. Mr Joyce and Mrs Rose, after I lost my confidence, took me aside and told me I was my own worst enemy and that I needed to learn to be a better friend to myself instead. Mr Joyce also said Hawthorn was the best, forget the rest. Mrs Vandermark Perhaps the greatest things I in Year 5 gave me my first journal and told me to just keep writing. took from Grammar were an Perhaps the greatest things I took from Grammar were an understanding understanding that women that women can do anything, an excitement about learning, and a can do anything, an excitement group of friends who are my family. about learning, and a group of I graduated from CGGS in 1992 and went to UNSW where I studied Law friends who are my family . and Commerce. My friends and I are still wondering why Commerce? I travelled the world for a year and met a lovely boy who would go on to become my husband. This kept me in London for ten years where I worked for an international law firm. In 2010, we returned to my home in Australia where we had our fourth child. In about 2012, I came up for air and started writing my first novel. As my old English teachers may remember, I’ve always loved words. They thrill me. That might seem weird to some, but passionate readers will understand. Writing is my therapy. It is meditation and exhilaration in equal measure. I wrote my first novel, Song of the Sun God, because I felt I had a duty to my community in Sri Lanka and in the diaspora to tell one of our country’s many narratives. This book is my love letter to my ancestors – it is also a gift to my children. I want them to understand where they came from. I think it will help them work out where they’re going. I wrote my second novel to set out my fears for the world if we don’t learn from the mistakes of our past. My work as a lawyer helped me understand the role and limitations of international humanitarian law in conflicts. It also showed me what happens to society when governments subvert civil liberties. To the students of CGGS, I offer the same unsolicited (and unheeded!) advice I offer my four children: Be grateful, be kind, be honest and be brave. SHANKARI CHANDRAN (1992)

SUMMARY OF SHANKARI’S NOVELS Song of the Sun God is a story of three generations of Australian Sri Lankan women and the choices they make to survive Sri Lanka’s brutal civil war. It follows their lives from Sri Lanka to Australia as they flee one home to create another. It weaves together themes of family love, duty to homeland and the moral compromises and consequences of war.

The Barrier is a gripping, near-future thriller that intertwines war, disease, biotechnology and religion. It asks, what would happen to the world if an Ebola pandemic and religious wars converged? Set in the year 2040, a new world order has emerged. The West has built a wall between itself and the East, the movement of people is banned, there is a virus, a vaccine and an apocalypse. But in what order?

24 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey NEWS FROM GRAMMARIANS The Grammarians’ Association Canberra Girls Grammar School DIMITY AZOURY (2006) shared the lead in 2005. She was accepted into The Australian ANNABEL BUTLER (1985) held a solo role in The Australian Ballet’s Production of Ballet in 2008, where she has had the exhibition, Barnacles, at Stella Downer Fine Art The Merry Widow in Canberra in May 2018. opportunity to travel to Paris, London, New in Sydney during August and September 2018. York, Japan, San Francisco and Los Angeles. More of Annabel’s art has been featured in past Dimity Azoury began dancing at the age of Grammar Reports (issues 96 and 101). Annabel Dimity was promoted to soloist in 2015 four in her home town of Queanbeyan, New Butler has exhibited extensively in Australia, following her debut as Baroness von South Wales. She studied for eleven years at as well as internationally in New York and Rothbart in Graeme Murphy’s Swan Lake, the Kim Harvey School of Dance in Canberra across Europe. Her work features in a number and to senior artist in 2017. before moving to The Australian Ballet School of private and public collections in Australia.

Katerina Babajanov . Barnacles #1 (2018) by Annabel Butler .

KATERINA BABAJANOV (2015) has been SARAH COUPLAND (1981) Professor training with the Bolshoi Ballet Academy Sarah E. Coupland is a senior Consultant since 2017 and earlier this year, performed Histopathologist at the Royal Liverpool on the Bolshoi Theatre stage in Moscow, University Hospital (RLUH) and is also Russia – dancing in Don Juan. the George Holt Chair of Pathology at the University of Liverpool, England. Her areas ALIX BIGGS (2012) headed to the University of expertise include Haematopathology, of Oxford to start her Masters in Migration Ophthalmic Pathology and Oncology, Studies in September 2018. She is attending Molecular Pathology, and Biobanking. thanks in part to a Gowrie Scholarship. She leads the Ophthalmic Pathology referral AMY BRADDON (2002) graduated from the service at the Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University of Southern Queensland in 2016 Hospitals which has one of the three referral with a Master of Arts specialising in Editing centres in England for adult ocular tumours. and Publishing. Top: Dimity Azoury (photo courtesy of The Australian Ballet) . She is also Director of the North West Cancer Above: Amy Braddon . Research Centre at University of Liverpool.

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 25 "The main influence school has on me was to not even raise the suggestion that as a woman I should be limited in what I could achieve in life."

Helen Curtis

Professor Sarah Coupland (photo courtesy of Liverpool Ocular Oncology Research Group) .

Sarah recently won the prestigious International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Ophthalmic Pathology Award.

HELEN CURTIS (1982) was awarded the 2017 ACT Women Lawyers Association Woman Lawyer of the Year – Government category. Helen attended CGGS from 1977 to 1982. She was involved in many aspects of school life – sport (hockey, softball, netball, and athletics), debating, ballroom dancing (after school in the old gym), house plays, the school magazine editorial team, Robertson House Captain as well as receiving reasonably good marks. Top: Helen Curtis . “I was pretty chuffed to get voted by my Above: Sally Hirsch . Sally Holbrook . Year 12 peers for the school spirit prize given by the Old Grammarians Association,” “I believe it was in recognition of both and five years in the USA. She has founded said Helen. To this day, Helen is still close my practical approach to helping clients an edtech start-up, Tracker Apps, which friends with girls she met on her first day of as well as the contribution I make to the develops software for schools who use the Year 7: “Many might remember me as Dino development of more junior lawyers. I International Baccalaureate programmes. – a weird nickname that stuck.” have now ended up working in the same The company specifically focusses on At the end of Year 12, Helen applied to study Department my father was in for many apps that support student agency and PE teaching as well as Law – because she years – so some kind of synchronicity!” help students and teachers track skill couldn’t decide what she wanted to do. development. SALLY HIRSCH (CRESWELL, 1995) completed It was her father who suggested that law her Doctorate in Education in 2016 from SALLY HOLBROOK (1997) was awarded with might be the better option for her. the University of San Francisco and moved a commendation at the ArchiTeam Awards Helen feels honoured to have received the to Malaysia with her husband, daughter for her PerfPad project in 2017 and made award for ACT Women Lawyers Association and two dogs in March 2017. Since being the shortlist for the 2018 Houses Awards Woman Lawyer of the Year – Government in Malaysia, she has enjoyed getting to for the same project. Sally established her Category, particularly as these were the know the local community, and experience architecture and interior design practice, inaugural awards for the ACT. tropical living after ten years in Switzerland NORTHBOURNE, four years ago.

26 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

VERITY MCWILLIAM (1994) was appointed also one of the SRC reps for my cohort in students is to, “Pursue what it is you want as ACT Supreme Court Associate Judge in Year 12. " said Katrina. "I was also fairly to do, and to always maintain a degree of June 2017. studious though. I liked doing well in my self-belief. While we all doubt ourselves subjects, especially English, History and from time to time, have the confidence that Verity began at Canberra Girls Grammar Legal Studies”. you can achieve. Trust your own judgement School in Year 5 and continued her schooling and values, and make sure you have fun.” at CGGS all the way through to Year 12. On graduating from CGGS, Katrina went straight to the Australian National GEORGIA O’BYRNE (2012) was awarded From there she went on to complete a University (ANU) where she studied Arts/ 1st Class Honours in Classics from the Bachelor of Arts (Hons I) and Bachelor of Law and also obtained her Graduate University of Queensland in 2017 and Laws at the Australian National University Diploma of Legal Practice. Towards the this year was awarded a University of followed by a Master of International Law end of her time at university, she helped Queensland medal. This recognition is a at the University of Sydney before starting found ANU Volunteers, in part with fellow reflection on the love for ancient history her career at a local Canberra firm. She Grammarian, Jessica Saunders (2007). which was instilled in her at CGGS. practiced at the NSW Bar from 2006 and previously worked as an associate to two “I really enjoyed engaging with the ANU Federal Court judges, a solicitor in the NSW and broader Canberra community in that

Verity McWilliam speaking at the CGGS Founders’ Day assembly, May 2018 . Katrina Marson . Hana Sayers .

Crown Solicitor’s Office and for PwC Legal in way. I then did my legal placement at the HANA SAYERS (2002) was named ACT Sydney and DLA Piper in London. ACT Department of Public Prosecutors Midwife of the Year 2016. (DPP) and went on to become a prosecutor CGGS was delighted to welcome Verity back After receiving her award, Hana was there, most recently as a family violence to the School as the keynote speaker at both featured in HerCanberra’s Women in Work prosecutor. I’m now on secondment at Junior and Senior School Founders’ Day segment, where she talked about what it Legal Aid ACT in the criminal practice.” assemblies in May 2018. was that made her want to study midwifery When asked how she felt about being at the University of Canberra and, what she KATRINA MARSON (2007) was named the awarded the 2016 ACT Young Lawyer of does to support women and families during 2016 ACT Young Lawyer of the Year. the year, Katrina said: “It’s a real privilege. and post pregnancy. When she was at school Katrina says she was There were many stellar nominees and Not only does Hana support and empower always ‘pretty active’ in co-curricular interests. the Canberra legal community has a lot of women to make the most of their birthing talented young lawyers, so I feel honoured.” “I did netball, piano, coxed rowing for a experience, but she also works hard to while. I occasionally did debating. I was Katrina’s advice to Canberra Girls Grammar raise awareness about the benefits of

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 27 skin‑to-skin contact and its ability to GAIL TREGEAR (1957) has written a book titled then that I wanted my next steps to be in increase breastfeeding rates. No Time for Toys, about her ancestor Sarah this area," said Kylie. Thatcher. The book, which was launched at Within only three years of being a midwife “Now, as CEO of Science and Technology the Commonwealth Club on Wednesday, 29 at Calvary Hospital, Hana increased skin- Australia, I’ll be working to lobby and raise August 2018 is available through Xlibris and to-skin contact for a group of mothers who awareness on behalf of all Australian Amazon, among other outlets. often miss out on this: those who’ve had scientists and technologists, and to improve caesarean sections. KYLIE WALKER (1991) is the CEO at Science public understanding of science.” & Technology Australia and in October In addition to this Hana has also been 2017 was named Chair of the Australian When asked what made her choose this working on a project raising money National Commission for the United career path Kylie said that she has always to purchase a Cuddle Cot, a piece of Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural pursued work which is meaningful and in equipment which allows parents to spend Organisation (UNESCO). which she can learn more about the world, challenge herself, try new things, and meet time with stillborn babies to say a proper Kylie had always wanted to be a journalist really interesting people. goodbye. Hana says she instigated training and after leaving school she moved to around how they support these families in a Bathurst to study for a journalism degree at At school she studied all the mandatory very compassionate and sensitive way. Charles Sturt University. After graduating she Science subjects up to Year 10, and then took

Veronica Tamsitt (photo courtesy of UNSW Research) . Gail Tregear . Kylie Walker .

VERONICA TAMSITT (2007) defended her won a cadetship with the ABC and spent the Chemistry and double Maths in Years 11 and 12 PhD at Scripps Institution of Oceanography next ten years in journalism, culminating in (along with double English, Media and Politics). in San Diego on 1 March 2018 and has the federal press gallery where she was the “Although I’ve always been fascinated by returned to Australia to take up a three- national health, medical and science reporter science, I wasn’t actually very good at it. year postdoctoral research fellowship at for Australian Associated Press. Just ask Mr Kent.” the Centre for Southern Hemisphere Ocean “I got a real kick out of reading about Kylie’s advice to current CGGS Research, based in Hobart. medical research, in particular, and knew students – “Don’t be afraid to test new ideas and try new things – and SAVE THE DATE: FOUNDERS’ DAY don’t be deterred if you fail, because AND REUNION WEEKEND failure is a really great learning tool. If you are true to yourself, follow your ff Saturday, 4 May 2019 – Chapel ff Monday, 6 May 2019 – School Tours, passion, work hard and have fun, you Service, School Tours, Reunion Lunch Founders’ Day Assembly, Lunch and can’t go wrong.” and Music Academy performance Badge presentation

28 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey BIRTHS ENGAGEMENTS

ABIGAIL BOETTCHER AMY BRADDON (2002) and (MEADOWS-BATAGOL, 2005) Sean Kearney in August 2017 and husband Richard welcomed in Rome – “It was magic!” their second baby girl, Emmeline said Amy. Jean on 17 September 2016 – a baby sister for Jemima Jane born Right: Amy and Sean . 28 January 2015. Right: Emmeline Jean Boettcher with PHILIPPA CROWTHER (2012) sister Jemima . became engaged to Eliot Bassili whilst on holiday in the USA in TESSA GOUNDAR (O’BRIEN, August 2018. Philippa and Eliot 2005) and her husband Shiv met in Year 12 when they were welcomed their first baby on School Vice-Captains at CGGS 18 September 2017 – Louie and CGS respectively! Michael Goundar. Louie’s middle name is in memory of Tessa’s Right: Philippa and Eliot . dear father who they sadly lost in 2016. "Louie is just the most TANYA GUNASEKERA (2012) is darling little boy. We are very engaged to Joshua Howarth. lucky to have him," said Tessa. The proposal took place on the Right: Louie Michael Goundar . balcony of Lui Bar overlooking Melbourne. Tanya and Joshua DIANA HEMMINGWAY (2004) met in Canberra although both and her husband Neil Jenkins were living in Melbourne at welcomed a baby boy, Julian the time. Alexander in May this year. Right: Tanya and Joshua . Right: Diana and Neil with their son, Julian Alexander .

MEGAN HODGE (KNOWLES, 2001) and husband Anthony welcomed their second child, a boy – Hugh Douglas Hodge on 22 March 2018. A brother for Ella who was born in 2012. Do you have a story to tell? We love hearing Megan is living in Brisbane, and from our alumni and encourage you to share is a primary school teacher at Calvary Christian College. your journey with us. Tell us what being a Right: Anthony and Megan with their Grammarian means to you and how life at the children Ella and Hugh . School helped shape who you are today.

CATHERINE KNIGHT (WAY, Please contact Alumni and Events Manager, Rebecca Turner 2003) and David Knight are grammarians@cggs .act .edu .au or 02 6202 6403. delighted to announce the birth of their son, Bradley David, born Did you know The Grammarians’ Association on LinkedIn and 22 February 2018 at The Canberra Facebook? Join our private LinkedIn group and Like our Alumni Hospital, weighing a tiny Facebook page to keep up-to-date with school news, events 2.845kg. His sister, Alana, now and information. 3.5 years old, is a very doting big sister and the two of them are Facebook www.facebook.com/canberragirlsgrammaralumni always smiling or laughing with LinkedIn Canberra Girls Grammar School each other," said Catherine. Grammarians’ Association Right: Bradley David Knight .

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 29 WEDDINGS VALE

PIP AGNEW (2008) and James Miller married JESSICA RAINBOW (2011) and Billy NICHOLA BENNETT (MCNALLY) 21 January 2017. at Pialligo Estate on 21 October 2017 at Pialligo Bourchier married on the 6 January 2017 at Nichola was a much-loved teacher in the ELC Estate, Canberra. Grammarians Victoria Hone Bundaleer Rainforest Gardens Brookfield and Junior School. She fought bravely after (2008), Olivia Holt (Roberts, 2008), Laura near Brisbane in Queensland. undergoing a lung transplant. A memorial Agnew (2005) and Rebecca Wojcik (2008) for Nichola was held at the Chapel of the were members of the bridal party. Annunciation on 17 February 2017.

Top: Jono Cvetanoski, Victoria Hone (2008), Thomas Top: Nichola Bennett . Miller, Olivia Holt (Roberts, 2008), James Miller, Pip Miller (Agnew, 2008), Robbie Mardus, Laura Agnew Above: Joy Bowerman . (2005), James Hart, Rebecca Wojcik (2008) . Above: Sarah and Julian D'Arcy with their bridal party . JOY BOWERMAN (WATERMAN, 1938) on SARAH D’ARCY (FLEMING, 2006) married 1 December 2016. Joy was the daughter of Julian D’Arcy at Bendooley Estate in Berrima Herbert Roy Waterman, she started at St Gabriel’s at Glebe House in 1926 and was a on Friday, 16 February 2018. They had about prefect in 1938. 90 guests in attendance including four Grammarians in the bridal party: Samantha DEL COLEMAN (CALTHORPE, 1935) on 26 Saals (Fleming, 2002), Nadia Daly (2006), Top: Nic and Olivia Holt with their bridal party . April 2017. One of our school’s first students Susan Healsmith (2006) and Michelle Middle: Billy and Jessica Bourchier . who lived to be 98 years old. Hemmingway (2006). Above: Elizabeth and Trevor Smith . Dell (she preferred Del) was the elder OLIVIA HOLT (ROBERTS, 2008) married Nic daughter of the Calthorpe family, Dawn ELIZABETH SMITH (WILSON, 2008) married Holt at the National Gallery of Australia (1940) being the younger. In 1927, the family Trevor Smith at Gold Creek Chapel, Canberra on 19 November 2016. Her bridal party moved from Queanbeyan to Canberra where on 7 January 2017. consisted of Grammarians Alice Roberts Del, warmly supported by her parents Dell (2004), Pip Agnew (2008) and Lauren Sewell and Harry Calthorpe, attended a new school. (2008) as well as Susie Magin. In 1927, at age eight, Del was an early pupil of St. OLIVIA ORCHARD (2012) married Luke on Gabriel’s in Glebe House, the location of which is now marked by a plaque near Glebe Park. There 18 March 2017. she won prizes for Divinity and Elocution.

30 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

Her main interest and skill was in playing One of the most exciting events of her who was overseas at that time. He came the piano as a private pupil of Irene E. school days was her presentation, along to the School in a time of rapid change. He Kermode (Mrs A.G. McDonald) who gave with thirty-seven others, as a debutante. was instrumental in the formation of the lessons in Eastlake (Kingston). At the age of The ball was held in Parliament House in Gabriel Foundation and in its early growth. nine, Del gained a first class pass in music in October 1934 on the occasion of the visit of In the first six years, the Foundation gave the London College of Music Examinations. HRH the Duke of Gloucester. over one $1 million to the School. For the rest of her life, playing the piano In 1938, after leaving school, she represented He is also remembered for introducing was Del’s great passion. the Old Grammarians’ Association on the superannuation for the staff of the School In 1928 the School moved from Glebe House School Council (Board) which at that time and for the establishment of the School to a new Tudor-style building in Deakin, was chaired by Bishop Burgmann. shop which began to sell new uniforms in followed in 1933 by a change in name to the addition to recycling old clothing. As a prospective bride she attended an Canberra Church of England Girls’ Grammar Desmond is fondly remembered as being very evening class in embroidery given at the School. Del was in Kilburn House and recalls supportive of his staff, arranging meals at his school by Elizabeth Davies. By the time she wearing a red and white tie. home and sending flowers and visiting sick married former Duntroon cadet S.T.G. ‘Dave’ staff. He also allowed full time staff in the In 1935 Del was appointed School Captain. Coleman in 1940, she proudly added hand- business office to have a day off in November The dates of her school attendance, ‘1927 embroidered items to her trousseau. –1935’ were inscribed on an inkwell, a gift to do their Christmas shopping. On a more from the Committee of the CCEGGS to the Jill Waterhouse (1962) amusing note he also sang a lot and talked School Captain. (Del’s niece and god-daughter) very loudly and had red and green lights installed on a toilet in the administration area TIMOTHY CHADWICK on 5 September 2018. so everyone knew when it was occupied. Tim was very involved in the early days of the School’s Rowing Club. He is survived by Desmond also served as President of the his wife Sian and three daughters, Claire Australia-Britain Society (ACT) and as a (1995), Sophie (1997) and Hannah (2000). Trustee of the Australia-Britain Foundation and was instrumental in the construction of ALTHEA DE SALIS (MOUAT, 1934) on 20 Magna Carta Place and its memorial in the June 2017. Loving mother of Adrienne (1961), Parliamentary Triangle. He was associated with Phillipa (1970), grandmother of Kathy Knight many other organisations and in the Canberra (1994) and aunt to Penelope De Salis (1974). community including The Cook Society, St Johns Ambulance, Rotary and the Lords Taverners. SHIRLEY MAY FAULDER (1949) on 31 August 2018 in Yass. Wife of Ben and mother of Bronwyn, Lea, Wendy, Stephen and Fiona. Loving grandmother and great grandmother of their children.

AVM DESMOND HALL CB, CMG, CBE, AFC, KSTJ on 23 April 2017. Desmond was the Business Manager of the School from 1983 until 1992, after distinguished service in the Royal Air Force (RAF). He had adjusted his age and was just 20 years old in 1945 at the

end of WWII). He stayed in the RAF serving Desmond Hall (taken from the 1992 Business Office Above: Del as a student at St Gabriel’s . with distinction in Britain’s nuclear-armed Staff photo) . V Bomber Force and was one of a unique In 1935, the School was only nine years group that flew each of the V-bomber Desmond’s wife Mavis, who was also very old with a total of 86 students from supportive of his many activities and in Kindergarten to the Leaving Certificate. variants, Vulcan, Valiant and Victor, during his role at the School, died not long after In 1935 Del was one of only three listed as the Cold War. Following a period as Air Desmond on 29 July 2017. passing the Leaving Certificate (Year 11), the Officer Commanding, Malta, his final best of her five subjects being English. posting was as British Defence Adviser at An example of service to others, Desmond will the British High Commission in Canberra. be remembered for his kindness, his generosity Along with fellow students, Del helped and his enduring contribution to the School. organise the Treasure Hunt and other Desmond was recruited in England to entertainments at the school fete, an event administer the Gabriel Foundation and David Holmesby that was absolutely essential as a money raiser. was interviewed by a member of the Board CHAIR OF THE GABRIEL BOARD

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 31 CARYL HASLEM OAM on 6 May 2018. Caryl after Sophie graduated, accepting a position was a very familiar face at Girls Grammar in as Foundation Executive Director of her old REUNIONS the 1970s and 1980s. school Shelford in Melbourne in 1995 to establish its foundation. CLASS OF 1968 Vivacious, intelligent and enthusiastic, she Caryl is survived by John; Emma and her As part of Founders’ Day weekend activities left an indelible mark on the school. children – Thomas, William & Harry; in May 2018, an excited group of 23 women Caryl’s association with the School began Benjamin and his children – Barnaby & from the class of 1968 met in the foyer of when her and husband John’s youngest Edward; and Sophie and her children – Canberra Girls Grammar School for their 50 daughter Sophie (1989) attended the pre- George, Arthur & Alice. year reunion. school on Grey Street, Deakin, in 1975. Benjamin Haslem Three years later, oldest daughter, Emma JAYSON HINDER (1981) on 30 April 2017. Loved (1985), commenced in fifth grade. In 1980, husband of Lisa. Loving father of Madeleine, Sophie returned in third grade, having Nigel and Oliver. Much loved son of Colleen. attended the infant school at nearby Canberra Grammar School. Both sisters BERYL LIBBY on 20 April 2017 in Canberra. continued at CGGS until the end of Year 12. Beryl was a Teacher of Divinity, Commerce, Secretarial & Computing at the School Caryl took a very active interest in her between the years of 1968 and 2000. She daughters’ schooling, joining the Parents was the Head of Kilburn from 1984. and Friends Association, later becoming its first woman President. She then joined the School Board, heading its Strategy Jane Bennett, Rosemary Brewster, Christine Hart (Stuart), Rhondda Dickson and Verona Burgess at 1968 Committee, and becoming a driving force Reunion, May 2018 . behind the Gabriel Foundation.

Her efforts led to her being the School’s In our day it was a much smaller school it representative on the ACT Chapter of the was then – the archival photographs of our National Council of Independent Schools two year groups showed a year group of and then ACT representative on the about 50 girls. Most recognized each other National Body. She also strongly supported quickly and there was a mixture of laughter the foundation of Radford College. and tears.

We enjoyed morning tea and a lovely Jean McLennan at 2015 Founders’ Day Lunch . welcome from the Principal, Mrs Anne Coutts. A tour of the school followed with our charming Girls Grammar guides. Those JEAN MCLENNAN (SHEPHERD, 1939) on 24 who were boarders relived their boarding April 2017. Mother and mother-in-law of days with a tour of the Boarding House. Stewart and Lesley, Ian and Pamela. We were amazed at how the school had Grandmother of Jack, Austin and Claudia. grown and developed and we felt that the Sister and sister-in-law of Bob and Roma. young women attending the School today RAE OLSEN (GREENWOOD, 1942) on are given every opportunity to pursue their 12 June 2017. ambitions and live their dreams, whatever Caryl Haslem OAM . they may be. After the tour we headed off to FREDA WHITLAM (1936) on 30 May 2018 University House at the ANU for our reunion in Sydney, aged 97. Sister of former Prime lunch complete with speeches, toasts, and Her input and enthusiasm were recognised Minister Gough Whitlam, Freda attended beautiful food. Photographs and other when she was awarded the Medal of the Canberra Girls Grammar School and later memorabilia were displayed and Susann Order of Australia (OAM) for service to became a French teacher at the School. Morgan (Lambert) provided a beautiful Education and the Arts in 1990. celebratory cake complete with the school Caryl’s family was well known at the School. logo. The highlight of the event had to be Her husband John – the Federal Member the meeting up with old classmates and the for Canberra 1975–1980 — was also on the sharing of past stories and reminiscences Gabriel Foundation Board. including one from a former student who had been a boarder since the age of six! Caryl’s passion for education continued

32 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey

Chapel service followed on the Sunday CLASS OF 1978 CLASS OF 1998 morning and then most of us re-assembled for school assembly on Monday where There was a lot of chatter as twenty or so On Saturday, 19 May 2018, 42 members we listened to an inspiring speech from members of the Class of 1978 explored the of the Class of 1998 reunited for a tour of another former ‘old girl’. School after having left 40 years ago. Some the School, followed by a lovely evening at changes were applauded, others were not, We headed off, rather rowdily – and with Hotel Realm. but all agreed the School had changed and gentle threats of being put on detention if we grown so much. There was lots of laughter It was wonderful to catch up with friends didn’t behave – and enjoyed a light lunch at as we remembered teachers, events and and to reconnect with others we hadn’t seen the new Girls Grammar facility, Yhuuramulum

Members of Class of 1978 at their reunion tour of the School . Class of 1998 reunion celebrating at Hotel Realm .

buildings (in particular, the freezing old for many years. There was much reminiscing science labs and the old PE showers where of adventures had, times past and plenty of the Chapel now lives). We also had the chatting about what we’ve all been up to for opportunity to visit the Boarding House and the past twenty years. On the same day, a saw how much more comfortable it is now. few of our classmates who live in the United That evening the noise was even greater Kingdom met for lunch in London and as nearly 50 not-so-old-girls met at The celebrated the milestone from afar. Ottoman for great food, much talk and Top: Letty Lees (Hallam), Barbara Swinbourne (Pryce) and Judy Laity . reminiscing (and a drink or two). Social Above: Christine Hart (Stuart), Julie Colman (Overall) and media has made it so much easier to keep Christine Thearle (Davidson) . in contact (in our day, computer studies involved paper cards, lead pencils and a (well, we didn’t have anything like that in trip to a giant computer at the ANU). Many our day!). We received our commemorative who were unable to attend still made badges and again spent time with our friends. contact and shared their news with us on We would like to extend our thanks for a our reunion Facebook page. It was a most wonderful weekend to Mrs Coutts, and enjoyable evening. Rebecca and Laura from the Community Relations office. We would also like to extend Thank you to the organisers and to CGGS for our best wishes for the future to all the girls welcoming us back, we look forward to our at Girls Grammar and especially those in Year 50th reunion. 12. We look forward to welcoming you as the new group of ‘old girls’! Jane Turbayne (1968) evolution of Burrawi and how far we have austerity measures, which makes sense come in recognising students' achievements. given it was during and after World While undertaking research for the collection, War II. However, if you have any more BURRAWI we discovered quite a few gaps in the information about why these issues were Every edition of Burrawi is now on display publication of Burrawi since its inception in not printed, please do let us know!

outside the Multi-Media Theatre in 1934. The missing years are: 1943, 1945–1950 Top: Cover of Burrawi 1992 featuring student the Gabriel Centre at the Senior School and 1955–1958. The reason as to why those artwork by Adrienne Firth (1994) . campus. The installation shows the years were not published seems to be Above: Cover of Burrawi 2006 .

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 33 ARCHIVES

Following our 90th Anniversary in our collection and we need your help to Bishop Gordon Arthur: Canon Robertson: celebrations in 2016, a gallery of past complete our gallery. If you, or someone 1961 . 1935–1936 . Chairs of the School Board has been you know, have a photo of the following installed in the Senior School Boardroom. past Chairs, please contact me via email ff Mr Kenneth Henry Oliphant: 1953 If you have a spare minute, please pop archives@cggs .act .edu .au ff Mr Piggin: 1957 into the Administration Building to have a ff Dr Dickson: 1948 – 1951 ff Mr R S Swift: 1974–1977 look. Unfortunately, there are some gaps ff Mr Andrews: 1952 ff Reverend Neil R Edwards: 1978–1982

into the depths of Archives and uncovered a It is a good idea to test a small section of tape CONSERVATION TIPS Canberra Church of England Girls Grammar to see if it responds to this treatment method HOW TO EFFECTIVELY REMOVE OLD, School Balance Sheet from 1954 that had – the tape should become more ‘gooey’ with the application of heat and should come YELLOW AND DAMAGING STICKY TAPE some tape along the edge. Even though the tape was not damaging any text or images, away from the paper without lifting any of IN YOUR OWN HOME it is still important to remove it. the surface. If you seem to be lifting fibres or One of my most frequently asked questions layers of paper with the tape then another Step 1 from members of the community is how method of removing .the tape is necessary. All we remove sticky tape from documents. Depending on where the tape is, and the other methods involve solvents and should Conservators use a number of methods to fragility of the document, I use a hair dryer not be attempted at home. remove sticky tape and one of the most set to warm, or therapeutic pads that Step 2 effective methods can be attempted at can be heated in the microwave. Keep a To remove any adhesive residue left behind, home. Many self-adhesive tapes are heat distance of approximately 15cm from the use crepe rubbers or gum erasers. These sensitive and will release from the page yellow-taped section of the document and rubbers are available from conservation more easily when heat is applied. move the dryer up and down the tape until and art supplies stores like Eckersley’s. Use small circular motions to ‘ball’ the adhesive It was difficult to find examples of any it starts to activate, about ten seconds. Use residue and then lift it from the document. documents in the Archives where sticky a scalpel, or a plastic spatula, and carefully tape was evident (we try to remove it lift the tape away from the document Unfortunately, even when you can remove the immediately), which is wonderful! I delved Before you start – test a small area first . tape carrier and adhesive, a stain will often remain. These stains are a disfiguring reminder of the evils of sticky tape as a method of repairing precious documents. It is always better to leave a page torn than to repair it with sticky tape. Place the pieces in a plastic sleeve until you can get them properly repaired by an expert. If you need help removing sticky tape or would like to know more, please do not hesitate to contact me on the details opposite. 2 If there is a particular conservation issue you would like to see explained in the next issue of the Grammar Report, please let me know. Alternatively, if you would like to see me privately about an issue plaguing your own collection, I am more than happy to help – please do get in touch.

1 1954 Balance Sheet prior to conservation work . 2 Yellowed tape before treatment . 1 3 3 After treatment .

34 | GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 CELEBRATING the Journey THANK YOU

Thank you to the following people for their help in identifying all the girls in the 1969 Form 6G photo which featured in the last issue of Grammar Report: ff Janet Ilchef (Campbell, 1969) ff Annabel Ochiltree (McFarlane, 1973) ff Catherine (1977) and Rosemary (1969) Hook ff Alison Brown (1969) ff Ann McGonigal (1974)

Here is Form 6G of 1969 with all the names, thank you for all your help!

Back row – Christine Button, Marian Currie, Janelle Christian, Suzanne Gee (dec), Katy Form 6G in 1969 . Jones, Vicky Berry-Smith, Claire Gidley-Baird Middle row – Leigh Elliot, Linda Boreham, Sally Bannerman, Alison Brown, Debbie As always, if you have anything you would Amalta Sahay Cramp, Jane Ballard, Suzanne Heatley like to donate to the Archives, either as a ARCHIVIST past student or a member of our community, Front row – Mary Green, Jenny Hoare, Phone: 02 6202 6457 (8:30am – 3:30pm) please do not hesitate to contact me. Marilyn Hughes, Marianne Henchman, Email: [email protected] There are many gaps to fill in the School’s Tessa Frazer-Oakley, Lindy Hardcastle, colourful history – any artefacts or photos or Janet Campbell memories are greatly appreciated. Absent – Form Mistress, Mrs Shaw (then Deputy Principal)

Additional thanks to the following people who have recently donated various artefacts to the Archives: ff Charlotte Harper (1989) for her donations of the Record Books ff Margaret Cornwell (Archer, 1951) for the brown brief case, newspaper articles, photos and tidbits only she can find! ff Carolyn Wilson (Hick, 1990) for her donation of her school uniform and various Burrawi ff Jillian Smith (Swan, 1972) for her donation of one of two Grammar Reports missing from the Archives, Issue 76 ff Janice Polak (Ginn, 1958) for her donation of both the missing Grammar Reports! We now have a complete set in the Archives ff Yvonne Fetherston for donating her daughter Julia’s (2004) prize books CAN YOU HELP? ff Nicki Vance (1977) for donating uniforms and a Robertson poster from her time as UNIDENTIFIED GIRLS 1955 CHOIR Sports Captain This is the 1955 Choir pictured with Miss Burilda Millett, a Music and Choir Teacher at ff Ros Lindsay, former Head of Boarding CCEGGS from 1941–1957. We have a couple of names, however, it would be lovely to 1997–2006, for donating the CCEGGS put a name to all the faces. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Boarders’ Recipe Book 1995

GRAMMAR REPORT No. 104 | 35 Canberra Girls Grammar School Melbourne Ave, Deakin ACT 2600

T: 02 6202 6400 | F: 02 6273 2554

CRICOS provider No. 01294F ABN 67 008 559 331

CGGS.ACT.EDU.AU